If you’re looking to add more versatility to your Kia Sorento, the EcoHitch X7484SK is a clean, hidden-style hitch solution perfect for bike racks, cargo carriers, and light towing.

The install is very similar to what we’d perform in the shop and is completely manageable with basic tools and a little patience. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process step-by-step so you can tackle the installation with confidence.

Before You Start

Recommended Tools:

  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Trim removal tool
  • Jack stands or lift
  • Bolt fisher (included with the hitch)
  • Pry tool or exhaust hanger pliers (optional)

Installer Tip: Spraying a little lubricant on the exhaust hangers makes them much easier to remove.

Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle

Before starting the install, safely raise the vehicle to create working room underneath.

  • Using the factory-approved jacking points, lift the vehicle and support it securely on jack stands
  • Lower the spare tire and remove it from the cable during installation

Always make sure the vehicle is stable before working underneath it.

Step 2: Access the Frame & Fish the Hardware

Now we’ll open up access to the frame mounting points.

Remove the Driver-Side Plastic Cover

On the driver side rear bumper area:

  • Remove the plastic cover by:
    • Unclipping the three push clips
    • Unscrewing the plastic nuts

This exposes the mounting area for the hitch.

Lower the Exhaust Slightly

  • Unhook the three rearmost exhaust hangers
  • Allow the muffler to hang slightly for additional clearance

You don’t need to fully remove the exhaust, just enough movement to comfortably position the hitch.

Prepare the Frame Holes

  • Remove the factory plugs from the bottom of the frame on both sides of the vehicle

These holes will be used to fish the hitch hardware into place.

Fish the Mounting Hardware Into the Frame

Using the included bolt fisher:

  1. Place:
    • One 1/2” internal tooth lock washer
    • One plate washer
      onto an M12 bolt
  2. Thread the bolt fisher onto the bolt
  3. Feed the hardware into the frame one piece at a time until the threads hang down through the mounting hole
  4. Remove the bolt fisher

Repeat the process on the opposite side.

Bolt fishing can feel awkward at first, but once you get the technique down, it goes quickly.

Step 3: Raise and Install the Hitch

Now it’s time to mount the EcoHitch.

  • Place:
    • 1/2" split lock washers
    • Flat washers
      onto the six remaining M12 bolts
  • Raise the hitch into position and thread the bolts into the factory threaded frame holes

Depending on the Sorento model, the location of the lower fished bolt may vary slightly.

Secure the Fished Bolts

Install:

  • 1/2” flat washer
  • Split lock washer
  • M12 hex nut

onto the fished bolts.

Torque Specifications

Torque all M12 hardware to:

70 ft-lbs (95 Nm)

Once tightened:

  • Reinstall the spare tire
  • Raise it back into place

Step 4: Optional Plastic Cover Trim

You now have two options for the driver-side plastic cover:

Option 1:

Leave the cover off for maximum clearance and easiest access.

Option 2:

Trim and reinstall the cover for a cleaner finished appearance.

If reinstalling:

  • Trim the raised portion of the cover as shown in the instructions
  • Test fit as needed for proper clearance around the hitch plate

Start with a small trim cut, you can always remove more material if needed.

Installation Complete

That’s it, you’ve successfully installed the EcoHitch X7484SK on your Kia Sorento.

You now have a clean, hidden hitch solution ready for:

  • Bike racks
  • Cargo carriers
  • Light towing applications