I was a little scared about installing a hitch for my 04 Vibe after hearing all of the problems with removing rust in the bolts on the frame and having to possibly modify the heat shield to get the hitch to fit. I even had my WD-40 spray ready to go to muscle the bolts in but luckily I didn't need to use it. I was surprised how easy it was, I didn't even have to jack up the car and the 4-18mm bolt's went in no problem,ten minute install, maybe because this Vibe has always been in Florida, so I didn't have to worry about salt and grime rusting out the frame bolts. The hitch fit perfectly around the muffler and heat shield, no modifications necessary. I'm very happy with the way it looks, it's barely noticeable and the receiver sits right below the bumper, not any lower than it need to be. I would definitely recommend Hidden Hitch brand Part#60958 if your looking to install a hitch on your vibe. The Hitch also came with a 2" rise ball mount and pin, which is the the right height to tow a small motorcycle trailer from U-Haul. So now I'm able to tow my Scooter to the shop whenever I need to get it serviced. Also, here are some pics drivers side compartment and below the car near the muffler of the install of CURT TRAILER HITCH WIRING T- CONNECTOR 55057 in case your interested. I also used a camera flash bag to keep the wiring that connects to the hitch stored neatly in the compartment when not in use.If you need to buy a Hitch and wiring for it, I would recommend etrailer.com. Cost $145.00 w/Free shipping over $150.00. They responded to my online order in minutes and had it shipped out the same day. Great customer service!
Update... Well I finally got to use my newly installed Hitch for the first time to tow my scooter to the shop to get serviced. I experienced no problems with handling or the hitch. The 2 inch riser that came with the hitch works perfectly with the trailer. The Vibe pulled it without much effort at all. I can't wait till I get to use it again to tow something;-)
I Routed the wire to the battery through a grommet I found in the trunk and ran the wire along side the gas lines that run from the back to the front zip tying the wire every ten inches along the way. And to be on the safe side I protected the wire with plastic conduit that I got from Autozone to protect it from the heat of the exhaust and engine and to make it look like it was factory installed. I used this Video as a guide when I installed the wiringhttp://www.etrailer.com/tv-wir....aspx