Retrofitting a trailer coupling: the little hook with the hook
In the end, they usually don't pull trailers at all, but hold bike racks: towbars are in demand, add value - and retrofitting is not magic if you know what to look out for. Here is the information and whether the hook needs to be removed when not in use.
First things first: In Switzerland, a retrofitted trailer coupling (towbar) must be registered in the vehicle registration document. Carrying any towbar documents with you is not enough! It is therefore advisable to entrust the selection and installation to a specialist company. This reduces the risk, as the towbar and socket must be type-approved and suitable for the vehicle. A garage that is authorized to carry out so-called self-acceptance is ideal - because it carries out the checks itself and no separate presentation to the MFK is required. The cantonal road traffic office or the regional section of the AGVS car trade association can tell you which garages are authorized.
Retrofitting abroad is suboptimal: It is often debated that it is cheaper abroad - at first glance. But there is often a catch to the supposedly low price. Firstly, the towbar still has to be checked and registered in Switzerland. Secondly, the retrofit must be declared in advance as "active refinement" at foreign customs on the outward journey. On the return journey, the retrofit must then also be declared at Swiss customs without being asked. The foreign VAT will then be refunded, but Swiss VAT will be due. With fees, expenses, time and MFK, this is often hardly worthwhile.
Does the tow bar have to be removed when not in use? Fixed towbars of course not. However, detachable or retractable towbars must be removed when not in use. "Depending on" means: generally not. But if it is in the vehicle registration document, then yes. And also yes, if it is not stated in the vehicle registration document, but the trailer coupling covers parts of the lights or the license plate - ignorance is no defense against fines. So take a close and self-critical look. By the way: A protective cover for the ball head is not mandatory. But it is recommended to prevent rust and bruises on the rail legs.
