It's easier to do on pre-2011 models. I guess the bumper is softer plastic or something. When my hitch receiver was installed, the guys who did it(friends of mine) did it in two minutes without lowering the Magnaflow exhaust that was already installed. Then they stumbled on something called "instructions", flipped through the new discovery, found it was supposed to have been a 45-minute job, and jokingly asked where I wanted the bumper cut, as apparently that was in the instructions for all Curt hitch receivers that fit the Patriot by then(this was done in maybe 2014). As I understand it, with the stiffer plastic on the lower half of the post-2010 bumper, you'll need a 2-3" slot cut for the receiver, or if you want it subtle maybe you can make it a wide swath cut out just right? Not sure how to avoid this on later models, though somebody else might.

 

I had U-Haul install mine. It is below the bumper, BUT it is very low to the ground. Still not a problem under most circumstances, but when pulling my trailer and I cross the state highway (on a banked curve where my road crosses) it drags. Part of the problem is that my trailer is only 5x8 and low to the ground so the ball-mount has a significant drop (maybe 3") to keep the trailer level. I don't drive around with the ball-mount in normally, so not a problem, but my ground clearance is greatly reduced when pulling the trailer.

 

You don't have to lower the exhaust. A better method is pulling the bumper plastics to get that extra working room. Otherwise, some people say they didn't have to do either method.

The notch being cut is because the plastic dips so low. You can probably squish the bumper fascia up with the hitch to avoid cutting it. It likely won't look very nice though.

Do a search to find other threads with pics of their install methods. Plenty of options!

 

The pre-2011 models don't require cutting since the bumper cover doesn't extend as far down. With the refresh they decided it would look better if the giant muffler was covered instead of wide open.

Install on my wife's 2010 was super easy even with the factory tow hook and its rusty bolts.

To my knowledge there isn't a way to install without cutting on 2011 and newer models.

 

I stand corrected. There is a very slight cut to the black fascia, maybe 1" x 2". Hardly noticeable.

 

I installed the Curt hitch from etrailer on my 2016 2.4L, 6 speed transmisdion along with a tranny cooler. The cut in the rear bumper was so minimal it is not even noticeable. I am pretty particular and only trimmed what was required for a snug fit all around the hitch. Looks fine.