Trailer Hitch Recommendations for a 2005 Toyota Highlander

Updated 05/06/2020 | Published 04/11/2010

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(173)

$225.16

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(297)

$56.77

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(739)

$237.77

1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs

(2619)

$12.45

2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs

(1358)

$12.80

Curt Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 3/4" Rise, 2" Drop - 8-1/4" Long - 7,500 lbs

(3838)

$30.91

Question:

It seems from the pictures that the draw-tite clears the bumper. How far out does it stick? Is this spec the same for all three Highlander hitches offered?

asked by: Brendan

Expert Reply:

On the 2005 Toyota Highlander, the available hitches all clear the bumper and stick out past it about 4 inches, The Draw-Tite (75153) and Curt Hitch (13530) in this case are actually very similar, so it will look the same.

Both hitches have the same basic specifications. They are all Class III hitches with 2 inch receiver openings. The Curt # 13530 is rated for weight distribution, with a 4000 lb GTW and a 400 lb TW rating, while the Draw-Tite model is not rated for weight distribution.

I recommend the Curt Hitch, # 13530, because of its economical price. Use this hitch will Ball Mount, # C45010 and hitch ball # 19260 (1-7/8 inch) or # 19247 (2 inch), depending on your towing needs.

For wiring, I recommend the Tow Ready Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring, # 118413. This is a T-one style harness that plugs in line with your vehicles taillights and provides a 4 pole at the rear of the vehicle.

I have included instructions for the Curt Hitch and the wiring below, as well as an install video that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Michael H

Peter M.

5/3/2020

Can a 2005 work on a 2007 highlander hybrid when dealing with trailer hitch frame installs

Chris R.

5/6/2020

The same trailer hitches designed for the 2005 Toyota Highlander are also a fit for the 2007 Highlander, as long as it's not the Hybrid model. If you're making this switch and just need new hardware, you can use part # RHK.