Trailer Hitch Receiver Recommendation for 2013 Toyota RAV4

Updated 04/29/2015 | Published 04/28/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"

(259)

$203.80

etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches - 7,500 lbs

(1382)

$95.20

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

(911)

$187.17

Question:

Hi I have a 2013 Rav4 and was told by a dealer that only a class 1 hitch is supported. I thought this was a class 1 hitch but now this forum is making me think its actually a class 2, anyway, does it matter if my Rav was manufactured in Asia or North America? Also 1 1/4 inch 2inch etc....what is most appropriate for a small trailer for this Rav4? Thank you

asked by: Deb

Expert Reply:

We do offer a few different trailer hitch receivers for the 2013 Toyota RAV4, one being the Class II hitch, part # C12108, that you mentioned. I have included a link to all of these options for you.

My personal recommendation would be to go with a Class III hitch, like the Curt, # C13149, because it offers the 2 inch receiver opening. A 2 inch hitch typically gives more options by being compatible with more hitch mounted accessories.

Just a couple of things to keep in mind. All of the products we carry are for vehicles which were designed for the US market. As long as your RAV4 was purchased in the US or Canada, it really won't matter where it was manufactured when it comes choosing a hitch. Although the hitch that I have recommended, # C13149, has a towing capacity of 3,500 lbs you will more than likely be limited by the towing capacity of the RAV4. This information can be obtained in your owner's manual.

Since you plan on doing some towing I have included an article that covers the steps to choosing the correct ball mount for your set-up. You might be interested in etrailer ball mount kit # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts; one with a 3/4 inch rise or 2 inch drop and one with a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop. It also includes a 1-7/8 inch ball, 2 inch ball, hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag.

If the ball mount kit does not have the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, I have also included a link to additional ball mount options for you.

For trailer wiring, take a look at the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector, # 118578.