Compatibility of Curt Class III Hitch 13534 on a 2012 Toyota Highlander w/ 19 Inch Spare Tire

Updated 03/23/2016 | Published 03/21/2016

Products Featured in This Question

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

(632)

$220.34

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

(942)

$46.68

Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1

(666)

$15.93

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

(2620)

$12.45

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

(1358)

$12.85

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

(248)

$240.86

Curt Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 3/4" Rise, 2" Drop - 10-1/4" Long - 7,500 lbs

(3838)

$32.99

Question:

I have the 2012 Highlander Limited with the 19 inch spare. Will the Curt 13534 fit this?

asked by: Pat B

Expert Reply:

The Curt Class III hitch you referred to, part # 13534 will work just fine with a 2012 Highlander with the full-sized spare tire, as you can see in the photo I've provided.

If you'll be using the hitch as an attachment point for a bike rack or other hitch mounted accessory, I'd highly recommend going with the Draw-Tite Class III hitch, part # 75726. The Curt hitch warranty stipulates that a stabilizing strap like part # 18050 must be used in order to maintain warranty coverage. The problem is, the strap is an extra expense and many vehicles that have a spoiler at the top of the rear hatch aren't compatible with the strap. The strap could place stress on the spoiler and damage it. The Draw-Tite hitch doesn't require a strap. The Draw-Tite hitch is also compatible with the 19 inch spare tire. I've provided a photo showing both hitches installed on a Highlander. You can see how the hitch sits in relation to the spare tire.

If you'll be towing with the hitch, you can use the following parts to complete your towing system:

Trailer wiring harness, part # 118449
Ball mount, part # D-4
Hitch Pin and Clip, # PC3
1-7/8 inch trailer ball, part # 19260 or # 63845 for a 2 inch ball