Trailer Hitch and Wiring Recommendations for a 2016 Toyota Highlander

Updated 03/29/2016 | Published 03/26/2016

Products Featured in This Question

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

(1021)

$236.98

Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class III - Efficient

(874)

$103.83

Question:

I noted the answer re 2015 Highlander and I would assume the 3 hityches identified would be the same on the 2016. I will be pulling a Tent Trailer of about 2100lbs. Perhaps something up to 3500 later on. Which of the hitches would you recommend? How will this affect the 8 in. ground clearance of the Highlander? At what point aside hitch and wiring is a towing packages necessary for this vehicle whose towing capacity is 5000 lbs? Thanks

asked by: C. C

Expert Reply:

The Curt # C13200 hitch that fits the 2015 Toyota Highlander will indeed fit the 2016 Toyota Highlander. This hitch will work well for towing the 2,100 pound tent trailer. The Curt hitch # C13200 is a great choice.

In addition to the hitch and wiring, # 118449 without factory tow package, I also recommend a transmission cooler since towing even a light trailer will put more strain on the transmission so you will want to keep the fluid cool. Cooler # D13503 is one of the more popular options and will help get keep the fluid cooler which helps prevent overheating the transmission.

I also recommend 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, use the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level.

expert reply by: Michael H