Recommendation And Installation Of Trailer Hitch For 2011 Toyota Highlander

Updated 04/28/2016 | Published 04/24/2016

Products Featured in This Question

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

(635)

$231.93

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

(672)

$17.11

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

(249)

$247.34

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

(1382)

$94.85

Question:

I am considering purchasing the 2011 Toyota Highlander Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver Class III - 2. I have read that the hitch maynot fit some times and this maybe due to bending during transport. Can the hitch be returned and replaced with another in stock hitch if this occurs?

asked by: Jefrey S

Expert Reply:

The Curt Hitch that is designed to fit your Highlander is part # 13534. This is a Class lll hitch and it has a 2 inch receiver opening.

Hitches can at times suffer a little when being shipped but typically result in being a minor problem. Most of the problems are the mounting brackets on the hitch do not line up with the holes on the vehicle frame. Our installers use a 'cheater bar' that looks like a long tapered screwdriver with no blade on the end. They place the bar in one hole to line it up with the hole on the frame and move it so the mounting hardware can be installed in the other bracket holes. It normally does not take much effort to get them to align, but is usually much easier if you enlist the help of someone when installing the hitch.

I recommend the Draw-Tite Max-E-Loader Trailer Hitch, part # 75726. This hitch has the same towing capacity as the Curt hitch but does not require the use of a stabilizing strap like part # 18050 like the Curt hitch does for all non-trailer loads like bike racks and cargo carriers.

If you plan on doing some towing 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 include a ball mount with the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, check out the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level.

You did not mention what you are planning on using the trailer hitch for. I have attached a couple links for some of the products we offer that will work with the hitch on your Highlander. If you have any questions about a specific item please let me know and I can make some recommendations that will work for you.

I have attached a link to our return policy page you can check out.