What Modifications to Rear Fascia of 2009 Toyota Highlander Need to be Made to Install Hitch

Question

Question:

I want to purchase and install myself a trailer hitch for my 2009 Toyota Highlander. Im having trouble researching the rear bumper modifications, if any. There is a small panel that snaps into the rear bumper in that area. Will I need to purchase that filler as well? Some pictures show the hitch below the bumper? Im looking for exact fit requirements for my 2009 Highlander Sport 4x4. I want the fit to be at the same height as factory, not several inches lower to clear the bumper. Thanks

asked by: Tom H

0

Expert Reply:

For your 2009 Toyota Highlander there will be a few modifications to the rear panels at the rear of vehicle. When you install the Curt hitch part # 13534 you will need to remove the tow hooks and you would either need to modify the panels under the vehicle or leave them off all together.

I attached pictures that show how the panels would get modified plus an install video for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jameson C

0

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Answer 1

The etrailer brand #e98858 Class III hitch is indeed a fit for all models of the 2013 Toyota Highlander. There aren't any fit exclusions. According to the installation instructions which I've linked for you, the passenger and driver's…

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Answer 2

Yes, your full-size 19 inch spare tire will be able to remain in place, and the etrailer hitch will indeed fit your 2013 Toyota Highlander with that size spare. The correct part number for your Highlander is the following: - etrailer Trailer Hitch…

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Answer 3

Both the Curt Trailer Hitch, #13534, and the Draw-Tite Hitch, #75726 for a 2008 Toyota Highlander will install in very much the same way. I have included installation instructions for both hitches below for comparison. I have also included video…

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Answer 4

I would be happy to help you. I have a hitch for you but Draw-Tite's parent company is being bought out (3/07/2023) so their inventory is low or nonexistent which explains why you can't find that hitch. Instead you will want the etrailer…

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Answer 5

The carrier I recommend is the etrailer, part #e98873, because it's lightweight but still has a 500 pound capacity. This makes it easier to mount into a trailer hitch and also takes up less of the vehicle's available tongue weight as well.…

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Answer 6

For your 2008 Toyota Highlander we have an etrailer hitch that is a confirmed fit that allows you to keep your full size spare with the part #e98858 but the #e98901 that you referenced was designed for a different vehicle so it would not work for…

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Answer 7

Other than the fact that the Curt #13534 uses a gloss powder coat finish and the etrailer.com brand #e98858 hitch uses a matte finish powder coat, there's no difference between the two hitches. Curt manufactures the etrailer.com brand hitches for…

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Answer 8

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 9

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Answer 10

According to Blue Ox, it'll take an experienced installer about 4 to 5 hours to complete the installation of their #BX1128 Base Plate Kit on a 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The install isn't what I'd call super-difficult, but the installation…

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Answer 11

The main difference between the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part #C13416 and the EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver part #EH97FR is that the EcoHitch has a completely hidden cross tube whereas the Curt cross tube will be visible from the rear of…

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Answer 12

Hi David! There are quite a few hitches offered for your 2026 Honda Odyssey, so I definitely understand wanting to know the differences. There are basically three styles available for you and I have them broken out below: Exposed Crosstube: etrailer…

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What Modifications to Rear Fascia of 2009 Toyota Highlander Need to be Made to Install Hitch

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