Trailer Hitch For Use with Hitch Bike Rack on 2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE Hybrid AWD

Updated 04/11/2017 | Published 04/10/2017

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(1495)

$159.07

Hitch Reducer 2" to 1-1/4" Trailer Hitch Receiver

(251)

$79.86

Question:

I have a 2016 Rav4 XLE Hybrid AWD. I want to install hitch to carry my bikes. What kind of Hitch I should look and how much it will cost? Is it possible to install by self? or does Toyota offers to install them with only labor charge if i buy it from you? I was to be efficient and economic because when I inquired with Toyota for overall cost for parts and labor they quoted me for $950 around.

asked by: Ravi C

Expert Reply:

Hitches, like most other optional items available from an auto dealer, can be sourced for a lot less money through an aftermarket manufacturer. The hitches we offer for your 2016 RAV4 Hybrid, all shown on the linked page, cost a lot less than what you were quoted. These aftermarket hitches are every bit as strong as reliable as those provided by auto makers and in many cases they are the same product just unbranded.

Of the available options I recommended the 2-inch etrailer Class III hitch # e98864. Many customers choose to handle the hitch installation themselves, or they may have a trusted local mechanic install it. The process on your car is NOT very difficult. You can refer to the linked instructions to see the process and the tools required. The linked video showing a 2016 RAV4 will show you the step by step installation. An experienced installer should need no more than 30 minutes. Depending on your local shop's hourly labor rate it might be well worth having them handle the install.

If your bike rack has a 1-1/4-inch shank you can use a hitch reducer # HT02 to allow it to fit in the 2-inch Draw-Tite hitch.

If you would like a recommendation for a bike rack please advise the number of bikes to be transported and what type they are, such as electric bikes, mountain bikes or beach cruisers, etc.

expert reply by: Adam R