Hitch and Cargo Carrier Recommendation for Compatibility with a 2009 Toyota Sienna

Updated 06/21/2011 | Published 06/17/2011

Products Featured in This Question

17x46 Curt Cargo Carrier for 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Steel - 500 lbs

(1099)

$178.59

Reese 60x24 Hitch Cargo Carrier for 2" Hitches - 500 lbs Capacity - Glossy Black

(1165)

$331.63

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

(847)

$199.95

Question:

We are moving our daughter to college and need more space! Will this unit work with a 2009 Toyota Sienna mini van? If so, any advice on getting the trailer hitch installed? If not, what product would you recommend?

asked by: Bill

Expert Reply:

For your 2009 Toyota Sienna Minivan I would recommend a cargo carrier with a raised shank to help eliminate dragging the carrier when going through dips at steep entrances to driveways and over large speed bumps. The carrier you selected, while very economical, has a straight shank and could cause damage to the carrier, contents, hitch or vehicle frame on a vehicle that requires a low hitch like the Sienna.

I would recommend the Pro Series Hitch Cargo Carrier, # 63153, which is slightly larger, has a raised shank for clearance and is designed for a 2 inch hitch, which is what is available for the 2009 Sienna.

Installing a trailer hitch can be done fairly easy on the Sienna if you are so inclined. I would recommend the Curt Class III hitch, # C13105. The installation of this hitch does not require drilling and there are weld nuts located in the vehicle frame to accept the hitch bolts. There is some trimming that needs to be done in the underbody plastic panel. This trimming can be accomplished with a dremel and cutoff wheel, saber saw, or aviation shears.

It takes an experienced installer approximately 40 minutes to install this hitch, so you should be able to get it done in an hour or so. I have added links to some tips on cleaning weld nuts and installing hitches for you to review as well as a video of a hitch installation on a Sienna.

If you would like to have the hitch installed, a local garage would most likely be happy to do the installation for a nominal fee and will have a lift to make the installation easier.

expert reply by: Robert G