Trailer Hitch, Wiring and Bike Rack for 2017 Toyota RAV4

Updated 01/04/2018 | Published 01/03/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"

(259)

$201.88

1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs

(2634)

$11.68

2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs

(1361)

$11.88

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

(1513)

$179.16

Kuat Transfer V2 Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(322)

$549.00

Question:

Looking to outfit my 2017 RAV4 with trailer hitch for small 5x8 trailer and have the option of a bike carrier as well. Your suggestion. Thanks,

asked by: Tim P

Expert Reply:

Two sizes/classes of hitch are available for your 2017 Toyota RAV4, a lighter-duty 1-1/4-inch Class II like # C12108 and a higher-capacity 2-inch Class III type such as # e98864.

We almost always recommend the 2-inch hitch size for their higher weight ratings and since there are many more options in hitch-mount accessories (things like cargo carriers and bike racks) for the larger hitch size. Since you intend to tow a trailer you definitely will be better off with one of the Class III options shown on the linked page.

For its combination of capacity, cost and ease of installation I recommend etrailer # e98864. We even have a complete installation video for this hitch being installed on a 2017 RAV4; this is also linked for you.

If your trailer has lights you will need a wiring harness to power them; you can use the Tekonsha 4-pole wiring kit # 118578. An install video for this item is included for you too.

Towing also requires a ball mount and a hitch ball of the size that matches the coupler on your trailer, which is most likely either a 1-7/8-inch or a 2-inch. (The coupler on the trailer will be stamped to indicate the hitch ball size it fits.) You can use ball mount # C45010 along with either 1-7/8-inch ball # 19260 or 2-inch # 63845. You also need pin/clip part # PC3. The other option is to instead select our all-inclusive Ball Mount Kit # 989900 that includes multiple ball mounts and hitch balls. If you are not certain of the trailer details this is the way to go.

For bike racks you can refer to the linked page to see all Class III hitch rack options. These include hanging-style racks like the Thule Hitching Post Pro # TH934XTR and platform-style racks like the Kuat Transfer # KU74FR. The two included help articles on hitch bike racks will guide your selection based on your bike type, personal preferences and budget.