Determining If 2018 Toyota Sienna XLE has Factory Tow Package and Recommended Trailer Hitch

Updated 05/07/2025 | Published 10/01/2018

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

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Question:

Does a 2018 sienna xle with a 3.5 have a tow prep package from the factory?

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

Based on my research it looks like the factory towing package for the 2018 Toyota Sienna consists of an engine oil cooler along with a heavy-duty radiator and fan. The factory towing package is standard for the XLE model like what you have. With the tow package the Sienna XLE has a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

In order to tow a trailer you will first need a trailer hitch. For this I recommend the etrailer.com Class III Hitch # e98837. This custom hitch is confirmed to fit your vehicle and will use existing holes in its frame for a no-drill installation. This particular model also has a sleek matte black finish. It has a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds to match your Sienna.

Then for wiring I recommend the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118648. This is a custom harness that will install by plugging into factory ports behind the driver and passenger side tail lights and then running the hot lead up to the Sienna's battery. This will provide you with a 4-Way connector to connect with and power a trailer's basic signal lights. I have attached an installation video that you can use for reference.

To tow a trailer you will also need a ball mount and hitch ball. I have attached a great article that explains how to choose the best one for your setup along with a link that will take you to our available selection.

expert reply by: Chris R

John M.

4/22/2025

Hi, different John here: What about adding the brake controller? Can this be added to a 2018 sienna so that I can operate the electric brakes on the trailer?

Chris R.

4/23/2025

@JohnM Sorry, only one John per page. Kidding. You can definitely add a brake controller to the Sienna. You'll need to upgrade the 4-Way mentioned above to a 7-way using # ETBC7L, and then for the controller itself I really like the Curt Echo # C51180 because it's gonna give you a super easy install. It just plugs into the 7-Way at the bumper and gives you wireless braking through the smart phone app. If you want a more traditional controller, the # ETBC7 paired with the Tekonsha # TK29ER is a solid bet.

John M.

4/23/2025

@ChrisR Thanks Chris! What about the Tekonsha Prodigy RF 902502 (TK94FR). Look like it has even better reviews. :-) What's your recommendation?

Chris R.

5/7/2025

@JohnM The Prodigy RF # TK94FR is super solid. The install is a bit more in-depth since you're actually mounting something to the trailer instead of just plugging it into the 7-Way, but it's really reliable and Tekonsha knows what they're doing. If you're looking for the simplest solution, I still like the Echo # C51180, honestly.