Heavy Duty Trailer Hitch and Wiring Recommendation for 2014 Toyota Highlander with Full Size Spare

Published 12/12/2019

Products Featured in This Question

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

(1349)

$216.94

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(942)

$46.68

Mounting Bracket 4-Pole Flat

(6105)

$9.66

Curt Towing Starter Kit for 2" Hitches - 2" Ball - 3/4" Rise, 2" Drop - 7.5K

(782)

$76.37

Question:

Okay, you have told me which category 3 hitch is right for my 2014 Toyota Highlander. I would like to know which category 4 hitch would be correct and accommodate a full size spare tire? I fully understand that my car is limited in towing weight but I always prefer to install the largest capacity possible.

asked by: Edward M

Helpful Expert Reply:

I looked up the online version of your owner's manual, which states that a 2014 Toyota Highlander without a tow package and with a V6 engine, is limited to a maximum allowable gross trailer weight of 2,000 lbs. The tongue weight (TW) should not exceed 9-10 percent of this, so around 200 lbs. Vehicles with a 2.7L L4 engine are limited to 1,500 lbs instead.

Class III and IV trailer hitches both feature a 2 inch receiver, however class IV hitches are categorized this way because of their increased weight capacity. We only have class 3 hitches available for your Highlander.

With that in mind, the hitch I recommend is the etrailer Class III # e98844. Although this hitch is rated for 6,000/900 lbs, you will be limited by your vehicle's capacities listed earlier. This hitch is a confirmed fit for your full size spare tire, as long as it is not on the aluminum rim. It also includes all the necessary hardware for installation.

For a wiring harness, I recommend # 118449, which is designed for your Highlander without a tow package. I suggest picking up a mounting bracket # 18144 to attach to your vehicle.

To complete your towing package, I recommend the Curt Towing Starter Kit # C45534. It includes a ball mount with a pre-torqued hitch ball; hitch pin and clip; hitch receiver lock with keys; hitch cover; and a storage case.

Check out the installation videos for the above products I included for you at the bottom of the page.

expert reply by: Carla M

click to enlarge

Edward M.

12/12/2019

Carla M.

12/12/2019

The only Class IV trailer hitch option available for your 2014 Toyota Highlander is the Draw-Tite # DT65MR, which just so happens to be able to accommodate a full size spare tire, like you wanted.