Checking Tow Light Wiring Fuse on 2020 Toyota Highlander

Updated 06/02/2026 | Published 08/26/2020

Question:

Easy connect, good fit, but no power to the flat four. No action on voltmeter on any of the 3 circuits when vehicle lights on. Thought it was great that my 2020 Highlander had the connector behind the bumper but......

asked by: Bruce D

Expert Reply:

The most likely issue is a blown or missing fuse for the trailer lighting. Locate the fuse panel under the hood, on the driver's side, near the fender. Your Owner's Manual can additionally provide you a picture of the location and instructions for opening it. Locate position 15 in the panel and determine if the fuse is missing or blown. I have attached a picture showing the location of that fuse in the panel.

expert reply by: Les D

click to enlarge

Marlin

5/30/2025

The fuse box is not numbered as advised. The owners manual has no useful information about fuses , nor is the any tlr turn (left or right) ,nor trl light, trl stop abb on under hood fuse box cover. Nothing helpful or bad fuses. Checked factory connector under rear bumper and found no vdc. Geesh! How about a bread crumb of real useful information Toyota!

Paul M.

4/25/2026

@Marlin. The trailer harness has a fuse too. Pull out the cup by older on the driver's side in the rear compartment of the vehicle. You should find a small black box floating around in there. Check the inline fuse. I can't add a photo or I would.

Brandon

6/2/2026

@PaulM that would be appreciated,(Im having the same issue as the OP) as I just had the whole compartment casing off, and couldn't find the "small box floating around". I found the green towing module connected, but nothing in or around it resembling a floating black box... Any help is appreciated.

James D.

6/2/2026

@Brandon On the 2020 Highlander the inline fuse holder is typically located behind the driver's side rear interior trim panel near the factory tow wiring module. It's a small black fuse holder attached to the harness and can sometimes be tucked behind the trim, foam insulation, or wiring bundle rather than "floating around" freely.