Can 2005 Toyota Highlander Hitch Be Reused for 2018 Toyota Highlander?

Published 10/16/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness for Factory Tow Package - 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

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

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

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

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Question:

I have one of your hitches for my 2005 Toyota Highlander. Im now buying a 2018 Highlander. Will the 2005 hitch fit on my newer car? Thanks.

asked by: Ned

Expert Reply:

The Toyota Highlander has through two generation changes between your 2005 and your 2018 and some facelifts which means your old hitch is not compatible with your new vehicle. You can really see how much has changed (for the better!) when you compare a 2005 Toyota Highlander hitch like the etrailer # e98857 with the newer 2018 Toyota Highlander hitch like the Draw-Tite # DT65MR.

The hitches for the older models needed to noticeably angle forward and maneuver around the exhaust. It also has a different way of installing to the frame where one side of the hitch is on the inside and the other side wraps around the frame. The pictures of # e98857 really show the creative design of the 2005 hitches.

The 2018 hitches have a much sleeker and straightforward design. Since you won't be able to use your old hitch on your new 2018 Toyota Highlander, I recommend getting the custom-fit Etrailer hitch # e98844. It has a really high towing capacity of 8,000 lbs and 900 lbs tongue weight. It has a sleek round-tube design and a matte black finish which we found works better with hiding scratches and dings.

If you don't have these yet, you can also pick up other towing products like a ball mount # C45534 or wiring harness # 56042 here at etrailer.com.