Does Bumper Have to Be Removed to Install a Trailer hitch on a 2020 Toyota Highlander XLE FWD?

Updated 11/10/2020 | Published 11/06/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(369)

$276.44

Curt Class III Ball Mount with 2" Ball - 2" Drop - 7,500 lbs

(3966)

$50.08

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

(22)

$75.34

Question:

Does the bumper have to be removed to install the tow hitch? I purchased a 2020 Highlander XLE FWD and we agreed on a price which included installation of the tow hitch. Its been 4 days and it still hasnt been completed. First they needed to find the part. Now that they have the tow hitch

asked by: Kathleen B

Expert Reply:

All of the hitches available for your 2020 Toyota Highlander do not require removal of the rear bumper, including the Curt # C99FR you were looking at. However, there is a plastic underbody panel on the driver's side that has to be removed. Once the hitch is installed, the underbody panel can be left off or trimmed to fit around the hitch and put back in place. You can check out the installation process for this hitch in the video linked below.

If you are looking to tow a trailer with your hitch, you need a ball mount. I recommend the Curt Class III Ball Mount with 2" Ball # C45036. This fits a 2" hitch receiver and has a gross towing weight capacity of 7,500 lbs and a tongue weight capacity of 750 lbs. You will also need a wiring harness. We have the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness # C76CR for vehicles without the factory tow package, or the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # TK74FR for vehicles with the factory tow package.

Check out the videos linked below for more details on these products.

expert reply by: John R