Parts Needed to Tow Trailer with 2017 Toyota Highlander

Updated 02/04/2021 | Published 02/01/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller - 7-Way Plug-in w/ Bluetooth App - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional

(1821)

$289.95

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

(1371)

$235.49

Question:

Hello! I have a 2017 Toyota Highlander and wanted to know what parts I would need as a tow package. It’s to tow an RV trailer. This is all new to me so just want to make sure we have all we need for towing when we rent an RV. I did search and found the “ etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2” part. But I know I would need more than just that to tow.

asked by: Diana S

Expert Reply:

The etrailer Hitch with 2" receiver # e98844 you mentioned is a great choice to start off, and this hitch comes with a durable powder coat that will help ensure that it stands up to dings and nicks that might otherwise lead to rust. In addition to a trailer hitch, you'll need a wiring harness, ball mount, hitch ball, hitch pin, clip and potentially a brake controller if the trailer you'll be towing has brakes. For the trailer wiring, I recommend using the Tekonsha # 118449 if you'll only need a 4 way connector, or the Tekonsha # 22119 if you'll need a 7 way; a 7 way connector will be required if you're going to be towing a trailer with brakes.

If you'll be towing a trailer with brakes, you'll also need a brake controller; for that I recommend using the Curt Echo # C51180 since it just plugs into the 7 way connector and won't require running any wires into the cabin of your 2017 Highlander. The Echo uses a bluetooth signal to connect to your smart phone (iOS 8.0 or newer/Android 4.4 or newer required) and provides you with proportional braking for your trailer, meaning that the brakes will engage on the trailer with the same intensity as the brakes on the tow vehicle.

To complete your towing setup you'll need a ball mount, hitch ball, hitch pin and clip; something like the # EBMK4 will give you a solution that allows you to tow trailers with 1-7/8" or 2" hitch balls and to tow with either a 4" drop of 2-3/4" rise to help keep the trailer level if needed. This kit also comes with a hitch pin, clip and storage bag, so it's go everything you'd need in one package, to complete your towing setup.

I've linked some review and installation videos of these parts for you to check out.

expert reply by: Erik B