Trailer Hitch Recommendation-2012 Toyota Highlander That Allows Removal of Spare Tire

Updated 08/05/2013 | Published 08/02/2013

Products Featured in This Question

1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs

(2635)

$11.37

2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs

(1362)

$15.49

Curt Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 3/4" Rise, 2" Drop - 8-1/4" Long - 7,500 lbs

(3914)

$31.79

Question:

For a 2012 Highlander hitch, we noticed that it partially covers the spare tire underneath. Given a flat tire situation, would the hitch have to be removed in order to access the spare or can the spare still come out without touching the installed hitch?

asked by: Amy N

Expert Reply:

You will not have any issues removing your spare tire with the Draw-Tite # 75726 installed. I have attached an installation video of this hitch on your vehicle.

You will not have to remove your hitch to remove your spare. In order to remove the spare from your Highlander you need to open the hatch and remove the plastic trim piece on the right side of the interior hatch. There will be a tab to pull back that will allow you to remove the trim piece. Pull out the jack and lug wrench from the storage panel. Pull the carpet back in the hatch to access the nut to remove the spare tire then loosen the nut to bring the tire down to the ground using the wrench found in the storage panel inside the hatch. Pull the spare tire from under the vehicle.

In the picture, it shows you how the spare will look while attached, you will have to lift up on it slightly on the rear edge to clear the hitch.

Installation instructions and an install video have been linked for you.

If you are planning on towing with your hitch, you will also need:

Curt Ball Mount # C45010
Pin and Clip # PC3
Tow Ready 2 Inch Hitch Ball # 63845, or Tow Ready 1-7/8 Inch Hitch Ball # 19260
Tow Ready T-One Wiring Harness # 118449