Trailer Hitch Fit Suggested for 2016 Toyota Highlander

Published 03/10/2022

Products Featured in This Question

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

(1347)

$224.33

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

(942)

$53.12

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

(2617)

$11.37

Draw-Tite Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 2-3/4" Rise, 4" Drop - 9" Long - 7.5K

(3455)

$42.09

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

(1356)

$12.56

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

(1018)

$258.91

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

(182)

$248.94

Question:

Im ready to order, but need to confirm which hitch system is best for our 2016 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. Reviews indicate the Curt products have weaknesses and faults, and a history of breaking. Thats not what we wanna go for. Can you help?

asked by: Kristian M

Expert Reply:

I am not aware of any instance where a trailer hitch properly installed on a Toyota Highlander has been broken or bent. As long as the 5000 lb towing capacity/500 lb tongue weight of the # C13394 or the 6000 lb towing/900 lb tongue weight capacity of the # C13200 hitch isn't exceeded, the hitch will not bend or break.

Of the available options, I'd recommend the Curt # C13394 or the etrailer brand # e98844 that you'd looked at. Both hitches are manufactured in the US, but I'd lean toward the Curt # C13394 because once installed the hitch will be mostly concealed behind the bumper. All that will be visible is the receiver tube and the safety chain hoops. The etrailer brand # e98844 would be fully exposed as shown in the provided photo.

The only fit caveat is if your spare tire is mounted on an aluminum rim, it'll prevent the spare tire from being stored under the vehicle. In this situation, most folks will get a steel rim and have the spare mounted on it so it can remain under the vehicle.

If you'll be towing with the hitch, you'll also need a trailer wiring harness like # 118449, a ball mount like # 2753 and for a trailer ball, use # 19260 for a 1-7/8 or # 63845 for a 2 inch hitch.

I've linked to some install videos that you might find helpful.