Recommended Hitch for a 2022 Toyota Highlander and Why it Won't Work w/ a Weight Distribution System

Published 07/02/2023

Products Featured in This Question

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

(175)

$253.97

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

(562)

$266.78

Question:

Your hitch for the Toyota Highlander Item # e75ZR indicates Hitch does not allow use of weight distribution. Is this a trailer/tongue weight issue or is there another reason it wont support a WD hitch? I like the hidden cross tube, but we have a weight distribution hitch for our 3200 lb fiberglass trailer.

asked by: Steve K

Expert Reply:

The 2022 Toyota Highlander is a crossover which means it was built on a unibody frame. You can't use weight distribution systems with unibody frame because they are not as strong or ridged as standard frames. The stress will be too much and it'll eventually damage your vehicle.

The etrailer Hitch item # e75ZR is confirmed to fit the 2022 Toyota Highlander. It fits both the XSE and non XSE models along with the hybrids. This is a class III hitch with a 2" receiver. It has a 5,000 lbs towing capacity and a 500 lbs maximum tongue weight.

I know this is probably not what you wanted to hear but you will still be able to pull your 3,200 lbs trailer you just can't do it with your weight distribution hitch.

Please note that the hitch will fit models with an 18" or smaller spare tire under vehicle, however larger spare tires will not be able to be stored with the hitch installed. I have linked an installation video below.

expert reply by: Jerred H