Which Coil SumoSprings For 2018 Toyota Highlander 4WD

Updated 08/12/2024 | Published 04/13/2024

Question:

There seems to be a lot of positive reviews for the coil spring helpers. I have a 2018 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD 3.5 Ltr. I tow a 3,500lb trailer and regularly have a measured 350 lb on the hitch in addition to various bits and pieces of camping equipment in the rear that I havent had the courage to weigh. I use the SUV as a tow vehicle for fairly lengthy camping trips, in excess of 1600km and have increasingly noticed how much the rear end is sagging when loaded. I dont know if the helper springs will resolve my concerns but It appears that the CSS-1145R would be the recommended helper spring. One of the customer reviews indicated necessity to upgrade to an 1165 version. So I am just curious if the 1145 is the right choice or if I need to consider something different or even change the Toyota OEM spring hardware.

asked by: Barry K

Expert Reply:

Hey there Barry, thanks for writing in, and I double-checked with the manufacturer and can verify for you the correct Coil SumoSprings for your 2018 Toyota Highlander 4WD (so long as it is not the hybrid version) are the 1145:

- Coil SumoSprings Custom Helper Springs # CSS-1145R

There isn't actually a 1165 version so I can't tell you what the review you mentioned was referring to, unfortunately. These are definitely the right way to go for your Highlander to help shore up the rear suspension as you tow. We have had a lot of Highlander owners use the # CSS-1145R and really like them. They'll do a superb job of helping level you out, which will improve the way your Highlander handles, so you'll really like them.

expert reply by: Kyle S

Barryk

8/9/2024

Hi Kyle, it’s been a long time as my sumo 1145 springs were held up in the US until just recently (not an e-trailer issue). I am now getting ready to install these helper springs and notice in the instructions there is no reference to the install of added plastic tie wraps. In the install videos I have seen tie wraps seem to be an inherent part of the install. Additionally there is no provision to install them without drilling holes that I am sure is not what is intended. Do I presume this latest version does not require tie wraps and that they will stay in place in the centre of the spring pack during use?

Kyle S.

8/12/2024

@Barryk Nice to hear from you again, and glad you got the part. And there is no need for any plastic tie wraps at all and they will indeed stay in place. Now, you most certainly can if you like, and some people do, but it isn't necessary, no.

Barryk

8/12/2024

@KyleS Thanks for clearing that up. I have another question. Under the installation instructions I find a misleading statement, item 7 it states that if the ends are overlapping more than 1” , cut the excess off. I would have thought that installation would be impossible with an overlap. After I completed my install on the rear of the Highlander I found that the helper coil was short by 1-1/4” (a gap between the PU spacer ends) . Although I don’t think this is an issue, I am just curious on the motivation for this. Will report on any ride issues after my next camping trip. Overall I am happy with the install.

Kyle S.

8/12/2024

@Barryk I think it's because these particular springs fit many different vehicles and not just a Highlander, so invariably the springs on some are going to be different and there could be an overlap.