What Trailer Hitch and Wiring do I Need for My 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander?

Updated 12/01/2025 | Published 11/07/2025

Products Featured in This Question

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

(28)

$282.01

Curt Mounting Bracket for 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(906)

$1.94

etrailer Ball Mount w/ Pre-Torqued 2" Ball - 2" Hitch - 2" Drop - 10,000 lbs

(447)

$56.45

Question:

Will this block the sensor for the hand-free power lift gate?

asked by: Clayton F

Expert Reply:

Hello Clayton,

We get this question a lot about hitches. There is always the possibility that a hitch can interfere with the hands-free lift gate, but you can typically move your foot to the right or left of the receiver to get it to still work. You’re in luck because we’ve already gotten our hands on a 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander, and we have proof on the product page that the lift gate still functions! I’ve attached a couple of pictures of Jesse showing that you can still use the hands-free lift gate.

Our etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2" # e69ZV is a great fit for your 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander and installs without any drilling required. My favorite thing about our hitches is the matte black finish, which gives it a clean OEM look.

If you need wiring for light towing or for a hitch-mounted accessory that uses a 4-flat connector, you’ll want the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # TK99FR. For a clean, finished look, add the # C42CR mounting bracket and the # 18136 no-drill bracket.

If you plan on towing a trailer with brakes and need a 7-way connector, go with the Tekonsha OEM Replacement Vehicle Wiring Harness w/ Brake Controller Adapter - 7-Way Trailer Connector # TK57VR.

Need a ball mount? Check out our etrailer Ball Mount w/ Pre-Torqued 2" Ball - 2" Hitch - 2" Drop - 10,000 lbs # e99DR. I really like the black nickel coating on this one because it gives it a sleek, modern look.

There are so many uses for a hitch! What do you mainly plan to use yours for, towing, a bike rack, or something else? If you’ll be towing something with brakes, do you already have a brake controller?

expert reply by: Kate F

He Kicks
(click to enlarge)

Lift Gate Opens
(click to enlarge)

Kate F.

12/1/2025

Hey Clayton, how did the hands-free lift gate work out after adding the hitch to your Grand Highlander? It’d be great to know if moving your foot to the side of the receiver did the trick. Your update could make it easier for others wondering about the same setup.