If you are planning to get a hitch bike rack for Toyota Highlander or tow a trailer, you should start looking for Toyota Highlander hitches. Toyota has a trailer hitch accessory for Highlander which works great for specific models. Of all the compatible trailers it looks the best on this vehicle but is it worth the cost? 

In this article, we have reviewed and compared different hitches for Highlander available in the market. You can find the trailer hitches that are compatible with your model Highlander and then buy the one that suits your requirements and budget.

Comparison and Compatibility of Toyota highlander hitches

Find out the best RAV4 trailer hitches. 

Best trailer hitch for a Toyota Highlander

Genuine Toyota highlander trailer hitch|Most aesthetic with best ground clearance  

This OEM Toyota accessory works with 2011-2013 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid models. It beats other Toyota Highlander hitches because it fits perfectly and looks like it is part of the vehicle. While other trailers can be easily identified as an extra structure hanging below the bumper. So it is safe to say that this finish cannot be found in other trailers. 

Secondly, if you go for other hitches, you might face a problem with lining up its holes with the holes on the vehicle. While the holes on the Toyota trailer hitch line up accurately with the rear side of the Highlander. This makes installation easier moreover since everything lines up perfectly there is no need of buying additional tools or drills. 

Since it is fixed at the level of the bumper, there is more ground clearance which allows safer transport of bikes on bike racks.  Other Highlander hitches hang below the bumper so when you install a bike rack, due to low ground clearance you can damage the bikes and rack on a slope. 

This hitch is installed by a wire harness that is beneficial for the vehicle. The trailer is durable because it has an e-coat and a powder coat to prevent corrosion and UV rays damage. Also, you can get the Fascia pieces that match the color of your Highlander model. However, this hitch costs double the price of other hitches and it is suitable only for limited models. 

Curt 13200 | Economical Toyota Highlander Hitch 

This class 3 trailer hitch is made for heavy-duty towing. Like other Toyota Highlander hitches, this one too has a 2” receiver opening and allows you to tow a trailer or bike rack on the back of your Highlander. Since it is designed for Highlander it has a specific fit. 

We like this trailer hitch for two reasons, it does not protrude from the bumper and it costs way less than the genuine Toyota hitch for Highlander. The biggest fear of getting a non-Toyota accessory is that it would ruin the overall look of the vehicle but Curt 13200 looks great on Highlander. Secondly, it costs less than half the price of a Toyota trailer hitch. 

This hitch is made in great quality and has a fine look. It has a glossy black appearance and has a powder coat exterior that protects it from UV and prevents rusting. Unlike most Highlander hitches, this one tucks under the bumper nicely but if not installed correctly, you might face some ground clearance issues. 

Some users complain that the holes in the hitch do not line up with Highlander. So if you face such a problem, you can drill out the accurate holes to install the bolts easily. This usually occurs around the region of the exhaust so you might have to trim a bit. But it fits perfectly behind the bumper and we recommend this economical trailer hitch if you own 2014-2019 Highlander models. 

Curt 13453 | Economical choice for latest models 

Curt 13453 is also among the best Toyota Highlander hitches. It is made for the latest models i.e., 2020 onwards, and has impressive customer satisfaction. More than 90% of the users love it and this beats the customer satisfaction of the genuine Toyota hitch. The main reason is the relatively low price. So if you have a limited budget, Curt 13453 is highly recommended. 

This class 3 hitch is versatile because it works for bike racks, ball mounts, tow trailers, and cargo carriers. So you can use it for multiple towing options. The hitch is quite sturdy and durable. It has a dual-coat finish of rust-resistant liquid and powder coat. All these layers protect the trailer from UV rays and rust. 

Most users complain that the hitch is difficult to install. Firstly, it is a two-person job so you would need help, especially while lifting it. Other than that, there are plastic pieces on the underside that have to be cut. This would require a cutter or a mini saw. Overall the trailer fits nicely and the bolt holes align. 

Draw-Tite 76439 | Best Class 4 Toyota Highlander Hitch 

The Draw-Tite 76439 is a class 4 trailer hitch for Toyota Highlander. So if you are looking for class 4 Toyota Highlander hitches, this one would be the best. The trailer is fully welded and has a solid and sturdy build. It also resists UV damage and corrosion because of the powder-coated finish. 

The hitch is specifically designed for Highlander and looks good after installation. It has a 2” receiver opening which would let you carry hitch bike racks, trailers, and cargo carriers. Since it has the greatest gross trailer weight you can easily haul a multi-bike hitch rack loaded with heavy bikes. 

Installation is not tricky but, you would need the help of another person. So if you are looking for 2014-2022 Highlander model hitches, you should consider Draw-Tite 76439. Just make sure your vehicle does not have Twin-Tip Exhaust otherwise the trailer won’t fit. 

Draw-Tite 76336

Draw-Tite 76336 is one of the Toyota Highlander hitches specifically designed for this vehicle. You can get it to tow in different ways without a problem. It is a class 3 hitch with a 2” receiver opening. This hitch is sturdy and durable. It will last for years without any harm. This is because it is made with welded steel. This provides great strength to the trailer. 

The Draw-Tite hitches undergo extensive testing and only after meeting the standards, they are introduced to the market. The trailer would not rust or corrode in extreme weather conditions because it is powder coated. The gross trailer weight is less than other hitches but it is still quite useful in carrying a bike rack or towing other stuff. 

You might have to trim the plastic pieces on the underside with the help of a tool but the installation procedure is very easy. You will also find the tools required for installation inside the package. You can use this trailer for numerous Toyota Highlander models but it will not work with the models that have twin-tip exhausts. 

Reese 84336

To assure a flawless fit and excellent towing performance, these REESE Class III Toyota Highlander hitches are constructed specifically for Highlander models. Digital computer designs are both aesthetically pleasing and useful for assessing compatibility with vehicles.  It works for numerous models except for the ones with twin-tip exhausts. 

Each hitch is rigorously tested for strain and stress to survive road damage It is made of solid, entirely welded steel for optimum strength and safety. Additionally, it is shielded by two layers of black powder coat finish to prevent rusting and corrosion. 

In case the pre-drilled holes on the hitch do not align with the bolts, you would require drilling for proper installation. Now, this largely depends on the model of the vehicle and its cuts. You can buy it for $250 which is affordable compared to the original hitch for Highlander. 

How much does it cost for tow hitch installation on a Toyota highlander?

The total cost for installation of a hitch can cost you somewhere between $300-800 depending on the type and brand of trailer. This cost includes the price of Toyota Highlander hitches and the pay for hiring a person to install them on your vehicle. You can buy a trailer hitch for Highlander ranging from $197-450. If you are on a tight budget you can buy the cheaper one and save more if you can learn to install the trailer hitch. There are plenty of videos and user manuals that can help you install it without hiring a professional. 

Toyota highlander tow hitch receiver with towing wiring harness cost

You can get the trailer for around $200-450 and the wiring harness would you an additional $170-190. 

How hard is it to install a tow hitch Toyota Highlander?

Installation of Highlander hitches is not very difficult with a little experience and guidance, you can install it. Follow the steps below for the installation of a trailer hitch on your Highlander. 

• First, prepare the underside of the vehicle for installation. For this, you will have to remove the panel on the driver’s side. Once it is removed, you will have to remove the bracket and bumper pin on the other side.  
• The frame rail of the Highlander would contain plastic plugs which have to be removed. This will create three points for the attachment of the hitch and hence help in weight distribution. And with this, the underside of the car would be ready for installation of the trailer.
• Pick up the trailer and align it with the attachment points on your Highlander. You might need help in this step because lifting the heavy trailer is a two-person job. 
• Now you can install the bolts, washers, and other provided hardware for securing the trailer onto your Toyota Highlander. Tighten them with the help of a wrench or torque hitch unless you are sure that it is perfectly secure. 
• You can re-install the panel removed earlier, but to fit it over the hitch you might need a bit of trimming and adjustment. 

How to use Toyota highlander tow hitch receiver?

You can use the Toyota Highlander hitches by making use of the hitch receiver. Most hitch bike racks require 1.25” or 2” hitch receivers for installation on the back of the car. So if you want to get a hitch bike rack for carrying bikes, you can install it into the receiver opening of the Highlander hitches. Other than that, you can use them for towing trailers or cargo carriers. 

What size hitch receiver is on a Toyota Highlander? 1 1 4 or 2-inch 

Most hitches for Toyota Highlander have a 2” receiver opening which provides greater stability to the towed object. Moreover, Highlander has good towing capacity and usually requires class 3 hitches which are available in 2” receiver openings. If your 1 ¼” hitch bike rack requires a different hitch opening you can get a hitch adapter. 

Highlander towing capacity

What Is The Towing Capacity Of Toyota Highlander?

The towing capacity of the Toyota Highlander varies with different models. The 2022 Highlander has either a 3,500 or 5,000 lb towing capacity. The hybrid models have a relatively low towing capacity. The table below shows the towing capacity of the different 2022 Highlander models. 

2022 Models	Towing capacity (lb.)
Hybrid LE	3,500
Hybrid XLE	3,500
Hybrid Limited	3,500
Hybrid Platinum	3,500
Bronze Edition	3,500
L	5,000
LE	5,000
XLE	5,000
XSE	5,000
Limited	5,000
Platinum	5,000

What Is The Towing Capacity Of A Toyota Highlander Hybrid?

Toyota Highlander Hybrid includes LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum trims. The recent Hybrid models have a towing capacity of 3500 lb. 

What Is The Towing Capacity Of A 2023 Toyota Highlander?

The hybrid models have a towing capacity of 3500 lb. while other models have a towing capacity of 5000 lb. The towing capacity of the 2023 Toyota Highlander is given in the table below. 

2023 Models	Towing capacity (lb.)
Hybrid Limited	3,500
Hybrid Platinum	3,500
Hybrid LE	3,500
Hybrid XLE	3,500
Bronze Edition	3,500
Limited	5,000
Platinum	5,000
L	5,000
LE	5,000
XLE	5,000
XSE	5,000

What Is The Towing Capacity Of A 2016 Toyota Highlander?

The 2016 Toyota Highlander has a towing capacity ranging from 1,500 to 5,000 lbs.

What Is The Towing Capacity Of 2007 Toyota Highlander?

The different 2007 Toyota Highlander models have a towing capacity of 1,500 to 2,000 lbs.

Best hitch for Toyota highlander by vehicle model year 

2021 Toyota highlander tow hitch

Curt 13453 is the best among 2021 Toyota Highlander hitches. You can get it at a reasonable price of around $200. This trailer would fit perfectly and has a fine overall appearance when installed on the Highlander bumper. 

Best trailer hitch for 2017 Toyota highlander

Curt 13200 is the best trailer hitch for the 2017 Toyota Highlander. It looks great after installation and is quite economical. In fact, it is the most inexpensive trailer hitch for the Toyota Highlander. 

Best trailer hitch for 2016 Toyota highlander

The best 2016 Highlander hitches are mentioned in the table below. 

BRAND	CURT	DRAW-TITE	DRAW-TITE	REESE
PRODUCT	13200	76439	76336	84336
PRICE	$197	$266	$276	$250
HITCH OPENING	2”	2”	2”	2”
CLASS	3	4	3	3
GROSS TRAILER WEIGHT	6,000 lbs.	6,000 lbs.	4,500 lbs.	5,000 lbs.
WEIGHT IN POUNDS	47 lbs.	47 lbs.	‎56.7 lbs.	48.7 lbs.
DRILLING	No	No	Yes	Yes
RATING	92%	85%	79%	–

Best trailer hitch for 2015 Toyota highlander

The best 2015 Highlander hitches are mentioned in the table below. 

BRAND	CURT	DRAW-TITE	DRAW-TITE	REESE
PRODUCT	13200	76439	76336	84336
PRICE	$197	$266	$276	$250
HITCH OPENING	2”	2”	2”	2”
CLASS	3	4	3	3
GROSS TRAILER WEIGHT	6,000 lbs.	6,000 lbs.	4,500 lbs.	5,000 lbs.
WEIGHT IN POUNDS	47 lbs.	47 lbs.	‎56.7 lbs.	48.7 lbs.
DRILLING	No	No	Yes	Yes
RATING	92%	85%	79%	–

Hitch receiver and ball for Highlander limited 2009

CURT 13534 is the suitable trailer hitch for Toyota Highlander 2009. You can get it for less than $200. This 2” receiver has a gross trailer weight of 5000 lbs. 

BRAND	CURT
PRODUCT	13534
PRICE	$190
HITCH OPENING	2”
CLASS	3
GROSS TRAILER WEIGHT	5000 lbs
WEIGHT IN POUNDS	52 lbs.
DRILLING	No
RATING	85%
Buy	Amazon

Best trailer hitch for 2012 Toyota highlander

Highlander vehicles from 2011 to 2013 are compatible with the genuine OEM Toyota hitch. Other Toyota Highlander hitches can’t compare to this one because of how well it fits and how integrated it looks. Moreover, you could have trouble aligning other hitches with the holes in the car if you choose them. Whereas this Highlander’s back side precisely aligns with the slots on the Toyota trailer hitch.

Best hitch receiver and ball for highlander limited 2008

BRAND	CURT
PRODUCT	13534
PRICE	$190
HITCH OPENING	2”
CLASS	3
GROSS TRAILER WEIGHT	5000 lbs
WEIGHT IN POUNDS	52 lbs.
DRILLING	No
RATING	85%
Buy	Amazon

2013 Toyota highlander tow hitch

The Toyota OEM trailer hitch is available for the 2013 Highlander and it has the best fit as compared to other Highlander hitches.  This trailer does not require any alteration because the bolts align perfectly with the vehicle. Also, you would not face ground clearance issues with this trailer on your 2013 Toyota Highlander. 

BRAND	TOYOTA
PRODUCT	PT228-48100
PRICE	$450
HITCH OPENING	2”
CLASS	3
GROSS TRAILER WEIGHT	Depends on the base curb weight and the total weight of the cargo
WEIGHT IN POUNDS	50 lbs.
DRILLING	No
RATING	89%

2008 Toyota highlander tow hitch

You can get a class 3 trailer hitch from Curt for a 2008 Toyota Highlander. It is available at around $300 and works for Toyota Highlander models 2008-2013. 

2023 Toyota Highlander

The 2023 Toyota Highlander models have a towing capacity of 5000 pounds but the hybrid models have towing capacity of 3500 pounds. You can choose any trailer from Toyota Highlander hitches mentioned below the weight of towing trailer or bike rack must be taken into account. Toyota PT228-48200 is a genuine Toyota hitch and fits the best because the bolts are placed exactly where they align with the Highlander models 2020-2023. 

BRAND	CURT	DRAW-TITE	DRAW-TITE	REESE	Toyota
PRODUCT	13453	76439	76336	84336	PT228-48200
YEAR	2020-2022	2014-2019,2020-2022	2014-2022	2014-2022	2020-2023
PRICE	$203	$266	$276	$250	$410
HITCH OPENING	2”	2”	2”	2”	2”
CLASS	3	4	3	3	3
GROSS TRAILER WEIGHT	5,000 lbs.	6,000 lbs.	4,500 lbs.	5,000 lbs.	Depends on the base curb weight and the total weight of the cargo
WEIGHT IN POUNDS	60 lbs.	47 lbs.	‎56.7 lbs.	48.7 lbs.	–
DRILLING	No	No	Yes	Yes	No
RATING	94%	85%	79%	–	–