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Can a Toyota Highlander pull a fifth wheel?

Yes, a Toyota Highlander can tow a fifth wheel trailer, but with some important limitations. The Highlander's towing capacity and the weight of the fifth wheel trailer must be carefully considered to ensure safe and legal towing.


Towing Capacity of the Toyota Highlander


The Toyota Highlander has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. This means the Highlander can safely tow a fifth wheel trailer that weighs up to 5,000 pounds. However, the actual towing capacity can vary depending on the specific Highlander model, engine, and other factors.


Considerations for Towing a Fifth Wheel with a Highlander


Towing a fifth wheel trailer with a Toyota Highlander requires careful planning and consideration of several factors:



  • Weight of the Fifth Wheel: The combined weight of the fifth wheel trailer and its contents must not exceed the Highlander's maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. Exceeding this limit can be dangerous and illegal.

  • Tongue Weight: The weight of the fifth wheel's tongue, which rests on the Highlander's hitch, must not exceed the vehicle's maximum tongue weight capacity. This is typically around 10-15% of the total towing capacity.

  • Trailer Brakes: Fifth wheel trailers over a certain weight (usually 3,000 pounds) typically require their own braking system, which must be properly connected and synchronized with the Highlander's brakes.

  • Driving Dynamics: Towing a large fifth wheel trailer can significantly affect the Highlander's handling, acceleration, and braking. Drivers must adjust their driving accordingly and allow for longer stopping distances.


It's important to consult the Highlander's owner's manual and the fifth wheel trailer's specifications to ensure the combination is within the vehicle's towing capacity and can be safely operated.


Alternatives to Towing a Fifth Wheel with a Highlander


If the fifth wheel trailer exceeds the Highlander's towing capacity, or if the driver is not comfortable towing such a large trailer, there are other options to consider:



  • Rent or purchase a larger towing vehicle, such as a full-size truck or SUV, that can safely handle the fifth wheel trailer's weight.

  • Consider a smaller, lighter travel trailer or camper that can be towed by the Highlander within its capacity.

  • Explore alternative camping options, such as renting an RV or staying in cabins or hotels, that do not require towing a fifth wheel trailer.


The key is to prioritize safety and legal compliance when towing any trailer with the Toyota Highlander.

What SUV has 3500lb towing capacity?


Small SUVs with the Best Towing Capacity

Small SUVMaximum Tow Capacity
2024 Subaru Crosstrek3,500 pounds
2024 Volvo XC403,500 pounds
2024 Subaru Forester3,000 pounds
2024 Kia Sportage2,500 pounds



Which Toyota SUV has the highest towing capacity?


2022 Toyota Sequoia Towing Capacity
The Toyota Sequoia towing capacity is rated at a maximum of 7,400 pounds, which means bringing your toys along for the summer road trip is no problem.



Can a Toyota Highlander tow a 3500 lb trailer?


Towing: The new Highlander has a max towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, or 3,500 pounds on hybrid models, when properly equipped.



Can a Toyota Highlander be towed behind an RV?


Can the Toyota Highlander be flat towed? Generally speaking, you cannot flat tow your Toyota Highlander. It's advisable to dolly tow it or tow it traditionally on a towing rig. You should always make sure the vehicle doing the towing is able to handle the size of the Highlander and has the right capabilities.



Does towing a car behind an RV damage it?


Towing a car behind an RV can damage its transmission, steering system and other components if it is not designed for RV towing. The transmission must be disconnected or fluid will continue to pump without the engine running.



What used midsize SUV has the highest towing capacity?


9 Best Used SUVs For Towing in 2024

SUV ModelTowing Capacity (lbs)Engine Options
Toyota SequoiaUp to 7,4005.7L V8
Dodge DurangoUp to 8,7003.6L V6, 5.7L V8, 6.4L V8
Nissan ArmadaUp to 8,5005.6L V8
Jeep Grand CherokeeUp to 7,2003.6L V6, 5.7L V8, 6.4L V8



Can a Toyota Highlander tow 5000 lbs?


The Highlander has a towing capacity between 3,500-5,000 lbs. The towing capacity changes depending on if your model has a hybrid powertrain or gasoline engine. Highlander models with the standard 3.5L V6 engine have a tow capacity of 5,000 lbs.



Which Toyota can tow 3500 pounds?


2021 Toyota RAV4
2021 Toyota RAV4 Towing Capacity
The spacious interior offers lots of cargo room, and, in case you have extra gear to bring along, the Toyota RAV4 towing capacity is an impressive 1,500 to 3,500 pounds.



What Toyota can pull a fifth wheel?


What Can the 2023 Toyota Tundra Tow? With a towing capacity of 12,000 pounds, what can the 2023 Toyota Tundra tow in Monticello? Some of the equipment you can haul with the 2023 Toyota Tundra towing capacity includes: Fifth-wheel RVs.



What Toyotas can be flat towed behind an RV?


ModelYearManual Transmission
Camry1992-2011Yes
Camry2012-2020N/A
Camry Hybrid2007-2020N/A
Celica1994-1999Yes


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.