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Can you put a hitch on a Toyota Camry?

Yes. A Toyota Camry can be equipped with a hitch, either via a factory towing package or an aftermarket hitch, for light to moderate towing within the car’s rated limits.

Understanding compatibility and capacity

The Camry is a mid-size sedan designed primarily for passenger transport, not heavy towing. Most current Camry models are rated for around 1,000 pounds of total trailer weight, with limits on tongue weight that vary by year, engine, and whether a towing package is installed. Exact numbers depend on your vehicle’s specific configuration, so always consult the owner’s manual and verify with a Toyota dealer before towing.

Hitch options for a Camry

There are multiple paths to add a hitch, including factory towing packages and aftermarket hitch kits. Here are common options:

OEM factory towing package: Some Camry trims offer a dealer-installed or factory option that includes a hitch receiver and a wiring harness, and sometimes a dedicated connector. This option tends to integrate most smoothly with the car’s electrical system and warranty.

Aftermarket Class II hitch (1.25-inch receiver): A lighter-duty, widely available option that fits many Camrys and can handle lighter trailers or accessory carriers. Often easier to install and cheaper upfront.

Aftermarket Class III hitch (2-inch receiver): A heavier-duty option suitable for larger racks or trailers, with more accessory compatibility. Installation tends to be more involved but offers greater capacity.

Trailer wiring harness: Options range from 4-pin connectors for basic lighting to 7-pin (or other configurations) for trailers with electric brakes or more complex electrical needs. A proper harness ensures signals are correct and compliant with law and safety standards.

Installation considerations: Some year models require removing panels, accessing reinforced crossmembers, or mounting to frame points. In many cases, professional installation is recommended to protect warranty and ensure proper alignment and wiring.

Concluding note: Choosing the right hitch involves matching your trailer weight, desired accessories, and the Camry’s official towing rating. When in doubt, consult a Toyota dealer or qualified installer to confirm compatibility for your exact year and trim.

What to tow safely and legally

Beyond selecting a hitch, towing safety depends on adhering to weight limits, wiring correctly, and using proper equipment. Here are key considerations:

The Camry’s maximum trailer weight is limited and varies by year and trim; for most current models, it sits around 1,000 pounds. Do not exceed the rated limit, including tongue weight and gross trailer weight.

If you tow heavier loads, you may need a trailer brake controller and a hitch setup rated for your vehicle. Braking performance, steering stability, and tire load change with towing, so ensure tires are properly inflated and adjust driving style for towing conditions.

Ensure the trailer is wired correctly with lights and brakes, and that the hitch is securely mounted and the load is balanced to minimize sway.

Concluding note: Always verify towing limits in your owner’s manual and work with a professional installer if you’re unsure about weight ratings or wiring requirements. This helps protect both your vehicle and other road users.

Installation steps and options

If you’re planning to install a hitch yourself, here is a general outline; professional installation is recommended for most Camry owners to ensure safety and warranty compliance:

Check your Camry’s towing rating in the owner’s manual for the exact year and trim configuration.

Select the hitch class (typically Class II or Class III) and confirm weight capacities align with your intended trailer.

Choose a compatible wiring harness suitable for your trailer’s electrical needs.

Follow the mounting instructions, which may involve bolting brackets to reinforced frame points and possibly removing minor underbody panels or components.

Test all lights and signals on the trailer and verify that the hitch remains secure before each towing trip.

Concluding note: While DIY installation is possible for some enthusiasts, many Camry owners opt for professional installation to ensure a clean fit, proper electrical integration, and warranty protection.

Summary

In short, yes—it's possible to add a hitch to a Toyota Camry through either a factory towing package or an aftermarket solution. Always check your exact model year and trim against the official towing rating, choose a hitch that matches that rating, and ensure wiring is properly installed. For most Camrys, towing capacity is around 1,000 pounds, so plan loads accordingly and consult a dealer or qualified installer to confirm compatibility and installation specifics for your vehicle.

What year of Toyota Camry to stay away from?

The Toyota Camry years to avoid are primarily 2007–2011, due to excessive oil consumption issues in the 4-cylinder engine, and 2002, which had numerous complaints. Other years with significant reported issues include 2008 and 2009, as well as 2012-2014 for potential transmission problems and 2018-2019 for specific 8-speed automatic transmission and fuel system problems.

This video discusses the best and worst Toyota Camry years: 54scar PROblemsYouTube · May 22, 2025
2007–2011

4-cylinder engine: This generation is known for the 2AZ-FE engine, which has low-tension piston rings that can lead to excessive oil burning, especially at higher mileage.
Melting dashboards: These models are also prone to dashboards that melt and become sticky in hot weather.
Airbag system: Some 2010-2011 models had airbag failures, including unexpected deployment or failure to deploy in an accident.

What is the hitch rating on a Toyota Camry?

This Toyota Camry hitch is rated to tow up to 2,000 lbs.

Can a Toyota Camry pull a trailer?

Yes, a Toyota Camry can pull a trailer, but only very light loads and with the proper equipment like a Class I hitch. Its maximum towing capacity is typically around 1,000 pounds, and it is not designed for heavy towing. Exceeding weight limits can strain the vehicle's transmission and brakes.

This video demonstrates how to install a trailer hitch on a Toyota Camry: 1mU-Haul Trailer Hitches And TowingYouTube · Mar 29, 2024
Before you tow

Check your owner's manual: Always confirm the specific towing capacity for your model year and engine.
Install a Class I hitch: This type is designed for light loads and must be correctly installed on the vehicle's frame.
Do not exceed weight limits: Ensure the combined weight of the trailer and its cargo does not exceed the vehicle's capacity. The Camry's typical capacity is around 1,000 pounds.
Towing with a Camry:
- Is not recommended for heavy loads: The Camry is a sedan and is not built for heavy-duty towing, which could cause damage.
- Is only for light trailers: It's suitable for small trailers, such as a utility trailer for a light load or a small camper.
- Requires proper equipment: A properly installed hitch and working trailer lights are essential for safety.
Inspect your setup: Regularly check the hitch connections and trailer lights to ensure they are secure and functioning correctly before and during a trip.

How much does it cost to add a hitch to your car?

Generally, receiver-style hitches increase in price as the class gets higher, but minimally considering the capacity differences. Depending on the model you drive and the class you need, you can expect to pay between $150 and $400 for most receiver hitches.

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.