Do Toyota Highlanders come with a tow package?

The short answer is yes: most gasoline Highlanders can be equipped with a Tow Package, which unlocks higher towing capabilities, while Hybrid versions have a lower maximum. Availability and exact numbers vary by model year and trim, so always confirm against your specific VIN and the latest Toyota materials.

What the Tow Package includes

Before detailing capacities, it helps to know what the Tow Package typically adds to the Highlander. These components are designed to support safe towing and reliability on longer hauls.

• 2-inch hitch receiver


• Trailer wiring harness


• Engine oil cooler


• Transmission oil cooler


• Additional cooling and cooling-system enhancements as needed

With these hardware and cooling upgrades, the Highlander is prepared for heavier loads when properly equipped. Always verify exact contents for your year and trim with the dealer or Toyota’s official specs, as packages can change by model year.

Towing capacity across Highlander configurations

towing capacity depends on the engine choice and whether the Tow Package is installed. Here are the typical figures you’ll see in recent generations.

• Gasoline V6 engine with Tow Package: up to 5,000 pounds


• Hybrid models (2.5-liter system) with Tow Package: up to 3,500 pounds


• Without the Tow Package: towing capability will be lower and not recommended for heavy trailers; always check the current rating for your exact configuration

These numbers reflect common specifications for the current generation and recent years. For precise figures, consult the owner’s manual or the official Toyota product page for your exact model year and trim, and use your VIN to confirm the rating.

How to add or verify the Tow Package

If you’re considering towing or buying a Highlander used or new, here are practical steps to verify or add the Tow Package.

1. Check your vehicle’s window sticker or the Toyota Owner’s Portal to see if a Tow Package is listed.


2. Confirm with a Toyota dealer using your VIN whether the Tow Package is installed or available for your trim.


3. If not present, order or install the Tow Package through a dealer or use Toyota Genuine Accessories, understanding that some markets require dealer installation for full warranty coverage.


4. Verify that critical towing components (hitch, wiring, engine oil cooler, transmission cooler) are properly installed and functional.


5. Consider adding a trailer brake controller if you’re towing near the upper limits or if local regulations require it for trailers with electric brakes.

After installation or verification, review your owner’s manual for the exact towing ratings and safety guidelines tied to your vehicle’s configuration. Always tow within the listed limits and perform a safety check before long trips.

Towing safety tips and practical considerations

Even with the Tow Package, responsible towing requires careful planning and adherence to guidelines to protect both your Highlander and your trailer.

• Never exceed your vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or towing capacity for your specific build.


• Load trailers with proper weight distribution and use a weight-distribution hitch if recommended for the trailer’s weight.


• Ensure your tires, brakes, and lights are in excellent condition and compatible with the trailer.


• Use a trailer brake controller if the trailer has electric brakes or if required by local regulations.

Adhering to these practices helps ensure stable handling, braking performance, and overall safety on the road while towing with a Highlander.

Summary

In summary, the Toyota Highlander does offer a Tow Package that enables up to 5,000 pounds of towing on gasoline V6 models and up to 3,500 pounds on Hybrid variants, with availability and exact specs varying by year and trim. If towing is a priority, confirm the presence or feasibility of the Tow Package for your specific vehicle, install or upgrade through a Toyota dealer or official channels, and always follow the manufacturer’s towing guidelines and safety recommendations.

How do I tell if my vehicle has a tow package?

You can tell if you have a towing package by visually inspecting the rear of your vehicle for a hitch and a 4-pin or 7-pin trailer connector, checking your owner's manual or vehicle's door jamb sticker for specific codes, or looking for other integrated features like a trailer brake controller and a "Tow/Haul" mode. For a comprehensive list of features, consult the original window sticker or your vehicle's VIN, which can provide details on factory-installed equipment. 
Visual and physical checks

• Look for the trailer hitch: Many tow packages include a receiver hitch at the rear of the vehicle. 
• Check for a trailer connector: Locate the electrical connector, typically a 4-pin or 7-pin round connector, near the hitch. The 7-pin connector indicates a more comprehensive package, as it supports electric brakes and a charged battery for the trailer. 
• Inspect the interior: Check for a trailer brake controller, which is a small, often-dash-mounted device, and look for a "Tow/Haul" button or mode on the dashboard. 
• Look for upgraded hardware: Some packages include heavy-duty springs and shocks on the rear, and LT-rated tires (instead of P-rated). 

This video explains what to look for to determine if you have a towing package, including the trailer hitch and wiring connectors: 1mpetesrvYouTube · Apr 19, 2018
Information and documentation checks

• Consult the owner's manual: Your vehicle's manual is the best source for specific details on its features, including the towing package components and capabilities. 
• Find the original window sticker: If you have the original window sticker, it will list all factory-installed options, including the tow package. 
• Check the vehicle's door jamb sticker: This sticker contains information about your vehicle's weight ratings. You can also find a build code, such as "Z82" for Chevrolet, that identifies the tow package. 
• Use your VIN: You can use your vehicle identification number (VIN) to get a complete list of factory options and equipment from a dealer or a VIN decoder service online. 

Which Toyota has a tow package?

Toyota Tundra
Toyota Tundra: The Power Performer
The Toyota Tundra, powered by the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, offers a maximum towing capacity of 12,000 pounds. 💡 Practical Comparison: Ideal for pulling a large boat or a fully loaded horse trailer.

How much does it cost to put a tow package on a Toyota Highlander?

You can expect a Toyota Highlander hitch to cost anywhere from $200 to $400. If you choose to have your hitch installed professionally, this will usually add about $800-$900 to the total cost.

Does the Toyota Highlander come with a tow package?

There isn't a Toyota Highlander towing package, but we can help you determine what towing capabilities your model has. The best way to determine what capabilities your Highlander has is to check the owner's manual.