How much does it cost to add a hitch to a Toyota Highlander?
Typically you’re looking at roughly $300 to $800 for an aftermarket hitch setup (hitch, wiring, and labor). A dealer-installed OEM tow package tends to run about $500 to $1,200 or more, depending on the Highlander’s year, trim, and whether additional components (like a brake controller or a 7‑pin connector) are included.
Cost paths to consider
The following options represent the common ways Highlander owners add a hitch, with typical component costs and labor implications.
- OEM factory tow package installed by a Toyota dealer: includes the hitch and wiring harness, sometimes a 7‑pin connector; price range typically $500–$1,200+ including installation, higher if extra features such as a brake controller are added.
- Aftermarket hitch installation from brands such as Curt, Draw-Tite, or Reese: hitch $100–$350, wiring harness $40–$150, labor $100–$300; total commonly $270–$800, with higher-end setups or additional wiring potentially reaching about $900–$1,000.
- DIY installation (owner-assembled): you supply the parts and install yourself; cost generally hitch $100–$350, wiring $30–$100, for a total of roughly $130–$450, depending on components and sales, with the caveat of vehicle warranty and safety considerations.
Prices vary by region, year, and dealer or shop labor rates, and can be higher if your Highlander requires special mounting hardware or if you opt for features like a brake controller or a 7‑pin electrical connector.
Warranty, compatibility, and practical notes
Factory-installed tow packages typically align with Toyota’s warranty and towing specifications, while aftermarket installs can affect warranty coverage for the hitch installation or related electrical systems. Always verify compatibility with your specific Highlander model year and engine configuration, and confirm whether a brake controller or more advanced wiring is needed for your towing load.
What affects the price?
Prices can vary based on your Highlander’s year, the hitch’s class and rating, wiring needs, and where you have the work done. Here are the main price drivers to consider as you shop around.
- Year and engine configuration of the Highlander: newer models and those with higher towing specs may require different mounting hardware or wiring options.
- Hitch class and load rating: Class III is common for Highlanders; higher-rated classes or weight-distribution hitches can raise parts and install costs.
- Wiring harness type: 4‑pin vs 7‑pin connectors, and whether a brake controller is included or added later.
- Labor rates and installer type: dealership prices tend to be higher than independent shops, and DIY labor is free but carries safety and warranty considerations.
- Additional features or requirements: integration with sensors, bumpers, exhaust clearance, and professional alignment can influence total cost.
Understanding these factors helps you compare quotes, plan for towing readiness, and ensure you choose a solution that fits your Highlander and your tow-worthy loads.
Summary
For most Toyota Highlander owners, adding a hitch costs range from roughly $300–$800 for aftermarket installation to about $500–$1,200 or more for a dealer-installed OEM tow package, with variability based on year, hardware, and labor. Weigh OEM convenience and warranty against the potential savings of aftermarket options, and factor in wiring needs, brake controllers, and local labor rates. Always verify compatibility with your vehicle and have installation performed by a qualified professional when in doubt.
