How much does it cost to install a hitch on a Toyota Highlander?

The typical price range to install a hitch on a Toyota Highlander is about $250 to $600, depending on hitch type, wiring, and who does the installation.

Installing a hitch on a Highlander is a common upgrade for towing a bike rack, small trailer, or cargo carrier. Prices vary with hitch class (how much weight you plan to tow), whether you buy an aftermarket kit or an OEM Toyota hitch, and whether wiring and electrical components are included. This article outlines the main options, estimated costs, and practical considerations as of 2025.

What affects the price

Several factors determine the total outlay for a Highlander hitch installation, including the hitch’s class and receiver size, whether the hitch is aftermarket or OEM, wiring needs, labor rates, and regional pricing. Below are the primary drivers and how they influence cost.

Hitch class and compatibility

Most Highlanders use a 2-inch receiver. Class III is the standard choice for common towing needs; Class IV hitch options exist for heavier towing. Higher-capacity hitches cost more upfront and may require additional hardware or modifications.

OEM vs aftermarket

OEM Toyota hitches (often sold and installed through a dealership) typically cost more than aftermarket kits but can simplify wiring compatibility and warranty considerations. Aftermarket options are usually cheaper upfront and come from brands like CURT, Draw-Tite, or Reese, with varying prices for different classes.

Wiring and electrical components

Most installations require a wiring harness (4-pin, 5-pin, or 7-pin) to connect trailer lights. Some setups add a trailer brake controller. Wiring adds to both parts cost and labor time, so a harness can noticeably affect the total price.

Labor and installation setting

Dealership installations tend to be more expensive than independent shops or do-it-yourself installs, but may offer standardized warranties and dealer-trained technicians. Labor times typically range from 1 to 2 hours, depending on the vehicle year and whether exhaust or bumper work is needed.

Cost options and typical ranges

Below are common options and their typical installed price ranges. Note that actual prices vary by region, model year, and shop.

• Aftermarket Class III hitch (2" receiver) with standard wiring harness; commonly installed by independent shops


• Aftermarket Class IV hitch (2" receiver) for heavier towing; includes wiring if needed


• OEM Toyota hitch with wiring harness (dealer-installed)


• DIY installation using an aftermarket kit (parts only, no labor)

Prices vary by brand and installer, but typical installed costs tend to follow these ballparks: aftermarket Class III around $170–$350 for parts plus labor, aftermarket Class IV around $200–$450 total with labor, OEM OEM installations often $400–$900 total depending on year and region, and DIY parts-only costs usually $100–$300.

Estimated total costs by scenario

For clarity, here are rough total ranges you can expect for different installation paths, including parts and labor where applicable.

• DIY aftermarket kit (parts only): approximately $100–$300


• Aftermarket hitch installed by a shop (Class III or IV, wiring included): approximately $200–$550


• OEM Toyota hitch installed by a dealer (with wiring): approximately $400–$900

Additional features such as a brake controller or specialized exhaust clearance work can add $50–$150 or more to the total, depending on the vehicle year and the installer’s pricing.

Model-year and towing considerations

While the Highlander’s basic requirement is a 2" receiver, some model years—especially earlier generations or hybrids—may have slightly different mounting considerations or wiring harness compatibility. If you plan to tow near the vehicle’s limit, confirm the hitch’s weight rating and ensure you choose a Class III or IV setup that matches your trailer’s tongue weight and gross trailer weight ratings. A certified installer can verify compatibility and warranty coverage for aftermarket components.

What to ask your installer

To avoid surprises, ask these questions when getting quotes:

• Is the price for parts only or including labor?


• What class and receiver size is recommended for my towing needs?


• What wiring options are included (4-pin, 5-pin, 7-pin, brake controller)?


• Will installation require modifications to the exhaust or bumper?


• Is there a warranty on the hitch and work, and what does it cover?

Clear quotes and a detailed scope of work help prevent sticker shock and ensure the hitch installation meets your towing plans.

Summary

For most Toyota Highlander owners, a hitch installation falls in the $250–$600 range, with aftermarket setups typically offering the best price-to-function balance and OEM dealer installs providing straightforward wiring and warranty options. The final price depends on hitch class (III vs IV), whether you use aftermarket or OEM hardware, wiring needs, labor rates, and whether any vehicle-specific modifications are required. If you’re weighing options, compare total installed costs, warranty terms, and how the setup aligns with your towing needs before committing.

Bottom line

Whether you choose a cost-conscious aftermarket solution or a dealer-installed OEM hitch, understand the full installed price, including wiring and potential brake controller installation, to ensure you’re getting the best value for your Highlander and your towing plans.

Can I add a hitch to my Toyota Highlander?

Yes, you can put a trailer hitch on a Toyota Highlander, with many aftermarket options available that don't require drilling for installation. These hitches are designed to bolt directly to the vehicle's chassis, and installation can be a DIY project or done professionally, though professional installation will add to the total cost. 
Before you buy

• Check compatibility: There are many custom-fit hitches available for various Toyota Highlander model years and trims. Check product listings to ensure a proper fit. 
• Consider your needs:
  • Towing capacity: The Highlander can often tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Choose a hitch that can handle your intended load. 
  • Installation method: Some hitches are designed to use existing holes and don't require drilling, while others may require drilling. 
  • Exposed vs. hidden: Some hitches are visible, while others are designed to be more hidden. Choose based on your aesthetic preference. 

This video demonstrates the installation process for a trailer hitch on a 2020-2025 Toyota Highlander: 56sU-Haul Trailer Hitches And TowingYouTube · May 16, 2025
Installation options

• DIY: You can install a hitch yourself if you are comfortable with basic automotive work. There are many online guides and videos to help with the process, which often involves removing underbody panels and using the vehicle's frame to mount the hitch. 
• Professional installation: You can have a hitch installed by a professional at a dealership or a local shop, which can cost around $800-$900 in addition to the hitch itself. 
• U-Haul: Many people choose to have a hitch professionally installed by companies like U-Haul, which offers guides and installation services. 

You can watch this video to see a demonstration of installing a trailer hitch on a 2014-2019 Toyota Highlander: 54sU-Haul Trailer Hitches And TowingYouTube · Jul 25, 2019
Additional considerations

• Wiring: If you plan to tow a trailer, you will also need to install the correct wiring harness for trailer lights and signals. 
• Towing package: If your Highlander came with the factory-installed towing package, it may already be equipped with a hitch receiver. 
• Receiver lock: Consider getting a receiver lock to secure your hitch when it's not in use. 

How much does it cost to add a tow hitch to a Toyota Highlander?

How Much Does the 2024 Toyota Highlander Hitch Cost? 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.

How much does it cost to have a hitch installed?

To get this extra capacity, a hitch needs to be bolted to your frame that allows a trailer to be connected to your vehicle. What does trailer hitch installation cost? There's a large range in price from around $250 to $1,300 or more. Naturally, it varies depending on the vehicle and the type and class of hitch.

What year to stay away from a Toyota Highlander?

Years to avoid in the Toyota Highlander include 2003, 2008, 2014, 2015, and 2020 due to common issues like transmission problems, oil leaks, and technology glitches. Other problematic years to consider are 2001-2007 (engine and climate control issues) and 2016-2019 (varying issues including potential oil leaks in some models).
 
This video discusses problems with the Toyota Highlander from 2020 to 2025, including paint issues: 54sCarnivautoYouTube · Feb 11, 2025
Toyota Highlander years to avoid

• 2001–2007: Prone to engine overheating, head gasket failures, and climate control issues like AC compressor and blower motor problems. 
• 2003: A big year for issues, particularly engine oil sludge buildup and premature transmission wear, according to Regan Motors Inc and Clutch. 
• 2008: A redesigned model that experienced oil cooler line leaks, which can cause engine damage if not addressed, and lower-quality interior components. 
• 2014: A recall was issued for the second-row seat assembly that may not lock correctly into the seat track, and there were also reports of issues that might be linked to the transmission, says Clutch and Reddit users. 
• 2015: Experienced growing pains from its redesign, with various reports of growing issues, according to Regan Motors Inc and Clutch. 
• 2020: Experienced early transmission and software problems, say Clutch and Reddit users. 

You can watch this video to learn more about common problems with the 2020-2025 Toyota Highlander: 51sChris DrivesYouTube · Jul 5, 2025