What is included in a Toyota tow package?
A Toyota tow package typically bundles the hardware and towing-specific upgrades needed to pull trailers safely, including a hitch and wiring, with some cooling and brake components depending on model and year.
In detail, the contents vary by model and year, but most Toyota tow packages share core elements designed to support towing, from the hitch itself to the electrical connections and safety features that help stability and braking when towing.
What the package typically includes
Before listing the standard components, note that exact items can differ. The following are common elements you may find in many Toyota tow packages across recent models.
- Hitch receiver and mounting hardware (commonly a 2-inch hitch)
- Tow wiring harness and trailer connector (usually 4- or 7-pin for lighting and brakes)
- Trailer ball mount and hitch ball (sometimes included pre-installed)
- Trailer brake controller (either factory-installed or wiring-ready; availability varies by model and trim)
- Enhanced cooling for towing, such as a transmission oil cooler (and in some configurations, an engine oil cooler)
- Cooling-system upgrades or reinforced cooling components in certain models to support heavier loads
- Vehicle stability enhancements linked to towing, such as trailer sway control integration
Overall, these items form the typical content set, but verify with the dealer for the exact specification on a given model-year as some content is optional or model-specific.
Model-specific variations
Different Toyotas designed for progressively heavier towing loads tailor the Tow Package accordingly. Here are general patterns seen in popular models, with the caveat that exact content shifts by year and trim.
Toyota Tacoma
In many Tacomas, the Tow Package adds the 2-inch hitch receiver, a trailer wiring harness (frequently a 7-pin setup), and a trailer brake controller option. Upgraded cooling or engine cooler may be included on some years, and the package often aligns with the vehicle’s towing rating for the configuration. Always confirm the exact configuration from the brochure or dealer.
Toyota 4Runner
The 4Runner Tow Package commonly includes the hitch and trailer wiring, with compatibility for a trailer brake controller on certain trims. In some years, added cooling components such as a transmission cooler are included or available as part of the package, along with sway-control features that complement the vehicle's stability systems.
Toyota Highlander
Highlander Tow Packages typically provide the hitch and trailer wiring, with higher trims occasionally including a trailer brake controller. Some years also offer cooling upgrades and enhanced tow-calibration settings to improve braking and stability when pulling trailers.
Toyota Sequoia / Tundra
Tow packages for larger Toyotas like Sequoia and Tundra often emphasize heavier-duty hitch hardware, a 7-pin trailer wiring harness, and integrated trailer brake controller capabilities, plus cooling-system enhancements appropriate for higher towing loads. Model-year differences apply here as well.
Practical notes for buyers
- Always check the vehicle’s window sticker or the official brochure for the exact tow-package contents for the specific year and trim.
- If a vehicle isn’t equipped with a factory tow package, you can usually add a hitch and wiring aftermarket, but ensure compatibility with the vehicle’s towing capacity and warranty terms.
Summary
In short, a Toyota tow package is designed to provide the essential hardware and electronic features required to tow safely, centered on a hitch, trailer wiring, and safety/cooling elements. Exact contents depend on model and year, so the definitive source is Toyota’s official documentation or a dealership.
