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What type of hitch is on a Toyota Highlander?

The Toyota Highlander, a popular mid-size SUV, typically comes equipped with a Class III trailer hitch. This hitch type allows the Highlander to tow a variety of trailers, campers, and other equipment, making it a versatile choice for those with active lifestyles or who need to transport larger items.


What is a Class III Trailer Hitch?


A Class III trailer hitch is a type of towing hitch that is designed to handle a maximum trailer weight of up to 8,000 pounds and a maximum tongue weight of 800 pounds. This hitch is commonly found on larger SUVs, trucks, and some minivans, and it provides a sturdy connection point for attaching a trailer or other towing equipment.


Key Features of the Highlander's Hitch



  • Towing Capacity: The Class III hitch on the Toyota Highlander allows it to tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it capable of hauling a wide range of trailers, boats, and other equipment.

  • Tongue Weight: The maximum tongue weight, or the amount of weight that the trailer's coupler places on the hitch, is 500 pounds for the Highlander's Class III hitch.

  • Receiver Size: The receiver tube on a Class III hitch is 2 inches in diameter, which is a standard size that allows for a variety of hitch accessories and attachments to be used.

  • Durability: Class III hitches are built to be sturdy and reliable, with a heavy-duty steel construction that can withstand the stresses of towing heavy loads.


The Toyota Highlander's Class III trailer hitch provides the versatility and capability needed for a wide range of towing and hauling tasks, making it a practical choice for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those who need to transport larger items.

Do Toyota Highlanders have a trailer hitch?


The Toyota Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds!
Learn more about how the Toyota Highlander hitch and other design features aid in its towing power with Galaxy Toyota. Afterward, visit our dealership to take any of our Highlander models for a test drive and experience its effortless power for yourself!



How do I know what type of hitch I have?


Hitch classes are separated by their maximum weight capacity rating and receiver opening size. Classes range from I to V, and each class has its own unique capacity and applications. To find: Read the label on your hitch, or measure the size of the opening.



How do I know what ball hitch to buy?


The ball mount needs to fit precisely in your trailer hitch receiver. There are typically three sizes to choose from: A 1.25-inch ball mount fits in a Class I or II hitch, and it's best for small trailers up to 3,500 lbs. A 2-inch ball mount fits a Class III and IV hitch, and can be used for up to 10,000lbs of GTW.



What is the disadvantage of a weight distribution hitch?


A WDH does not increase the vehicle's maximum towing capacity and should only be used within that figure. Also, keep in mind that a vehicle equipped with rear air springs may level the vehicle but still not properly redistribute the weight. WDHs require more setup than a conventional hitch.



Can you use a weight distribution hitch on a Toyota Highlander?


Yes. You can use your existing weight distribution hitch with the Gen-Y Torsion 2 Ball Mount # 325-GH-1324 without any additional components, but it is not the optimal setup.



Do I need a class 4 hitch?


With a weight distribution system attached, the gross trailer weight capacity increases up to 14,000 lbs. and the tongue weight capacity increases to 1,400 lbs. This makes the class 4 hitch a prime candidate for towing large boat trailers, RVs, livestock trailers and other similarly large trailers.



What is the difference between a Class III and Class V hitch?


Class III hitches attach to the vehicle frame only. Class V hitches used as weight carrying are rated ​up to 12,000 lbs. gross trailer weight​(GTW) with a ​1200 lbs. maximum trailer tongue weight​(TW).



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


How Much Does It Cost to Add a Hitch for a Toyota Highlander (2020-2021)? The price range of a hitch for a Toyota Highlander ranges from $200 to $225. U-Haul carries several different classes of hitches and offers different sizes to accommodate both 1¼ to 2-inch receivers.



What is the most common trailer hitch type?


receiver hitch
A receiver hitch is the most common type because of its versatility. With a receiver hitch, a square metal receiver tube is mounted to the vehicle's frame, allowing you to add various hitch-mounted accessories, such as tow balls, cargo carriers, or bike racks.



Is my hitch Class 3 or 4?


Hitch Class Comparison Chart

Hitch ClassCommon ApplicationsReceiver Size
Class 1Cars and crossovers1-1/4-inch
Class 2Cars, crossovers and minivans1-1/4-inch
Class 3Crossovers, vans, SUVs and trucks2-inch
Class 4Trucks and SUVs2-inch


Kevin's Auto

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.