General Towing Information for a 2004 Toyota Highlander V6

Question:

Is VIN # required to order proper hitch? Does spare tire have to be removed ? Where do I find the tow prep package wire harness? Is spare tire accessible after installation? Toyota manual suggests removing hitch if not used? Does the Toyota tow prep harness require additional wiring? What is meant by the term converter? Are all hitches receiver types? What are the advantages,disadvantages of the other two Highlander hitches in your inventory? Thanks

asked by: John S

Expert Reply:

A VIN is not required, just the year, make and model of a vehicle. Sometimes certain configurations need to be stated such as Hybrid engine, 4WD or sport packages.

On some vehicles, spare tires need to be removed. The Draw-Tite hitch, part # 75153 does not require removal of the spare tire and yes it can still be accessed.

The trailer wiring harness for tow package 2004 Highlanders is part # 118248. The port for the tow package vehicles is located behind the driver side cargo access panel and threshold. I have added links to this part and the illustrated instructions so you can locate the port. This would be the only wiring needed for basic 4-Pole trailers.

Hitches are designed to be semi-permanent installs. It can be removed if you sell the vehicle later and want to keep the hitch, but you should NOT remove and install the hitch each time you use it.

The word converter can mean many different things in the automotive industry. In towing it could refer to converting a 3 wire tail light system to a 2 wire or converting one type of trailer connector to another.

There are many types of hitches. A receiver hitch is the most common and when most people talk about a hitch, that is what they are referring to. There are also many variants of Fifth Wheel and Gooseneck hitches, but those are used with full size pick up trucks. I have added links to hitch basics pages that review types, sizes and classes.

There is very little difference among the 3 hitches available for a 2004 Highlander. The Draw-Tite and Hidden Hitch are sister companies and those hitches are virtually the same. The Valley is a bit different. They use less bends in the main tube on this particular model which allows them to use a weight distribution system with the hitch to increase capacity. Some vehicles cannot handle a weight distribution system, so you would need to check your owner manual to see if your Highlander can handle a weight distribution system. If not, the Valley does not offer any advantages over the others. They are all no-drill installations and an average person with average tools and mechanical ability should be able to install it in about 40 minutes.