Recommended Trailer Wiring Harness For 2016 Toyota Highlander

Question:

I have a 2016 Toyota Highlander Limited. I am interested in the CURT hitch. I also will need a wiring harness. How do I know if the factory converter is already under the dash? Also, is there a bracket to mount the pin connector to the hitch instead of hanging out the back hatch?

asked by: Craig S

Expert Reply:

The Curt Trailer Hitch, part # C13200 will work great on your 2016 Highlander. This is a Class lll hitch and it has a 2-inch receiver opening.

It sounds like you plan on doing some towing so you might be interested in etrailer ball mount kit # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts; one with a 3/4 inch rise or 2 inch drop and one with a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop. It also includes a 1-7/8 inch ball, 2 inch ball, hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag.

If the ball mount kit does not include a ball mount with the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, check out the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level.

For the trailer harness wiring you can look under the dash between the emergency brake pedal and the brake pedal. If you find a 10-pin connector similar to the connector in the attached photo, then you do not have the converter on your Highlander and you will need a wiring harness like part # 118449.

If you see a converter attached to the 10-pin connector you will need part # 56042.

You may be able to find a grommet in the floor of the rear cargo area that you can run the wiring connector through to attach to the trailer hitch. This may mean removing more of the panels in the cargo area. If you cannot find a grommet, you may need to drill a hole through the bottom of the cargo area and then use a silicone sealant like part # 0160297 to seal it up after installation.

To attach the wire harness to the trailer hitch I recommend a no-drill bracket like part # 18140.