Recommended Trailer Hitch & Wiring Harness for 2001 Toyota Highlander

Question:

I am looking to purchase the wiring harness for a Toyota highlander 2001, but found a couple different items, can you guide me to which wiring harness is the one I need? I am also looking to purchase the hitch receiver with it. Thank you

asked by: Israel M

Helpful Expert Reply:

We offer two sizes/classes of hitch for your 2001 Toyota Highlander that you can see on the linked page. Both 1-1/4-inch Class II and 2-inch Class III hitches are offered; I suggest the 2-inch hitch # C13429 from Curt for its no-drill installation and because there are many more accessories made for this hitch size. An installation video and help article are linked for you.

For trailer wiring the correct part depends on how the truck was equipped from the factory and what type of connector you need, a 4-pole flat that carries light signals only or a 7-way that carries those lighting signals but also includes additional circuits for trailer brakes and 12V power.

For a basic 4-pole flat harness to operate trailer lights you can use the easy-install harness # C55400 from Curt which simply plugs in at your taillights - no cutting or splicing required. This will definitely work on your Highlander. And it is possible to convert this to a 7-way with 12V power and trailer brake power by adding our brake controller installation kit # ETBC7 which includes all parts to install a 7-way on a vehicle that already has a 4-pole in place.

I also linked our pages for Class III ball mounts and hitch balls, as well as a helpful article to guide your ball mount selection.

expert reply by: Adam R