Will Transmission Cooler Increase Towing Capacity On 2013 Toyota Highlander

Question:

I had a hitch put on my highlander after I purchased it. Im told the tow rating is on 2,000 lbs but the facorty installed ones are 5,000 lbs. It was mentioned to me to get a transmission cooler installed to get it up to towing capacity. Any advice on what exactly to do from here? Looking to tow a travel trailer around 4,000 lbs

asked by: Tracy M

Expert Reply:

The towing capacity of your Highlander is between 1,500 and 5,000-lbs based on what equipment your Highlander has.

I have attached a chart I found in the Highlander owner's manual that lists the towing capacity based on the engine and drive system. The chart also has a model code I was unable to find any information about. This may be something the dealership can provide you with. If you are not sure what the capacity of your Highlander is, you can use the VIN and the dealer should be able to tell you exactly what your towing capacity is.

When towing, adding a transmission cooler will not increase the towing capacity. It is designed to help keep the transmission running better by cooling the fluid. It is always a good idea to add a cooler when towing. The transmission cooler I recommend for your Highlander is the Derale Plate-Fin Cooler, part # D13503. This is a Class lll cooler and it includes the mounting kit.

You said you had a hitch put on your Highlanderand was told it has a 2,000-lb capacity. The trailer hitches we offer for a 2013 are all Class lll and have a towing capacity of 5,000-lbs, but once again, the towing capacity of your vehicle is based on the equipment you have.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L