Does Higher Rated Trailer Hitch for 2016 Toyota RAV4 Increase Vehicle Towing Capacity

Question:

Im considering buying a trailer hitch for my 2016 RAV4 XLE Hybrid. Toyota states the RAV4 can tow up to 1,750 lbs. but I noticed in one of your videos you are advertising hitches for compact SUVs you actually showed a RAV4 which can take much more weight you advised of up to 3,500 lbs. on one. Does this mean I can safely tow more than Toyotas stated weight, if I buy and correctly install one of your hitches? For reference, Im hoping to tow a 10-foot enclosed trailer, which I would load with tables, chairs and tents for a tent rental business. Thanks!

asked by: Erik H

Expert Reply:

The overall towing capacity of a vehicle is the lowest rated component since you are only as strong as your weakest link. What that means is that if you installed the etrailer hitch part # e98864 on your 2016 Toyota which has a 3,500 lb total trailer towing capacity you would still be limited to what Toyota stated was the capacity of your vehicle. In your case 1,750 lbs.

If the trailer you plan to tow weighs less than that when fully loaded you would be fine. For trailer wiring you then would want the part # 118578.

If you wanted to do some towing 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.

expert reply by: Jameson C