Tow Package Recommendation for a 2011 Toyota Highlander

Question:

I have a 2011 Toyota Highlander sport and would like to install a electric brake controller. I know I will need the controller, wiring harness and circular plug for trailor. Can you recomend everything I need and any videos and help for installation?

asked by: Dave

Expert Reply:

We have everything that you need to set up your 2011 Toyota Highlander for towing. First, if you don't already have a trailer hitch, I recommend installing the Draw-Tite Max Frame Class III Trailer Hitch # 75726 because it has more than enough capacity for your vehicle and it is rated for use with a weight distribution system if necessary.

Next, if you don't already have a tail light wiring harness with a 4-pin connector like part # 118449, then you will want to install this item as well. This will provide the tail light signals for the trailer. After that, we will need add a 7-way trailer connector and the wiring for a brake controller. For this, your best option is our brake controller installation kit, part # ETBC7. This kit comes with everything you need to add a fully functional 7-way trailer connector and a brake controller. For a brake controller, the Prodigy P3, # 90195 is the top controller on the market which I highly recommend. The display is very easy to use and see, especially for those who are new to towing.

The last item that you will need is a ball mount. Ball mounts come in several different sizes because it is important to tow your trailer as level as possible. Check out the help article I attached that explains how to choose the correct ball mount for your towing setup.

These are the basic components that you will need to tow a trailer with brakes. I have attached installation videos for each product on a Highlander for you to check out.

The only other items that you may want to consider before towing are a weight distribution system or suspension enhancement, if the rear end of your Highlander sags under the tongue weight of the trailer, and oil coolers. Oil coolers and suspension enhancement are common upgrades on vehicles that come with tow packages. The number one killer of engines and transmissions is overheating and towing will cause transmission fluid and engine oil heat up more than normal. These items would be especially important if you plan on towing at or near the Highlander's towing capacity.

I have attached a help article on weight distribution for you to check out to see if that would be a good option for you. The main purpose of weight distribution is to transfer the tongue weight of the trailer to all axles giving you a level ride and this is the ideal option to correct sagging. If you are interested in this option, just tell me the loaded tongue weight of your trailer and I would be happy to make a few recommendations.

The oil cooler I recommend is the Derale Engine and Transmission Oil Cooler, # D15902. We installed this kit on a 2012 4Runner. I attached the video for you to check out.

We also carry the Coil SumoSprings, # CSS-1168R, that would be a more cost effective alternative to weight distribution. These springs reduce sag at the rear axle by preventing the rear coil springs from compressing all the way. This is not as effective as weight distribution, but it will be better than nothing.