Installation and Spare Tire Clearance on the Curt Hitch # 13534 and a 2012 Toyota Highlander

Question:

Hello! - 2 quick questions....Im interested in part# Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2inch Item # 13534 for my 2012 Highlander....with this hitch installed...can I still keep my full sized spare tire underneath the vehicle? Regarding the underbody trim panels....if these are trimmed based on the cutout lines...do these have to be reinstalled before the hitch is installed or can it be done after? Thank you for your time and help!

asked by: Dennis

Expert Reply:

According to the installation instructions on the Curt Class III Hitch # 13534, you will reinstall the trim panels after the hitch has been installed and the mounting bolts have been torqued to specs.

Looking at the photos of this hitch we installed on a 2012 Toyota Highlander, it appears that the full size spare will still be accessible when the hitch is installed. You may have to have the side of the tire that faces toward the front of the vehicle to tilt forward to clear the hitch at the back of the spare when lowering.

I have included a link to an installation video of this hitch on a 2012 Highlander for you to review.

expert reply by: Jared P