Determining Towing Capacity of 2016 Toyota Highlander and Parts Needed to Tow Trailer
Question:
Our Highlander does not have the trailer package . We are interested in purchasing a travel trailer with a dry weight between 3000-4000 lbs. The owners manual states the 2016 Highlander has a 5000 lb towing capacity with the towing package. Is there any difference with the manufacturers standard towing package and the after market packages ? Would there be a need to change the radiator, suspension , brakes or cooling lines ? The curb weight on the Highlander is 4410 lbs and the GWWR is 5840 lbs.
asked by: Ed P
Helpful Expert Reply:
I took a look at the online owner's manual for your 2016 Toyota Highlander and found that without the towing package, your V6 model will have a trailer towing capacity of 2,000 pounds. As you mentioned in your question, this jumps up to 5,000 pounds if the vehicle is equipped with the factory tow package.
The contents of a factory tow package vary greatly between vehicle manufacturers and models, so it can be difficult to specify what exactly is included in any given package without talking to a local dealer and giving them your VIN. With that being said, aftermarket products like a transmission cooler or suspension enhancement will not upgrade the capacity of the vehicle. This limit is set by the manufacturer and will need to be adhered to, regardless of what is added.
Since Toyota lists a 2,000 pound towing capacity on your Highlander, I cannot recommend towing a trailer that is between 3,000 and 4,000 pounds.
If you find a lighter trailer that you would like to tow, I can get you all set with the items you will need. Starting with a trailer hitch, I recommend the Draw-Tite Class IV Max Frame # DT65MR. This Class IV hitch is confirmed to fit your Highlander and it will use existing holes in the vehicle's frame for a no-drill installation.
I have attached an installation video on your vehicle that you can use for reference.
Then for a trailer wiring harness, I recommend the Tekonsha T-One # 118449. This custom-fit harness will connect directly to built-in ports behind the driver's side interior trim panel in the rear cargo area and beneath the dash on the driver's side. This will give you a 4-Way connector to connect with and power a trailer's basic signal lights. I have again attached an installation video that you can check out.
You will also need a ball mount and hitch ball to tow a trailer. I have attached a great article that explains exactly how to choose the best one for your setup, along with a link that will take you to our available selection. I have also attached a couple articles on trailer towing that you might find helpful.
Products Referenced in This Question
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
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