Does etrailer Hitch for 2021 Toyota Highlander Give Vehicle Extra Towing Capacity

Question:

Hello, Im considering this Hitch for my 2021 Toyota Highlander XLE Hybrid AWD and Im looking for a long term reliable towing solution as I intend to own to vehicle for 10+ years. The OEM Toyota towing rating for this vehicle is 3500 lbs. Is the 5000 lbs GTW rating as per the etraielr hitch still applicable - as in will I able able to tow up to 5000 lbs despite Toyotas 3500 lbs rating? Also with respect to tongue weight, I would like to carry my motorcycle using a hitch mounted motorcycle carrier. Total weight of system should be around 500 lbs which is at the 500 lbs TW rating of the etrailer hitch. Again, is this impacted by Toyotas Vehicle rating 10 of 3500 lbs = 350 lbs? Are there any periodic maintenance/ inspections required after installing and on regularly using this hitch? Appreciate your guidance!

asked by: Varun K

Expert Reply:

With any towing setup you are only as strong as your weakest component. So the while independently tested etrailer hitch # e75ZR that fits your 2021 Toyota Highlander was found to have a higher capacity than the vehicle you still have to be sure not to exceed the vehicle rating as well. So, this hitch is over-built for your Highlander, but you'd have no issues with it in terms of capacity. You wouldn't be able to carry your motorcycle and carrier though.

For trailer wiring you'd then want the part # TK99FR which is the easiest to install and also very reliable.

expert reply by: Jameson C