Is a 2010 Toyota Highlander with a Curt Trailer Hitch Rated for Use with Weight Distribution

Question:

I bought this with a prodigy brake controller from your company. I am going to purchase a hybrid travel trailer which comes with the sway bars and weight distribution hitch. I just going over specs and wanted to confirm that you can use this hitch with this set up. toyota highlander v6 201019 - Roo Expandable Travel Trailers Dry Hitch Weight 379 lbs. 172 kg Unloaded Vehicle Weight 3,494 lbs. 1,585 kg

asked by: Thomas S

Expert Reply:

The Curt Class III Trailer Hitch, # 13534, that you have on your 2010 Toyota Highlander does not allow the use of weight distribution. We do have trailer hitches available for your Highlander that are rated for use with weight distribution, however, I strongly recommend checking your owners manual on the use of weight distribution systems. Vehicle manufacturers will prohibit the use of weight distribution systems completely on certain vehicles due to the limitations of the vehicle. This information will be located in the owners manual.

If you find that your Highlander will work with weight distribution, you could replace your Curt trailer hitch with the Draw-Tite Class III Trailer Hitch, # 75726. The installation of this hitch will be similar to the Curt hitch with a few minor frame bracket differences. I have attached an installation video on a 2012 Highlander for you to check out.

After reviewing some specs of the Highlander, it appears that the towing capacity of the Highlander will differ depending on how the vehicle came equipped. If your vehicle did not come with a factory tow package, the towing capacity could be significantly lower than models that came with a tow package. I recommend checking your owners manual or with a Toyota dealer to verify the towing capacity of your specific Highlander. You can provide your VIN to any Toyota dealer and they can give you the specs on your vehicle.

expert reply by: John H