Adding a hitch to a Highlander. Beware of promises made

[@megross667]

Steven, thank you so much for doing these videos. After watching your prior video a few months back of the 2021 Platinum factory hitch install with the sensor being moved, I wouldn't settle until I found a dealer that could find one with a dealer trade with it factory installed. So glad I waited and didn't settle for an aftermarket install!

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

You will be much happier that way

[@berryjooks]

Thank you Steven! Just bought a new 2021 Highlander Hybrid Limited and wanted a hitch receiver installed. The dealership called me to say that they would need to disable "kick to open" to add the hitch, I started googling and found you. I sent your video to my dealership and they ordered the new bumper, in midnight black metallic to match the truck, with the offset kick sensor. Works like a charm and looks great. You rock!

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

beautiful. happy to help. thank you for your comment and subscribing

[@Jbroko]

Hey bud , how much did it cost you if you dont mind me asking

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

@@Jbroko I believe its around 1200-1500 to add after the fact

[@FoxRidaFTW]

@berryjooks did you have to get a whole new bumper or just a new rear fascia?

[@navids79]

@@stevenwelchtoyota just talked to my dealer, they said the same thing and asked for $1400 to move the kick sensor, but I forgot to ask if they need to get new gray piece for the bumper!

[@johnpainter4697]

I just bought a 2023 Highlander LE 3 days ago. Your advice to "be careful" is timely. During the negotiations I asked the salesman to provide me with information on what I needed to pay to have a hitch installed by Toyota dealer. I intended to pay out of pocket. I asked him a second time for that info after we closed. He did not respond. I called the service department and was quoted an install price of $2500 for the original equipment install. $911 parts and 8 hours and $1640 for labor, which included running wires to the front of the vehicle to plug into the computer. Splicing into the wires at the rear of the vehicle would not suffice. U-haul offered me an aftermarket hitch installed for $483. No wiring to the computer. Just old fashioned splicing into the tail lamps and brake lamps. They said they install in this manner and have never had any problems. The U-haul hitch is mounted lower than the bumper. The OEM hitch is mounted into a cut into the bumper. I am not a happy camper.

[@mattsutube]

So you went with U-haul hitch? Looking at same 2021 Highlander lease return purchase. Thanks you!

[@countonme9893]

I installed one. And it will disable the kick sensor.

[@giq8747]

Aftermarket parts can void warranties.. be careful..find out 1st before doing anything.

[@michaelhayes2209]

Post the name of the dealership. Charging 8 hours labor is egregiously dishonest.

[@russellgrosvenor683]

I purchased a 2022 Highlander Platinum. Part of the purchase was they would sell me the hitch parts at wholesale, and I installed it myself. Parts cost in the six hundreds. Took a day or so to install, but it is just as if it were a factory installation. Great instruction sheets were provided. Shorter kick sensor works perfectly on the left side of the hitch. This is a heavier duty hitch than the aftermarket hitches i looked at. Also, new underneath covers are provided; no trim cutting required that you have to do with the aftermarket. Very pleased!

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

great. it is time consuming to add it

[@rajendramodusu5980]

Where u putlrchased tgat I hv same highlander

[@skonasa]

Do you have the parts list. I have the same, want to order and install it myself. thanks

[@bobmilo2786]

I bought a 21 limited. The dealership i bought the car from said adding a hitch would be expensive and the kick sensor would likely not work. I went to another dealer closer to home. The service manager there actually knew what he was talking about. Toyota hitch installed with wiring harness and a kick sensor relocation kit. Also a replaced rear bumper panel. Looks great and cost just over $1300. I would have ordered the limited with the hitch but inventory is scarce during the pandemic.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

exactly

[@navids79]

Hi there, do you mind sharing a picture of the result? Did they order same color bumper for you ? Does the new bumper has the kick sensor sign on the left like what Steven showed in the video ? Thanks

[@bobmilo2786]

@@navids79 yes the bumper panel is the original color and the kick sensor is on left side of bumper. Works great.

[@Nicole-tz5xq]

Was this $1300usd installed

[@cgan2013]

Had this very problem just today!! I bought my Limited ‘21 Highlander a week ago without a hitch. I paid extra for a genuine Toyota hitch. They told me to come back, leave it overnight and they would install it. I saw this video BEFORE I brought in back for the install…I was promised left and right that it would be the genuine Toyota hitch that is recessed into the bumper. Came in to pick it up and guess what?? It was an after-market hitch installed UNDER the bumper, with the 4-point power cord zip-tied to the hitch mount! 🤦🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️ I told them no way, Jose!! I knew this would happen, despite the “promises”!! (Asheville Fred Anderson Toyota, Asheville, NC). Spoke to mgmt and demanded it be replaced. They agreed they would swap it out, but now I have to wait weeks for the replacement to come in….and ANOTHER trip to the dealer. Like mentioned in this video…they will try to get away with a cheaper after-market version!! Stay on their a$$!!

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Happy to help

[@tinosailing]

so , did you find a place where they do the original work?

[@garlicworm]

Zip-tying to the hitch mount might not be a bad idea. My power cord is firmly attached to a fixture on the bumper, and its ground prong somehow got knocked out. The dealer wants $195 to fix this -- $80 for the harness, and $115 for the labor. Evidently the wiring harness is not separable into components, and the dealer is not willing to do a handyman-type repair. I'm thinking of gluing a nail into the cavity where the prong once was. I've stuck a nail there, and a test shows that the connections are good.

[@eddie7126]

They did the same to me, even told me that there's two sides to the story when I went to pick up the vehicle and told them that they had installed the after market when I clearly stated I wanted the original Toyota hitch.

[@mem0ut]

Keep the highlander videos coming! Appreciate all the quirky tidbits. Ordered mine, just patiently waiting.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Thank you. Happy to help

[@michaelhayes2209]

Thanks for the heads up! We may pick up a CPO ‘22 Platinum and want the OEM hitch for bike rack and perhaps occasional towing. More aesthetically pleasing having the OEM setup (and functional for tongue weight) but want to be damn sure it’s done properly dropping $40k on a used vehicle.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

I agree. Done right is important

[@DB57RB]

You sir are a great Toyota community member. Thank you for sharing great information for Highlander owners.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

I appreciate that!

[@mikebelfry3968]

Glad I found this video. I'm getting a hitch on my 2024, but don't require the trailer wiring. Just the hitch. So, if I get an after-marker hitch which hangs below the bumper, will that interfere with the kick sensor (antenna) itself? Will I lose the function of the kick sensor?

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

it will cause the sensor not to work

[@raulortiz1757]

Thank you for doing this video. It helps me out a lot. I am in the market for one of these with a hitch.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

@@raulortiz1757 happy to help. Please subscribe

[@OgaMarshal.comedy]

This is wonderful sir I love your handwork sir I deal on spare parts here in Nigeria,, Therefore I can be your faithful distributor here in Nigeria, I will work for you with obedience and faithfulness

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Thanks for sharing

[@InfinitismYT]

Thanks for the video! I need this hitch on my Highlander! Is there a part number?

[@johnpainter4697]

I passed on the U-haul $400 install as it was clear they were going to just splice into the tail lamp wiring with no concern about computer driven amperage draw issues. My dealer started with a bid of $2500 and after I complained lowered the factory installed version to about $1600. They claim it takes 8 hours for an install requiring running wires forward to the engine computer and programming the proper draw into the computer. If I recall correctly, parts alone were maybe $500.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

You should be able to get it done for less than 2k

[@josephinebustos8074]

I bought the tow hitch when I bought mine. Dealer installed it on my 2017 limited platinum.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

its best for the right one to be installed

[@diigger4791]

I had the hitch added by the dealer, since I added it with the purchase it is covered by the Toyota warranty. The hitch is a factory hitch [ i was told] and is the exact same part as if it was put on by the factory. There was an issue with the sensor. It was moved from the middle to the side, and it did not work correctly. There is a new, and different sensor for the Highlander with a hitch that is dealer installed and my dealer was on top of this right away. It is fixed and works perfectly. My vehicle is a 2024 Highlander Platinum trim. I believe the issues may with the dealer trying to cheap out the install and add pass off a non-Toyota hitch as the genuine item or the customer was trying to save a buck and agreed to an aftermarket part and created the issue for themselves.

[@johnleibowitz1423]

The local Toyota dealer here, in response to our request for a hitch to be added on the 2021 Highlander, said that if they did it, they would take it to Uhaul and have them install an aftermarket hitch. We then asked about the parts needed to install a factory hitch ourselves and the parts I looked up appear to be for the RAV4 and Class II rated. These are the part numbers from the dealer: PT228-48212, PT228-48213, PK960-42K10, PK5D0-42K11-WH Can you tell me what part numbers I would actually need to order to install the factory hitch (and wiring, bumper covers, etc) on the 2021 Highlander? Thank you!

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Email me at [e-mail] I will send you the list

[@brandonpham4641]

Is there a platinum bumper part number (with tow hitch cut out) and a short kick sensor part number you can give ? Thank you

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

email me at [e-mail] i will send it to you

[@navids79]

@@stevenwelchtoyota I just emailed you too, I was wondering if you could send me that info too Steven. 🙏

[@wackodacko4804]

@steven Welch I sent an email. Own a 2021 Highlander XSE. I installed all the components for the OEM hitch. The kick sensor doesn’t attach to the new bumper. Is there a part number for the bumper with the tabs that holds the kick sensor bracket in place?

[@terrysaunders2026]

My 2007 Toyota Sienna came without a hitch. I went to the local hitch guru and had him put a good hitch on for me. He did a great job, and I used it a lot. The problem was that it hung too low. The hitch would scrape any time I went through or over a dip or bump. The narrator mentions it hanging low, but stops short of mentioning the scraping.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

ITs all about how you install the hitch

[@hijinx4u]

Thank you for the honesty

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

No problem

[@ralphhross]

You make some good points. However, the eTrailer hitch is easy to install - only 6 hardened steel bolts which Toyota kindly already has the threaded holes ready for you that match up perfectly. It looks pretty good, maybe not as fancy looking as factory - but same functionality. It will be a little lower, however you just make your height adjustment via a ball mount with your desired rise or drop and you are good to go.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

True but you may scrape the bottom

[@christopherblackwell7511]

That is correct. Everyone is entitled to their opinion. Many do not mind the aftermarket options that install easily underneath the bumper. There are plug and play wire harnesses as well to avoid any splicing of wires. We also install wiring brackets. Cant believe dealer zip tied them. I've done plenty of them and my customers were always satisfied with the quality, look, price and timely installation!

[@nc8524]

Wow this is very useful info to me! Thank you. Ive been looking for Highlander used with hitch bc learned v6 can tow 5000 lbs just like the 4Runner does. Ive had a hard time finding one with hitch though and thought they came standard on limited? Read highlander 8 " clearance and 4Runner 9". Since dont need to offroad, think highlander good fit since better gas mileage and need something higher off ground.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

The hitch is not standard on any highlander it's always an option

[@nc8524]

@@stevenwelchtoyota thank you! I probably misread some details as I've been trying to absorb a lot. That means it may be a rare find! Since I'm looking for older vehicle and want to eventually tow small trailer maybe 4Runner...but I could be happy w Highlander w/o tow for price.

[@larryf6993]

Steve do I need to buy a factory hitch setup if I only want to carry a rear bicycle rack that needs to hook to a hitch on a 2022 Toyota limited Highlander?

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Nom you can get the under slung one if you want. Make sure you get factory wiring if you choose to wire it

[@katd6580]

@@stevenwelchtoyota Okay, I if am hearing you right, I just got a white Higlander Limited 2022 that did not have a hitch. I had to buy what they had... All I want is a hitch to carry bikes...so you are saying I can go somewhere else and get the cheaper hitch and I will be fine? I was quoted at dealship, including install...around $1200

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

@@katd6580 if you dont want the electrical you can get it cheaper if you dont care how it looks you can get that cheaper

[@rockyman9989]

Thank you for sharing it with us, Is the sienna has the same tow hitch issue?

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

No. The sienna has to hang below there is no other way to install it

[@ericeasley3951]

2021 limited with hitch from factory had to order it and now I see on the Toyota website you can’t add one on the limited trim right now

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

they have had supply issues

[@MrPatMci]

Hi Steven - Thanks for the video on this! We have a 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum and wants to get a Toyota hitch installed at local dealer. They told me the kick sensor would have to be disabled. Wondering if I can point them in the right direction in terms of parts/etc. to have it properly installed and the kick sensor relocated? Appreciate any thoughts you might have on it!

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

there is a fix for it. email me at [e-mail]

[@MrPatMci]

@@stevenwelchtoyota Thanks Steven! I sent an email little earlier today.

[@MrPatMci]

@@stevenwelchtoyota Thanks again Steven for sending the Toyota parts sheet! Just got our 2021 Toyota Highlander Platinum Hybrid back from dealer hitch install and we are really happy with how it turned out. Bumper matches the grey bumper that comes with the Moon Dust colored vehicle and has the offset kick sensor to the left with the 'wifi' symbol.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

@@MrPatMci great

[@sainjennyyang7846]

Hi Steven, I’m so glad that you did this video! Super helpful and resourceful. I was wondering if I can get that same list/info too. I have a 2021 Highlander Platinum hybrid and have been looking into getting a hitch installed and found your video.

[@jonipizza]

I already have the lower aftermarket hitch installed, but without any wiring. Now I plan to add the electric wiring to tow a small trailer in the future. What would you recommend doing? Will a dealership be willing to install just the oem electric wiring on the already present aftermarket hitch ?

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

They will do it. Make certain you use the right wire harness or you will have issues

[@sheldons231]

That's good info, but the problem I have is it is only a 5000 lb hitch with a 500 lb tongue weight. Now, I would never knowingly go over the 5000 lb limit, but most towing guides say you should have a 10 t0 15% tongue weight, which is 500 to 750 pounds. That is why I went aftermarket, that and I wanted a 7 pin towing harness not a 4. Why doesn't Toyota do what everyone else is doing, hitch and 7 pin harness on their upper models automatically.?

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

The tow rating max for the vehicle is 5000 lbs. Put a 10000 hitch on it and it is still 5000 pounds. Don't go over it

[@sheldons231]

@stevenwelchtoyota I know and follow that explicitly, but I have always liked thing like trailer hitches or anything that take a lot of strain to be a little stronger than needed.

[@Jtlaptops]

For me personally i do not use kick sensor with our '24 Limited ! I have owned all generations so I'm just use to remote fob..

[@CariocanoGelo]

I am looking for a Grand highlander hybrid max with hitch but at the website I notice it came only with a 4 pins plug! How can I hitch a trailer with no brakes? Do you know if Toyota will add a 7 pins plug on 2025?

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

@@CariocanoGelo none will come with a 7way plug only the 4 pin

[@dmv_sm1704]

Hey Steven, can you possibly do a vid on using the hands free power lift gate with factory tow hitch installed? Mine sometimes seems to work and sometimes it doesn’t lol… is there a specific technique? Short kick? Long kick? Fast or slow kick? 😂 idk I cant seem to get it right

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Will do

[@milissarowell9877]

Thank you for the heads up!

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

You bet!

[@garyblack7677]

Steven, Thank you! I have a 2009 Highlander (3.5L V6 Base model) with the tow package. I plan to add a hitch to take advantage of 5000 lb. tow capacity. Am I correct this issue with the factory hitch doesn't apply to me?

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

correct

[@catlovesthebeach]

I hear that Toyota will only do the 4 pin wiring, and I need 7 pin wiring. Is that a problem with a factory hitch? Thanks

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

It only has the 4 pin but you can get an adapter to the 7way but it wont actuate the brakes

[@keilarosado2709]

Thank you so much for doing these videos...

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Happy to help

[@michellecooper7966]

I currently own a 2018 Highlander XLE and we just purchased a 2021 Highlander Limited. We have a dealership installed Toyota hitch with out electric (only use for a bike rack) on the 2018. Can we have them take off the hitch on the 2018 and put it on the 2021 Limited (no electric needed) Our dealership is telling us they can switch "probably" and would just need to order a new bumper piece for the limited. Our limited is in moondust color. We cannot wait for a different car and need to use for our bike rack. We are picking up the car Monday and I am nervous because we have not received a straight answer. I do not want to purchase a new hitch if I can use the hitch I had Toyota put on my 2018. Buying a bumper piece is a lot cheaper than a hole entire hitch.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

The hitches are different part numbers. The 21 highlander has a different frame. Can it be modified to fit? Most likely but I have not heard of anyone doing it

[@michellecooper7966]

Thanks we are going to get the 2021 hitch instead of swapping.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

@@michellecooper7966 that is what I would suggest

[@mjoslin1990]

Is the code still DH for 2024 grand highlander (platinum)? Making preparations to buy one, but only like the look of manufactured vs aftermarket. The video was TERRIFIC info. I didn't even notice some of my local dealers photos didn't even have the hitch installed (on 2023s).

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

It is DH on the Grand as well yes

[@wackodacko4804]

Hello Steve I’ve installed the OEM tow hitch on my 2021 Highlander XSE And it looks amazing. Can the kick sensor be install in this configuration and if so what is the part number for the bumper cover. The bumper cover I have does not have the tabs that allow the kick sensor bracket to be installed to it. Your videos have been of great assistance. Thank you for your help! John

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

email me at [e-mail]. I will send you the parts list

[@LlNNEY]

Does this mean you can add a kick sensor to an XSE?

[@stonepa]

Look at all those new Highlanders. Fast forward to today and my local dealer has 3 new Toyotas on his entire lot.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

funny what a couple years does

[@HoormazdKia]

Steve! I emailed you. Cant tell you how much I appreciate your video here. Just purchased a Toyota Highlander Hybrid AWD Limited Edition and I've gotten two quotes with different suggested parts. I'm pretty sure both are wrong or incomplete.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

I saw it. i will have to look. The most common issue is the back panel can be gray on a platinum or black on the limited and peoplenseem to confuse it

[@HoormazdKia]

@@stevenwelchtoyota thanks man i appreciate ya

[@splatmacpuffin]

Dealerships charge 3-4 times more for a factory hitch install on a 2019.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

And there is nearly a 100% chance it's done right. Wiring is not spliced, you dont have things rigged and the hitch fits properly and will do what it's supposed to. The first time you pay to replaced fried wiring in your vehicle you will see how the cheap will be very expensive

[@splatmacpuffin]

@@stevenwelchtoyota I’ve seen lots of service items and parts replacements that dealers have done wrong. Personally have been the victim of their stupidity. Leaving oil filler cap off after oil change. Another time they left a wrench under the hood which got jammed in my serpentine belt. I have minimal faith in dealership service centres especially when the costs are much higher.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

@@splatmacpuffin anyone can make a mistake but the cheap aftermarket parts can hurt your car

[@cassiemarie859]

@@stevenwelchtoyota just did this with my 2019 highlander, definitely prefer the quality of the dealership in comparison to what was done with my parents vehicle... which is now having issues with shorting etc. also much more streamline appearance

[@cassiemarie859]

@@splatmacpuffin time to run far and fast from that dealer and get one you trust who does good work. I couldn't be more happy with williams toyota

[@opisupra]

Hey man. I love your video. I would like to buy a 2022 Highlander AWD with the HD hitch from you. What's the walkout price? I am from GA. Thank you

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

The prices can vary depending on options. We cant directly order from Toyota so we get what they send

[@eddie7126]

I recently bought a 2022 Toyota Highlander and requested that they install a OEM hitch and made it very clear that I didn't want the after market hitch. When I went to pick up my vehicle it had the after market installed, when I brought it to their attention they said "there's two sides to the story..." I won't be servicing my vehicle at that dealership.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Wow. I would be taking that up their managment chain

[@eddie7126]

@@stevenwelchtoyota I did, they said they will call me when the other hitch arrives, thank you for responding.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

@@eddie7126 it's the difference between a $1400 hitch done right and a $400 price if they do it the way you said. Watch for them to try to get out of it. The hitches are available and have been so dont accept too long of a backorder claim in the hope that you just take what you got

[@eddie7126]

@@stevenwelchtoyota thank you, they originally wanted $1,300 and I asked if they would do it for $1,000 considering that I had just paid $45,000 for the vehicle, perhaps they though I wasn't going to notice the difference between the hitches, I just can't figure out why they would do this, when I clearly stated I wanted to the original part.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

@@eddie7126 it's not uncommon. It's one of the reasons I made the video

[@jwd0808]

When I bought my 2020 Limited I originally wanted a hitch but there were none available and I couldn't wait 3 months. I asked if I can add the hitch later and I was told it would only be a few hundred, so I said OK. I priced out adding the hitch and it came to about $1,600. Needless to say I'm going with another option like the basic u-haul hitch for around $390. Sure it's not as pretty as the Toyota version, and I almost never use kick option.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Be careful the way they wire the hitch can damage your car. The hitch part is all well and good but they use a low amperage wire system and the cut and splice techniques that some people use will make you wish you paid the extra.

[@ccaddy11]

What Steve failed to mention here is that the factory kit is aprx $1600 CAN vs $300/$400 for an after market one . If like me you only use a hitch for a bike rack , the extra exspence of factory over after market that looks subjectively prettier is definatley not worth the 1000 + dollars . The differance in hitch height is also a non issue for a bike rack .

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

@@ccaddy11 you are correct you can throw a aftermarket hitch on one. The vast majority of people that have reached out to me and the reason for the video is people want the factory hitch, and they want it to look like the factory hitch. Also if you splice the wires you are likely going to cause electrical issues unless you use the Toyota wire kit which does not cut and splice wires.

[@beefruitful1056]

Hi on a 2012 Highlander I believe I can only tow 2k pounds. Is there a way to beef it up to Safely pull more or that’s it?

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Towing is specific to the engine transmission frame strength and the braking capability and will be rated to the weakest part. I would believe the rating

[@micahelijah40]

What is the factory hitch number for 2022 limited awd Highlander

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

email me at [e-mail]

[@denverbarker9899]

Hi Steven, just picked up a Bronze edition and looking to add a hitch. Is it considered a XLE or a limited? Also it supposedly has a kick sensor. Thanks!

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

use the parts for the Limited. It is based on the XLE but you are correct to use the limited pieces unless you want the grey rear bumper then you use the platinum kit.

[@johnfontaine1257]

Hi- question now regarding the new Highlander XSE trim model. During pricing I asked the dealership to order and install the factory tow hitch. They ordered it, and called and said due to this new model and the new rear bumper on the XSE the kick sensor cannot be installed, it wont fit. They said I could have the tow hitch but the function of the kick would not be available any longer. Anyone install it successful on the XSE 2024 model?

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Easy answer kzbin.info/www/bejne/moiymZ-Hl5V_Zqc

[@ajaly6447]

What if you add one thru the toyota dealer

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

It should be right but not all dealers install the dealer part

[@johnpainter4697]

BTW - My Highlander is a Hybrid. Not sure if that makes a difference in regard to the wiring. Anyone know? The kick to open issue does not apply - as does not come on this lower trim level.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

It uses the same hitch and wiring on both hybrid and non for similar trim levels

[@erod9003]

What if I bought one without the hitch? I bought an XSE without the hitch, I made the mistake of not checking if it had the hitch. How do I make sure the correct one is installed? I don’t have the kick sensor, but I do want it to be flush rather then coming from the bottom of the bumper

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Make sure you wash for factory parts. If it is less than 1200 to 1400 to install you are not getting it like factory

[@tinosailing]

hello I am getting a new highlander hybrid limited and they want to add the hitch but they want to add it underthe bumper.... they are saying is original from toyota but looks so ugly that I dont want it , what do you think?

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Toyota does not offer one that hangs below the bumper. You will most likely regret doing it if you do it that way

[@tinosailing]

@@stevenwelchtoyota thank you so who does the right job? Toyota doesn’t

[@tinosailing]

@@stevenwelchtoyota sent you an email yesterday. Here in CT toyoya looks like ONLY offer the hitch under the bumper...so I am trying to find where I can do the correct and original work. Could you guide me? thank you so much!

[@gardinerkennedy5398]

I have a 2022 Limited and can't find the parts for my local dealership. Is there an easy way to look them up?

[@rajendramodusu5980]

I want to tow my highlander from front and i will use F150 for towing highlander My goal is to go 250 miles and i dont want to put tgat many miles on highlander bcz if return i include it will be 500 miles and i have brand new 2023 highlander Is it possible to install tow hook in front If i dont want to install hitch on back Please give me options

[@chrisconn5649]

Sure, aftermartket (approx $400) you lose the kick sensor, however Toyota quoted me $1400 for an official hitch - that feature is not worth $1000 to keep the kick sensor personally.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Up to you

[@chrisconn5649]

@@stevenwelchtoyota I appreciate your video\info all the same!

[@richardcasey7521]

Can I get a Toyota OEM trailer hitch for my 2021 Highlander XSE? My XSE has the two exhaust pipes tips side by side on the right rear of the car. The XSE doesn’t have the ‘kick to open’ feature.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Yes

[@jorgecalicdan7367]

Hi there steve, i have a 2017 toyota higjlander and i added tow hitch on it , do i need a transmission coolant? And how much load can i put into it?

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

They are rated for 5000 with a AWD and 3500 with FWD. Most people dont do the tranny cooler on them

[@starmatt3222]

Steve, if I would like to install the tow hitch on my highlander, does the dealership do installation of towhitch?

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

yes

[@Jaypatel-rc8js]

Why dealership charge more than msrp..??

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Due to the shortages alot of dealers are charging over msrp

[@johnjuza2659]

If a toyota dealer puts on a factory hitch, everything should work like it comes from the factory, if it does not you got ripped off!!! Is this just the platinum and limited? I will let you know mine is being installed today from toyota!

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

The only ones that have the kick sensor are the limited and platinum but the hitch can be wrong on any of them. Also you need to have the factory harness as well or it can cause more issues

[@navids79]

Do you mind shaping picture of the result?Does the new bumper look similar as the original and same color ? Could you please share part number for all used for this replacement

[@RC_stuff]

How much does it cost ot have a factory hitch installed on 2022 Highlander LE? Thanks.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

usually 1200 to 1400

[@brandimeyers8408]

So if I don’t have the kick open feature am I ok to add a hitch?

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Yes

[@cassiemarie859]

thanks steve! and in the rain too :-)

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

happy to help

[@heathercassells3338]

How much extra is the item?

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

usually 1400 give or take

[@Justthenormalful]

Just bought a 2022 XLE Highlander, no kickopen, and looking to install a hitch but would use the e-trailer wiring kit TK99FR which plugs right into the system behind the panel in back. Any problems with those?

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

I would only use the oem

[@Justthenormalful]

@@stevenwelchtoyota Its the same unit Toyota supplies , just plug and play and works same way. So I do not see your point other than price wise, Toyota over priced it

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

@@Justthenormalful toyota has very strict specs on the wiring of the vehicle and uses a low voltage wire system. According to them most of the aftermarket options will cause a power draw and may cause wiring issues within the vehicle.

[@track1go]

What about an XSE?

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

It can be added. The xse does not have the kick sensor so it is the same as the xle.

[@Dliscin]

I want to add a 2" hitch to 2020 Highlander Platinum to use with Thule bicycle carrier. I do not need electrical. eTrailers says Curt #C99FR fits the vehicle. They also say that the kick sensor will still work - it will sense on either side of the hitch. Can anyone verify that the kick sensor will still work with the C99FR installed ? Thanks

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

the kick sensor would need to be shut off for that hitch

[@silverfox401]

Damm thing doesn’t have tow hooks in the front it has the spot or holes but no no hooks

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Only the Japanese built one has tow hooks

[@silverfox401]

@@stevenwelchtoyota thank you for the reply

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

@@silverfox401 no problem

[@michaeltrinh2332]

Hi Steven - love your videos. I am in the market for a hitch for my 2021 Highlander Hybrid Platinum. Wondering if you can share what the part numbers are for the various components. Appreciate your help!!

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

email me at [e-mail]

[@garlicworm]

For some reason, a comment I made 18 hours ago is gone. Sorry to bother you all, but I'm posting a test to see if this happens again. My comment was a short, straightforward question about the hitch I had installed. Again, sorry to bother you.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

better?

[@garlicworm]

@@stevenwelchtoyota Yes. This comment has survived. However, one that I made earlier was deleted in a few minutes. I read for three hours or more about this issue -- many hundreds of complaints about deleted comments, from both the commenters and the runners of the channel. Lots of channel runners are concerned that they are being accused of deleting the comments, and they are worried about offending people and losing revenue. This has been going on for months for many people. Hundreds of sample deleted comments were provided, none of them offensive. I will again post my original question and see if it survives.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

@@garlicworm I only delete comments that use bad language or inappropriate content or links. Even if I disagree with the comment I leave it if it is within those standards

[@garlicworm]

@@stevenwelchtoyota I figured that was the case. Like I say, I saw hundreds and hundreds of complaints about perfectly decent comments being deleted within moments of being posted. My comment about my hitch experience was deleted within minutes. I entered it again in this thread, and within seconds later it was deleted, too. Yet so far, this comment has survived, even though my additional comment gets deleted. I suppose this comment will be deleted, too.

[@garlicworm]

PLUS, when I go to your channel, the ads that come up are in Spanish! This doesn't happen with other channels. Later edit: Well, now they're coming up in English again.

[@ChowHound1337]

I've never seen so many highlanders at 1 dealer

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

we are a big dealer. unfortunately at the moment new inventory is scarce

[@opisupra]

Thank you so much.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

You're welcome!

[@haroldmiller6991]

Thanks for these videos! I ordered a 2021 Limited Highlander Hybrid and was not aware of the hitch limitation. Adding a hitch for the build was not an option yet was told I could add one later. The Highlander should be in this week and was told by the body shop manager Toyota does not yet have a solution for the hitch/receiver option. Do you know if the new "kick sensors" can be used with a limited hybrid? And more importantly can the dealer install this option on a 2021 Limited Highlander Hybrid?

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

They can and the parts are available. Please take the advice in the video to make sure you are not disappointed

[@77busalman]

Hello sir I just had Toyota install hitch on higlander xle , do I lose back up sensor or something?

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Should not lose anything on a xle

[@77busalman]

@@stevenwelchtoyota thank you sir

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

@@77busalman no problem

[@thienthan324]

How much did you pay and where are you from?

[@frgibson]

I think the kick sensor can be turned off in the vehicle settings.

[@prezaricardo1749]

Thanks

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Welcome

[@larryo7112]

Hi Steven, I own a 2020 Highlander Platinum. Can I call my Toyota dealer and get a hitch put on so it looks like the 2021 factory hitch? Anything I need to be specific about so they don't bolt on a hitch that hangs underneath? And I don't really care if the toe kick thing gets disabled. Thanks!

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

You would have to tell them you want the factory hitch and not the aftermarket and be specific

[@kalvinhawj1359]

Can you add a hitch to a 2021 Highlander XSE?

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

Yes

[@cutiepiepdxo]

This was confusing. Long story short, make sure the hitch is factory or it will be installed lower?

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

And you could have electrical issues

[@OgaMarshal.comedy]

I deal on hitch here in Nigeria,, you can refer me to those who needs it here in Nigeria and I will buying from you and supplying them

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

thanks

[@mannym.andcoyoteridgemtb171]

You talk in circles for minutes repeating the same thing without saying what is the problem.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

what did you miss?

[@DoctorFixMaster]

This video could be condensed considerably. It's about an 8 minute video and it has about 45 seconds worth of key information.

[@stevenwelchtoyota]

I tried to make certain I was abundantly clear and helped the most amount of people