The Toyota Highlander is a popular SUV known for its reliability, comfort, and fuel efficiency. Many Highlander owners dream of hitting the road with a travel trailer, but a crucial question arises: what size RV can a Highlander realistically and safely tow? The answer isn’t as simple as looking at the advertised towing capacity; numerous factors come into play. This guide will delve into the specifics of Highlander towing, helping you determine the perfect RV size for your adventures.
Understanding Your Highlander’s Towing Capacity
The first step is understanding your Highlander’s official towing capacity. This figure, provided by Toyota, represents the maximum weight the vehicle is designed to tow under ideal conditions. Typically, recent Highlander models (2014 onwards) equipped with the V6 engine and the factory-installed tow package have a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. Four-cylinder models generally have a significantly lower towing capacity, often around 2,000 pounds, and are not suitable for towing most RVs.
Finding the Exact Towing Capacity: Look in your Highlander’s owner’s manual. This document provides the most accurate information for your specific year and trim level. A sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb might also list the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Gross Axle Weight Ratings (GAWR), information you’ll need later.
It’s essential to understand that the advertised 5,000-pound limit is a maximum, not a guarantee of effortless towing with any trailer under that weight. Several factors can reduce your Highlander’s actual towing capability.
Beyond the Towing Capacity: Key Considerations
Towing capacity is just one piece of the puzzle. Several other factors significantly impact your Highlander’s ability to safely and effectively tow an RV. Overlooking these factors can lead to dangerous situations and damage to your vehicle.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
The GVWR is the maximum permissible weight of your Highlander when fully loaded. This includes the weight of the vehicle itself, passengers, cargo, and the tongue weight of the trailer. You can find the GVWR on the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb.
Why GVWR Matters: You must ensure that the combined weight of your Highlander and everything inside it (including the trailer tongue weight) does not exceed the GVWR. Exceeding the GVWR puts stress on your vehicle’s suspension, brakes, and engine, potentially leading to mechanical failure.
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)
The GCWR is the maximum permissible weight of your Highlander and the loaded trailer combined. This is another critical number to be aware of. Finding the GCWR can usually be done by consulting the owner’s manual for your specific vehicle.
Calculating Remaining Capacity: To determine how much weight you can safely add (passengers, cargo, trailer) to your Highlander, subtract the vehicle’s curb weight (found in the owner’s manual or online specifications) from the GVWR. Then, to determine the maximum trailer weight your Highlander can tow, subtract the weight of everything in the vehicle (passengers, cargo) from the GCWR.
Tongue Weight
Tongue weight is the amount of weight the trailer exerts on the Highlander’s hitch. It’s generally recommended that tongue weight be between 10% and 15% of the trailer’s total weight.
Impact of Tongue Weight: Too little tongue weight can cause trailer sway, making it difficult to control. Too much tongue weight can overload the Highlander’s rear axle and negatively impact handling. Properly distributing weight within the trailer is essential to achieving the correct tongue weight.
Payload Capacity
Payload capacity is the maximum weight you can carry in your Highlander, including passengers, cargo, and the tongue weight of the trailer.
Calculating Payload: Subtract the Highlander’s curb weight from its GVWR to determine the payload capacity. It is crucial to weigh all passengers and cargo being hauled to not exceed the payload.
Matching RV Types to the Highlander’s Capabilities
Now that you understand the key weight considerations, let’s look at which RV types are most suitable for towing with a Toyota Highlander.
Small Pop-Up Campers
These are the lightest type of RV, often weighing well under 2,000 pounds. A properly equipped Highlander can typically handle a small pop-up camper with ease, even with passengers and cargo. The aerodynamic profile also contributes to better fuel economy while towing.
Teardrop Trailers
Teardrop trailers are another lightweight option, usually weighing between 1,000 and 3,000 pounds. They offer a compact sleeping and storage space, making them a good choice for solo travelers or couples. However, their small size may not be suitable for longer trips or larger families.
Lightweight Travel Trailers
Some lightweight travel trailers, often called “ultra-light” or “lite” models, fall within the Highlander’s towing capacity. Look for models with a dry weight (the weight of the trailer before adding water, cargo, and propane) of under 3,500 pounds. Be sure to factor in the weight of all your gear, water, and propane to ensure you stay within the Highlander’s limits.
Things to Avoid
Larger travel trailers, fifth-wheel trailers, and toy haulers are generally too heavy for a Toyota Highlander. Even if the dry weight seems to be within the 5,000-pound limit, the added weight of cargo, water, and propane can easily exceed the Highlander’s capabilities. Towing a trailer that’s too heavy can be dangerous and damage your vehicle.
Essential Towing Equipment and Accessories
Even if you choose an RV that falls within your Highlander’s towing capacity, you’ll need the right equipment to ensure a safe and comfortable towing experience.
Tow Package
A factory-installed tow package is highly recommended. It typically includes a heavy-duty hitch receiver, wiring harness for trailer lights and brakes, and potentially other upgrades like a transmission cooler. If your Highlander doesn’t have a tow package, you can install an aftermarket hitch, but ensure it’s rated for the weight you intend to tow and consider adding a transmission cooler for enhanced cooling performance.
Weight Distribution Hitch
A weight distribution hitch helps distribute the trailer’s weight more evenly across the Highlander’s axles. This improves handling, reduces sway, and helps prevent the rear of the Highlander from sagging under the weight of the trailer. A weight distribution hitch is especially important when towing heavier trailers.
Sway Control
Sway control devices help minimize trailer sway, a dangerous phenomenon that can make it difficult to control the vehicle. There are various types of sway control, including friction sway control and electronic sway control.
Trailer Brakes
Trailers weighing over a certain amount (typically 3,000 pounds) are required to have their own brakes. A brake controller installed in the Highlander allows you to activate the trailer brakes, providing additional stopping power and improving safety.
Towing Mirrors
Towing mirrors extend your field of vision, allowing you to see past the trailer. This is crucial for safe lane changes and maneuvering.
Tips for Safe Towing with Your Highlander
Once you have the right RV and equipment, it’s essential to practice safe towing habits.
Proper Loading
Distribute weight evenly within the trailer, keeping heavier items low and centered. Avoid placing too much weight in the rear of the trailer, as this can contribute to sway.
Regular Maintenance
Keep your Highlander in good condition with regular maintenance, including oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotations. Before each trip, check the trailer’s tires, lights, and brakes.
Driving Habits
Drive more slowly and cautiously when towing. Increase your following distance, avoid sudden maneuvers, and be aware of your surroundings. Remember that your stopping distance will be significantly longer when towing a trailer.
Practice Makes Perfect
Before embarking on a long trip, practice towing in a safe, open area. This will give you a feel for how the Highlander handles with the trailer and allow you to practice maneuvering and braking.
Plan Your Route
Plan your route carefully, avoiding steep hills, narrow roads, and areas with heavy traffic. These conditions can be challenging when towing a trailer.
Maximizing Your Highlander’s Towing Potential
While the Highlander has limitations, there are ways to maximize its towing potential.
Minimize Cargo
Pack light and avoid carrying unnecessary items in both the Highlander and the trailer. The less weight you carry, the better your Highlander will perform.
Consider Aftermarket Upgrades
While not always necessary, aftermarket upgrades like a transmission cooler or upgraded brakes can improve your Highlander’s towing performance and reliability. Consult with a qualified mechanic before making any modifications.
Monitor Performance
Pay attention to your Highlander’s engine temperature and transmission temperature while towing. If you notice these temperatures rising excessively, pull over and let the vehicle cool down.
Conclusion
Choosing the right RV for your Toyota Highlander requires careful consideration of various factors, including towing capacity, GVWR, GCWR, tongue weight, and payload capacity. By understanding these factors and selecting an appropriately sized and equipped RV, you can enjoy safe and memorable adventures on the road. Remember to prioritize safety and always err on the side of caution when it comes to towing. With the right preparation and equipment, your Highlander can be a capable and reliable tow vehicle for smaller RVs.
Ultimately, research and careful planning will ensure that your RV adventures with your Toyota Highlander are safe, enjoyable, and create lasting memories. Always prioritize safety and be mindful of the limitations of your vehicle. Happy travels!
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Toyota Highlander?
The maximum towing capacity of a Toyota Highlander varies depending on the model year and engine configuration. Generally, newer Highlanders equipped with the V6 engine are rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds. However, it is crucial to consult your specific vehicle’s owner’s manual or the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the precise towing capacity, as variations can occur even within the same model year.
Exceeding the stated towing capacity can lead to serious safety issues, including damage to your vehicle’s transmission, brakes, and suspension. It also increases the risk of accidents due to reduced handling and control, particularly when braking or navigating hills. Always prioritize safety and adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
What factors should I consider beyond the towing capacity when choosing an RV for my Highlander?
Beyond the stated towing capacity, consider the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of both your Highlander and the RV. The GVWR is the maximum permissible weight of the fully loaded RV, including cargo, passengers, and fluids. The GCWR is the maximum combined weight of the Highlander and the fully loaded RV. Ensure that neither the GVWR of the RV nor the combined weight exceeds the respective ratings for your Highlander.
Additionally, payload capacity is critical. This refers to the maximum weight your Highlander can carry, including passengers, cargo, and the tongue weight of the RV. Tongue weight is the downward force exerted by the RV’s hitch on the Highlander’s hitch receiver. A high tongue weight can significantly reduce payload capacity and affect handling. Balancing the load in the RV is also important to maintain stability and avoid excessive sway.
What types of RVs are generally suitable for towing with a Toyota Highlander?
Given the Highlander’s 5,000-pound towing capacity, suitable RV options typically include smaller travel trailers, pop-up campers, teardrop trailers, and some lightweight hybrid trailers. These RVs are designed to be more aerodynamic and lighter in weight than larger, fully equipped travel trailers, making them a better match for the Highlander’s capabilities. Always verify the weight of the specific RV model you are considering before making a purchase.
Avoid larger, heavier travel trailers or fifth-wheel trailers, as these typically exceed the Highlander’s towing capacity and GVWR. Trying to tow beyond the recommended limits can strain the vehicle’s engine and transmission, leading to potential damage and unsafe driving conditions. Prioritize choosing a smaller, lightweight option that falls within the safe towing range.
What towing equipment is necessary for safely towing an RV with a Highlander?
Essential towing equipment includes a properly installed hitch receiver rated for the intended towing weight, a brake controller to synchronize the RV’s brakes with the Highlander’s, and safety chains to prevent the RV from detaching in case of hitch failure. A weight distribution hitch is highly recommended, especially when towing heavier RVs, as it helps distribute the tongue weight more evenly across the Highlander’s axles, improving handling and stability.
Mirrors are crucial for visibility. Towing mirrors that extend beyond the width of the RV are often necessary to provide a clear view of traffic behind the trailer. Also, ensure all lights are properly connected and functioning, including brake lights, turn signals, and running lights, to comply with safety regulations and ensure visibility for other drivers.
How does towing an RV affect the Highlander’s fuel economy?
Towing an RV will significantly reduce the Highlander’s fuel economy. The added weight and aerodynamic drag require the engine to work harder, consuming more fuel. The exact decrease in fuel economy will vary depending on factors such as the weight and size of the RV, the driving speed, terrain, and weather conditions.
Expect a reduction of anywhere from 20% to 50% in fuel economy when towing an RV compared to normal driving conditions. Planning your trips with frequent stops for fuel and budgeting for the increased fuel costs is essential. Driving at a moderate speed and avoiding unnecessary acceleration can help to improve fuel efficiency while towing.
What are some tips for safe towing with a Toyota Highlander?
Before each trip, thoroughly inspect your towing equipment, including the hitch, safety chains, lights, and brakes. Check the tire pressure on both the Highlander and the RV, and ensure that the load is properly balanced within the RV to prevent sway. Practice driving with the RV in a controlled environment before embarking on a long trip to get a feel for how the Highlander handles with the added weight.
Drive at a safe and reduced speed, especially on highways and in windy conditions. Allow for significantly longer stopping distances, and avoid sudden braking or sharp turns. Use lower gears when climbing steep hills to maintain engine power and prevent overheating. Regularly check the mirrors for traffic and to monitor the RV’s behavior.
How can I determine the actual weight of my RV and its cargo?
The best way to determine the actual weight of your RV and its cargo is to weigh it at a certified public scale. Many truck stops, weigh stations, and moving companies offer this service for a small fee. Weigh the RV fully loaded with all your gear, water, and passengers to get an accurate representation of its weight under typical travel conditions.
Compare the actual weight to the RV’s GVWR to ensure you are not exceeding the maximum permissible weight. Knowing the actual weight will help you determine if your Highlander is capable of towing the RV safely and legally. It also helps you to properly adjust your weight distribution hitch and tire pressures for optimal performance and safety.