If you’re a Toyota Highlander owner or considering purchasing one, you might be wondering: does my Highlander have a tow package? Whether you plan to tow a trailer, camper, or boat, knowing whether your vehicle is equipped for the task is crucial for both safety and performance. This article will guide you through the key indicators, methods to verify a tow package, and tips for how to equip your Highlander if it doesn’t already have one. By the end, you’ll be well-informed and confident in your understanding of your vehicle’s towing capabilities.
Understanding the Importance of a Tow Package
Before diving into the nitty-gritty details of identifying a tow package, it’s important to understand why it matters. A tow package doesn’t just mean your car can hitch a trailer—it signifies that your vehicle has the necessary engineering enhancements to safely handle increased loads.
Key Benefits of a Tow Package Include:
- Better heat management in transmission through a built-in cooler
- Enhanced suspension and frame support for towing
- Reinforced hitch mounting points
- Prewired electrical connections for trailer lights and brakes
- Optimized engine and transmission tuning for consistent towing
If your Highlands does not have a proper tow package, attempting to tow heavy loads can risk engine wear, transmission failure, overheating, or even accidents due to poor handling. Therefore, verifying if your vehicle has a tow-ready system is the first step toward responsible towing.
What Is a Tow Package on a Toyota Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander’s tow package is an engineered system designed by Toyota to ensure safe and efficient towing. It’s not just a hitch — it’s a set of integrated components that work together to support heavier loads. If your vehicle comes with a factory tow package, it means Toyota has approved it for up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity depending on engine and trim.
A standard Highlander tow package generally includes:
Trailer Hitch Receiver
This is the physical point where you attach your trailer hitch. Toyota offers a factory trailer hitch receiver that integrates seamlessly with the Highlander’s design, hidden behind a panel in the bumper area. It’s rated to accept a Class III receiver style with a 2-inch opening.
Transmission Cooler
Towing generates heat, especially when pulling loads in hot climates or hilly terrain. A larger, auxiliary cooler for the transmission ensures longevity and prevents overheating—often a standout feature of a factory-installed tow package.
Engine and Transmission Enhancements
The vehicle may include upgraded software in the engine control unit (ECU) that adjusts shift patterns to optimize power delivery during towing. These improvements typically occur when a 3.5L V6 engine is selected over the hybrid version, especially in older model years.
Heavy-Duty Suspension Components
In some models, Toyota may outfit a rear stabilizer bar and reinforced suspension to handle the additional weight and maintain even handling both on and off the highway.
Wiring Harness for Trailer Lights and Brakes
Properly functioning trailer lights, turn signals, and brake lights make towing legal and safe. Factory wiring harnesses are usually prewired under the dash or along the vehicle frame, ready for a plug-in harness that connects to the trailer.
Why Knowing About This Matters
Toyota does not include the tow package as standard on all Highlander trims. Instead, it’s usually offered on specific trim levels or as an optional upgrade. That means whether you already have the tow package depends on the particular vehicle you purchased or are considering.
How to Determine if Your Highlander Has a Tow Package
Now that you know what the tow package entails, here are several reliable ways to check if your Toyota Highlander comes with one.
Check the Owner’s Manual
The clearest starting point is your owner’s manual. Toyota typically specifies towing capabilities for each trim level and package combination in the manual.
Follow these steps:
- Locate the section on “Towing” or “Technical Specifications.”
- Look for a mention of “Tow Package” or “Towing Prep Package.”
- Review the specified tow capacity. If it’s listed as up to 5,000 lbs, you likely have a tow package.
If the manual refers to your Highlander having a 3,500-lb capacity with no mention of a tow package, your SUV likely does not come with integrated towing features.
Review Your Vehicle’s Window Sticker (Monroney Label)
If you’re still in possession of the original buyer’s documentation, the window sticker contains detailed build information. This label usually includes options selected at purchase, including the tow package.
What to Look For:
- Look for line items such as “Tow Package,” “Towing Prep Package,” or “Trailer Hitch.”
- It might also be under a section labeled “Optional Equipment” or “Factory Installed Accessories.”
If purchased used, ask the dealer or previous owner for the Monroney label. Alternatively, you can use VIN lookup tools online such as Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book (KBB), or the Toyota owners portal to retrieve configuration data.
Inspect the Vehicle’s VIN Build Code
Toyota uses a system of factory codes that indicate which features are included with a particular VIN. You can enter your VIN into platforms like Toyota Owners, Edmunds, or third-party tools such as DecodeVIN Audit to determine if your Highlander’s VIN has specific options, including the towing package.
Key code abbreviations to look for:
| Code | Description |
|---|---|
| 240 | Towing Package |
| P02 | Tow Package (on select years) |
Note: These codes may vary across model years, so it’s best to use an official Toyota VIN decoder when possible.
Examine the Physical Indicators
Sometimes the best way to know if you have a tow package is to look for tangible signs—both under the hood and around the vehicle’s rear.
Check the Front Grille Area
A Highlander with a tow package often has larger air inlets in the front fascia to allow more airflow to the cooling systems. Additionally, look for a transmission cooler mounted near the radiator and condenser.
Inspect Underneath the Rear Bumper
Check the rear bumper cover—if a Class III trailer hitch is installed, it will be visible behind a small removable panel. If present, this is a strong indication your vehicle came with a factory-mounted hitch.
Look for a 4-Pin or 7-Pin Connector Behind the Bumper
Most tow package-equipped Highlanders have a wiring harness behind the bumper, either tucked under the bumper cover or mounted inside the trunk area. It’s commonly labeled for trailer use and plugs into a standardized trailer light connector.
Transmission Pan Check for Extra Coolers
Toyota often uses a deeper transmission pan or separate auxiliary transmission cooler mounted front and center for cooling efficiency. If you’re mechanically inclined, look for these on the passenger side of the radiator or near the lower portion of the transmission housing.
Contact an Official Toyota Dealer
Another surefire way is to use your vehicle identification number (VIN) and ask a certified Toyota technician or customer service agent whether your Highlander came equipped with a tow package.
This method is especially useful if you’re unsure of a prior owner’s configuration or suspect prior modifications. Provide your VIN and they can run a report through Toyota’s internal systems.
Trim and Configuration Differences to Consider
Not all trims and engine configurations offer the same towing potential. This is especially important if you are looking for a used Highlander or purchasing one secondhand.
Towing Capabilities by Engine Variant
| Engine | Towing Capacity (Without Trailer Brake Controller) |
Towing Capacity (With Factory Tow Package) |
|---|---|---|
| 3.5L V6 (Gas) | Up to 3,500 lbs | Up to 5,000 lbs |
| Hybrid V6 | Up to 1,500 lbs | Up to 3,500 lbs |
This table highlights a key issue: not every trim level or engine option can offer the full 5,000-lb towing potential. Even if one Highlander trim has a tow package, if it’s a hybrid model, the maximum capacity will be lower than that of a non-hybrid.
Tow Package Availability by Trims
The tow package is not universally available across all Highlander trims, but here’s a breakdown of what to expect by model year:
2020–2025 Toyota Highlander Tow Package Availability
| Trim Level | Gas V6 | Hybrid V6 |
|---|---|---|
| LE | Optional | Not available |
| XLE | Optional | Optional |
| XSE | Optional | Optional |
| Platinum | Standard | Optional |
| Capstone | Standard | Not offered |
While these trims have varying options, many Hybrid models—especially in the Capstone or upper-tier Platinum—did not have the factory tow package available in certain model years. Always double-check based on your specific VIN.
If Your Highlander Does Not Have a Tow Package
If your Highlander doesn’t have a factory-installed tow package, you can still make it functional for towing purposes by retrofitting it with needed components. However, it’s essential to know what you’re adding and the performance consequences.
Can You Add a Tow Package After Purchase?
Yes. A tow package can be installed post-sale—but it requires careful planning and budgeting. While some items like a hitch receiver or wiring harness can be added later, the internal cooling system and software calibrations are best included at the factory.
What You’ll Need to Add (If No Factory Tow Package Exists):
| Items | Recommended or Required for Towing |
|---|---|
| Trailer Hitch | Required |
| Trailer Wiring Harness | Required |
| Transmission Cooler | Recommended |
| Brake Controller | Recommended for trailers over 3,000 lbs |
Keep in mind, aftermarket additions will not increase the base towing capacity of your Highlander, but they will help ensure safe operation if you do choose to approach the maximum limits.
Cost to Add a Tow Package
Fitting your vehicle with a tow-ready package can cost between $200–$1,600 depending on components installed. Dealerships typically offer complete installation for $700–$1,400. This usually includes labor and factory-approved parts necessary for warranty-friendly retrofits.
Towing Safety and Best Practices with the Highlander
Regardless of how you get your Highlander tow-ready, there are safety considerations to make. Towing can place significant strain on your vehicle, so it’s important to follow best practices to maintain the life of your car and protect highway safety.
Understand Your Gross Combined Vehicle Weight Rating (GCVWR)
This is the total allowable weight of your Highlander and trailer combined. Even if your vehicle has a 5,000-lb towing capacity, the total GCVWR must not be exceeded. Toyota’s Highlander maximums vary slightly by year, with most falling near 11,000 lbs.
Use Proper Trailer Brakes and a Brake Controller
Trailers over 3,000 lbs should use electric or surge hydraulic brakes. If your Highlander does not have a brake controller factory-installed, consider adding an aftermarket unit beneath the dashboard.
Know the Local Laws
Towing laws differ by state. Some require specific license plates or lighting requirements for trailers, while others mandate brake controllers for heavier loads. Familiarize yourself with trailer weight limits, registration needs, and highway laws in your local area.
Maintain Regular Oil and Transmission Checks
Towing raises engine and transmission wear, so regular oil changes every 3,000–5,000 miles—and especially before long trips—is necessary. Consider upgrading to full-synthetic oil for improved heat resistance.
Final Thoughts: Is Your Highlander Towing-Ready?
In summary, understanding whether your Toyota Highlander has a tow package ensures safe and efficient towing. Through the owner’s manual, physical inspection, build codes, and your VIN number, you can quickly confirm if your vehicle’s configuration supports up to 5,000 lbs of towing capability.
If you’re considering purchasing a new or used Highlander, knowing the model year and trim details will help you select the most towing-capable variant. If you didn’t receive your Highlander with a predefined tow package, it’s still possible to retrofit it with essential components while keeping in mind that additional weight affects your engine’s performance and long-term durability.
Whether you’re planning weekend travels with a small trailer or regular towing duties with added equipment, ensuring your Highlander can handle the burden is critical. Equip smarter, drive safer, and take full advantage of your Highlander’s potential on the road.
What is a tow package, and why is it important for my Highlander?
A tow package is a set of components specifically designed and installed in a vehicle to enhance its towing capabilities. These components typically include a hitch receiver, wiring harness for trailer lights, upgraded radiator or transmission cooler, and sometimes a heavier-duty suspension system. In Toyota Highlanders, having a tow package allows the vehicle to safely and efficiently handle the extra weight of a trailer, camper, or boat.
Without a proper tow package, attempting to tow heavy loads can result in engine overheating, premature wear on key components, and safety hazards. The package ensures that the vehicle is more than just capable—it’s equipped to perform under pressure. If you’re planning to tow trailers, bikes, or anything with your Highlander, confirming the presence of a tow package is essential for both performance and safety.
Where can I find the tow package information in my Highlander?
One of the easiest ways to check if your Toyota Highlander is equipped with a tow package is by inspecting the vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and using Toyota’s official online resources or contacting your local dealership. Additionally, owners can look under the hood for a towing-specific radiator or transmission cooler, which are indicators that the package is installed. The VIN code and service records are reliable sources of this information, especially if you’re unsure based on physical examination alone.
Inside the vehicle, you can also check the glove compartment for a label indicating the presence of a tow package. This sticker usually lists various features and equipment installed at the factory or by the dealership. If you’re still uncertain, undercarriage inspection for the presence of a hitch receiver and wiring harness at the rear bumper can confirm if the vehicle is prepared for towing. Consulting the owner’s manual is another useful method, as it often specifies trim levels and packages that include towing equipment.
Do all Highlander trims come with a tow package?
No, not all Toyota Highlander trim levels come standard with a tow package. While higher trims such as the Limited, Platinum, and Hybrid models are more likely to include the package, especially if purchased with towing upgrades, others like the LE, XLE, or special editions usually do not include it from the factory. Prospective buyers or current owners should verify whether the vehicle was ordered or equipped with the tow package as an optional feature or add-on.
Furthermore, trim levels from different model years may vary in offerings. While newer Highlanders have more trim-based packages, older models may have offered the tow package primarily through dealership installation. It’s also possible that a previous owner had a hitch or wiring installed independently. Therefore, depending only on the trim isn’t enough—examining the vehicle directly, using the VIN lookup, and consulting a Toyota technician may be necessary to confirm.
What are the visual signs that a Highlander has a tow package?
If your Highlander has a factory-installed tow package, several visible clues can help you identify it. The most obvious sign is the presence of a hitch receiver mounted at the rear of the vehicle, which is usually hidden beneath a plastic cover. Another visual indicator is the trailer wiring harness at the back—this typically appears as a 4-pin or 7-pin connector located behind the rear bumper or within a tailgate compartment. These components are essential to powering trailer lights and brakes when towing.
You can also check under the hood for an additional transmission cooler, which looks like a second radiator adjacent to the standard one. Some models with a tow package will have a reinforced suspension or a label under the hood that states “Incl. Towing Prep Package.” Other telltale signs include weight-distribution markings near the driver’s side door jamb or in the glove compartment, and sometimes extra bumper reinforcements that can only be seen during a detailed undercarriage inspection.
Can I install a tow package on my Highlander if it doesn’t already have one?
Yes, it’s possible to add a tow package to your Highlander even if it didn’t come with one from the factory. Toyota offers genuine tow package kits that include all the necessary components—such as a hitch receiver, wiring harness, and transmission cooler—and are tested to meet the vehicle’s towing specifications. These kits can be installed at a Toyota dealership or qualified mechanic, ensuring your Highlander is safely equipped for towing.
However, it’s important to note that retrofitting the package may cost several hundred to over a thousand dollars, depending on your vehicle’s model year and optional features. Additionally, installing a kit after purchase does not automatically ensure the vehicle can handle heavy payloads or frequent towing without strain. It’s best to assess your usage needs prior to installation and consult with a Toyota-certified specialist to determine the best installation method and vehicle suitability for regular towing.
How much can my Highlander tow if it has a tow package?
If equipped with the proper tow package, Toyota Highlanders have a maximum towing capacity that typically ranges from 3,500 to 5,000 pounds, depending on the engine type, drivetrain, and model year. For example, models with the V6 engine and all-wheel drive generally can tow more than Hybrid versions, which have a slightly reduced capacity due to differences in powertrain design. It’s essential to verify the specific limits for your model using the owner’s manual or by contacting Toyota directly.
Exceeding the manufacturer’s recommended towing capacity can lead to mechanical stress, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential damage to your suspension and brakes. Always factor in the weight of the trailer and its contents, and be aware of the vehicle’s Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). If you’re regularly towing heavier loads, it’s also advisable to ensure regular maintenance of the transmission, cooling system, and suspension components to maintain the longevity and performance of your Highlander.
Is a tow package the same as a trailer hitch?
No, a trailer hitch is just one component of a complete tow package. While a trailer hitch is necessary for connecting a trailer to the vehicle, a full factory tow package includes several enhancements that allow for safe and efficient towing. These can include wiring harnesses for trailer brake and lighting systems, transmission coolers, suspension enhancements, and reinforced mounting brackets. Simply adding a hitch to your Highlander doesn’t necessarily mean it’s fully equipped for towing.
Factory tow packages are designed to work with your Highlander’s existing systems, allowing for better integration and performance. This contrasts with aftermarket installations, where parts may not be harmonized with your vehicle’s design and could lead to compatibility, durability, or even safety issues. Always confirm that all necessary components are in place before regularly towing, and keep in mind that a trailer hitch is only the first of several key elements for a truly capable and safe tow package.