This is one of the best instructional videos I have ever seen. Clear, concise, good camera angles. Good job :) We are contemplating a 2016 Highlander (V6 AWD) and needed to see how easy this install would be before paying the dealer. Looks like we will do it ourselves. Thanks!
I finally did it! So glad I didn’t pay Toyota to do this. Cost me $6 in labor for Panera coffee and muffin to my dad. We used a Coleman cooler and a few piece of that purple insulation stuff they put on the side of houses. Super easy. Couldn’t fins a vicegrips that fit. Anyway, this video is spot on and saved me a ton! Thanks again!!
This video was FAAAAAANTASTIC. Was a breeze. The only thing I didn’t do was the harness as I will not tow a trailer but use it to haul a utility box and bikes. I also didn’t add the plastic box that you cut up back as well.
I installed the hitch after watching the video and downloading instructions on our new 2018 Highlander. Just so anyone who cares knows, you don't have to do any trimming on the right hand side under cover. Goes right back on with no modification. Thanks again for the video.
@@mphorton40 The part whose number ends in 140 (the one in this video) protrudes from the bumper somewhat. The one that ends in 172 is more flush with the bumper (and for some reason is now discontinued but can still be purchased).
I'm glad that my buddy and I installed mine at his body shop. Also, I got my lower cover painted to match the Highlander's OEM body color. I keep getting compliments from other Highlander owners.
no instructions provided...would have been lost without this video...THANK YOU! pro tip: take pics of the pushpins and screws for the covers before you take them off so you can remember where each one goes when you put the covers back on.
Thanks for this video the dealer wanted $1300 to do this. I paid $365 for the hitch follow your instructions and installed it myself. It took me about two hours to install.
Thank you for the great video. I couldn’t have done it or at least as easily without you. Gave me the confidence to do it myself and it was a great time spent with my 12 yr old daughter who helped me and she learned a lot in the process. Thank You!
Great video, thank you for posting this. I just finished installing the factory setup on my wife's 2015 about an hour ago. Mine did NOT come with directions. Thank you again for the great instructions.
Thanks for this video! My hitch came with no instructions!! I found this job easy to do, anyone can do it but it took most of a Saturday. Some PRO TIPS that I discovered during install: (1) Remove the spare tire. Makes life a lot easier under there. (2) You don't need to completely remove the back tray where the tire tools etc live. Remove the 10 mm bolt upper left side then pry from the left gently until you get 1/2 or more of it unlocked across the back. That's enough to run the cable back there. (3) The far outer pins on the two new bumper facias are almost impossible to install. I could not get my big hands up in there. Use a plastic wire-tie instead. Easy to put in, much tighter and because its tighter looks better on the outside. Leaves things nice and flush. (4) If you didn't get instructions like me, if you need them, your Toyota dealer can email a copy to you.
I installed this today on a 2017 Highlander XLE. Everything was spot on here! My only add here would be for the 2017 XLE model, you only need to modify the driver side underbody plastic mold (take a small Dremel and cut off the needed section). For the passenger side, it will install same way from factory.
same here for the limited. i assume you would want to cut the passenger side for easier access to the bolts to periodically tighten them...? otherwise, yes, no need to cut.
Thank you! Thank you!! Thank you!!! Your idea to use vice-grips to hold the hitch onto a floor jack was brilliant. Never could have done the job alone without your video. Appreciate the video so much.
Great Video! Saved me tons of time. I found the same on a 2018. No need to trim the right side. Also, I used jack stands to hold the hitch in place to attach the bolts. One person. I didn't have the giant vice grips.
I would use the factory hitch too. It serves as a nice albeit small step for washing the roof or reaching things. Otherwise there is nowhere to step. Like you say its also hidden and looks a lot better than an under-slung aftermarket hunk of hitch.
Great Video, Can you list the Bumper Hitch you used and the part number for the upgraded bumper cover. You sure did a great job. Im just hard of hearing comments Thank you
Thank you very much for the great instructional video. I too, used your vice grip jack hoist tip for a 1 person install. Saved plenty for the clean OEM hitch install. 2019 XLE Hybrid. Thank you!
Thank you. Followed this for 2018 hybrid Ltd. This video was extremely helpful. I had to use side braces to “stretch hitch before installing left side screws to frame on bottom. Also didn’t need to cut right underside plastic for the hybrid, just the left piece.
I turn Wrenches for a living (35+ years). With all the certifications that come with my field of work. I must say this is a VERY good "how to " video. We recently purchased a Highlander and I will be installing a factory hitch. From all the years of experience I carry, I know you cannot find an aftermarket hitch system the compares to Factory. The wiring system alone is perfect. Absolutely no splicing from what I see in your video. Thanks for the video and advice! I too find myself doing installs by myself. I really liked your idea with the vice grip/floor jack combination.
Thanks Thomas, I spent a few years turning wrenches myself :) I appreciate the compliment on the install and video. The only real gripe i have with whole kit is the wire harness... they didn't make it puppy proof. The new mutt in the yard thought the connector would be a good thing to chew on.
I watched this video several times before my hitch and wiring came today. I was a pro by the time the box arrive. The vice grips and the jack was brilliant although it works much better to put the car back down so that jack can place the hitch perfectly near the mounting points. For the two 12MM nuts on the driver side shroud, it’s important to pull the shroud down hard while removing the two plastic nuts. They’ll just spin in place if you don’t.
Can you let us in on what you paid for the original parts? I want to compare the cost vs the aftermarket stuff. I agree with everyone that this is a really good video. Nicely done!
@@williamkessler3847 Its been a while, but I think it was around $500 to $600 for the hitch and wire kit. It is a bit more than aftermarket, but it has a much better fit and finish IMO :)
Thank you. The vice grip jack trick worked for me on a one person install. Seeing it all before doing it all was a great help. I don’t know why Toyota doesn’t provide cut out templates (as they do for running boards) for the undercovers, but it’s not rocket science. I used large tin snips to cut the plastic - not that hard. Installed on 2019 hybrid limited.
Definitely better to get oem parts. Everything is well thought out, and i love how everything just clips together. I just installed one today, and so I understand exactly what you mean.
Thanks for the video. About 5 minutes in you mentioned the instructions say it's a 2 man job. I'm wondering because I didn't get any paper work with mine at all, not even a parts list. I called the place I got it from and was told they come that way. It looks like yours came with some info. I think my 2019 looks enough like yours that I will be able OK so I am really glad you put this up.
If it makes you feel any better, my kit didn't come with instructions either. I asked the parts rep where I purchased the hardware for the installation instructions. They were nice enough to print me what Toyota makes available to their technicians. So what i went by is not necessarily meant for the general public. I hope the information in the video helps out :)
Thank you yellow dog!! Great video and instructions. I was little puzzled without instructions but you and your video came up strong when needed. I was a one man show without a floor jack and jack stands. A few tiles boxes and 2x4 got the job done without lifting the car.
I appreciate the video. My install wasn't too bad, 2019 XLE model. Had trouble with a couple bolts not wanting to go in. I've got a M12 1.25 tap ordered to chase the threads. Thanks for the help.
I would spray that tow hitch and the parts where it will be attached to with line-x or raptor bedliner to prevent it from rusting. Thanks for sharing your installation process.
Thanks for this video! I don't know if I could have done it without it (my kit didn't come with instructions for some reason). Seeing where to cut in particular helped me out. One thing I struggled with (for future DIYers) was removing the shelf inside the trunk to run the cables. There's a nut on the left side, and a bunch of clips with the carpet. Thanks again!
Awesome video. I would add that it doesn't appear you replace the tow hooks since the hitch has tow points on it. I left mine off. Also, the last piece you cut out of the plastic trim isn't necessary on my 2016. I left it and dry fit the piece, and it fits perfectly. Tin snips were much faster than the dremel. Finally, some of the bolts really want to cross-thread. It was the biggest pain having two that didn't want to go in completely straight. Finger tighten them all for several threads, then use a tool (I used my cordless ratchet), then torque wrench.
Awesome video! I am lin the process of buying a 2018 HIghlander and needed to see this so I can understand how this thing is SUPPOSED to be installed by the dealership.
Thanks for the video! I completed the install in under a couple hours yesterday on our 2017 Highlander SE. I did find that the RH cover didn't need to be cut on our model. Thanks again.
Thanks for the video. Just did mine 2016. It was a little difficult taking the insert out in the truck. I also cut way less off the left side and nothing on the right. Fit great!!
Your welcome, i'm glad the video helped. Funny thing with trunk, through the power of editing i made it look easy.. but truth be told.... well ill never say :)
@@Yellowdogsworld would you be able to give a little more details on how that insert was removed or PM with that please, I know this was a couple years ago for you but I am getting ready to install one on my 2016. Appreciate it.
I wish my memory served me better, however i don't remember the exact details on getting the trunk insert out. Best I can remember its not that difficult, of the items i covered in my video I think using a strap to hold it up out the way was the best tip I could offer.
Since I don't have any of those tools, I'll have to pay to get that done. My 2106 Highlander is now 6 years old and my wife's new Lexus GX460 did not come with the tow package, so I will need to get this done.
Did you have to relocate the Kick Sensor for the back door? I understand that the sensor gets moved from the center (where the hitch goes) to the left side.
thanks for the guide...very helpful. also, im curious about your jack stands...when you placed it under the pinch welds, doesnt it bend it? or yours has a groove that enables the welds to go between it?
the stands do have a groove, but also there is a area that has a little more reinforcement on the seam, this where I put the stands. It holds up fine for supporting the car in applications like this one.
I am excited to try installing this hitch thanks to this video!! What kind of blade did you use in your Dremel? I do not own one but am thinking about purchasing one or renting one for this project. Thanks again!
Just purchased a 2015 XLE I’m considering doing this exact same thing to. If you don’t mind me asking, what did a kit like this set you back? Thank you for your time!
On my 16 model it wasn't hard to do. Getting a couple of the trim panels out the inside was a little tricky but for the most part this is not a difficult install IMO. It took me more time to film and edit than doing the work if that tells you anything.
I honestly don't remember, but I think it was around 500 for everything,,, but its been a while, so the price may be more or less depending on how much your dealership thinks of their parts.
Awesome video. Could you please tell me where you printed the instructions? I'm going to be doing the install on our 2019 Highlander in the near future.
Great instructional. Wouldn't be able to install the wiring harness like you did as rats would be able to nest in that size of an opening. Was wondering if anyone has any tips on how to enable the rear view monitor to be viewable while towing. Also, anyone have any luck finding 7 pin options? hard to believe they don't have this for a vehicle with 5k towing capacity...
Hey Yellowdog, I just picked up my factory hitch and harness from local dealer and your video will surely make this a lot easier for me so thanks! Just a question - about what was the total time, from jacking up to jacking back down? Thanks again
Looks simple enough. Thanks for doing this video for all of us. About how much was that hitch package from the dealer? Also, is this an AWD or would that make any difference??
Yeah, I have the awd hybrid 2019 and T quoted me 600 parts. About 1k total with labor. After watching this I think I’ll just do it myself. If I can do the dang timing belts on my Hondas, I can do this
Excellent video, appreciate you taking the time to show us. Does your Highlander have the tow package? (150 amp alternator, engine and transmission oil cooler) Would you mind making a video on how to identify these?
I know our highlander has a towing capacity rating of 5000 pounds. It has the 3.5 liter V6, however i doubt it came with any additional add on's since it is a base model. I will have to look into the oil cooler's, and alternator. Since it is rated at 5000 Lbs it may come standard with the 3.5 V/6's.
Yellowdog02 appreciate the reply. I read that all v6 models (2016 and after) will come with the tow package, however I couldn't find anything about it.
iDude that is correct all 2016+ V6 have the engine oil & trans oil coolers for 5,000 tow rating. Just need to add the hitch. Prior to that LE were 2,000 lb and XLE and above were 5,000 lb. You can confirm tow rating and factory configuration for any specific vehicle by looking up the VIN here: www.toyota.com/owners/vehicle-specification Marketing comparison of '16 and '15: www.continentaltoyota.com/2016-toyota-highlander-vs-2015-highlander-model-comparison-serving-chicago-il.html
This is one of the best instructional videos I have ever seen. Clear, concise, good camera angles. Good job :) We are contemplating a 2016 Highlander (V6 AWD) and needed to see how easy this install would be before paying the dealer. Looks like we will do it ourselves. Thanks!
I finally did it! So glad I didn’t pay Toyota to do this. Cost me $6 in labor for Panera coffee and muffin to my dad. We used a Coleman cooler and a few piece of that purple insulation stuff they put on the side of houses. Super easy. Couldn’t fins a vicegrips that fit. Anyway, this video is spot on and saved me a ton! Thanks again!!
That is awesome! And a bonus was you got to spend time dad :)
For a three man Job, camera man holding the bumper and tighting the bolts. You did a great job, in one person! 👍great quality content
This video was FAAAAAANTASTIC. Was a breeze. The only thing I didn’t do was the harness as I will not tow a trailer but use it to haul a utility box and bikes. I also didn’t add the plastic box that you cut up back as well.
thanks, happy to help 👍
I installed the hitch after watching the video and downloading instructions on our new 2018 Highlander. Just so anyone who cares knows, you don't have to do any trimming on the right hand side under cover. Goes right back on with no modification. Thanks again for the video.
Cool, that's one less thing you have to modify.
I appreciate the information, and i'm glad you found the video useful :)
Do you know the part number of the hitch you bought for your 2018 Highlander? Online I see one that is PT228-48170 and another that is PT228-48172.
@@mphorton40 The part whose number ends in 140 (the one in this video) protrudes from the bumper somewhat. The one that ends in 172 is more flush with the bumper (and for some reason is now discontinued but can still be purchased).
I'm glad that my buddy and I installed mine at his body shop. Also, I got my lower cover painted to match the Highlander's OEM body color. I keep getting compliments from other Highlander owners.
I bet that does look good 😁
no instructions provided...would have been lost without this video...THANK YOU!
pro tip: take pics of the pushpins and screws for the covers before you take them off so you can remember where each one goes when you put the covers back on.
Thanks for the tip :)
Thanks for this video the dealer wanted $1300 to do this. I paid $365 for the hitch follow your instructions and installed it myself. It took me about two hours to install.
Glad I could help :)
@@Yellowdogsworld hi. I khabe a question.. name of the product and w did u buy please
I ordered a oem hitch that came with no instructions. This video really saved my ass,thanks!
Your welcome 🙏 😊
Thank you for the great video. I couldn’t have done it or at least as easily without you. Gave me the confidence to do it myself and it was a great time spent with my 12 yr old daughter who helped me and she learned a lot in the process.
Thank You!
Glad I could help!
Thank you for this. Bought mine directly from the dealership and it didn't come with instructions. Big thumbs up for the torque specs!
You're welcome, and I'm glad to hear there's someone else in the world that values torque specs :)
Great video, thank you for posting this. I just finished installing the factory setup on my wife's 2015 about an hour ago. Mine did NOT come with directions. Thank you again for the great instructions.
Thanks for this video! My hitch came with no instructions!! I found this job easy to do, anyone can do it but it took most of a Saturday. Some PRO TIPS that I discovered during install:
(1) Remove the spare tire. Makes life a lot easier under there.
(2) You don't need to completely remove the back tray where the tire tools etc live. Remove the 10 mm bolt upper left side then pry from the left gently until you get 1/2 or more of it unlocked across the back. That's enough to run the cable back there.
(3) The far outer pins on the two new bumper facias are almost impossible to install. I could not get my big hands up in there. Use a plastic wire-tie instead. Easy to put in, much tighter and because its tighter looks better on the outside. Leaves things nice and flush.
(4) If you didn't get instructions like me, if you need them, your Toyota dealer can email a copy to you.
Glad it helped!
I installed this today on a 2017 Highlander XLE. Everything was spot on here! My only add here would be for the 2017 XLE model, you only need to modify the driver side underbody plastic mold (take a small Dremel and cut off the needed section). For the passenger side, it will install same way from factory.
same here for the limited. i assume you would want to cut the passenger side for easier access to the bolts to periodically tighten them...? otherwise, yes, no need to cut.
Wonderful to see a torque wrench being used for a change in a DIY video. Thanks.
Thanks, I figured if i'm gonna go through the installation... I gotta do the right way :)
No one else knows what a torque wrench is.
Can confirm this is the same process for the 2017 to 2019 as well. Thanks for this 👍🏼.
Thank you! Thank you!! Thank you!!! Your idea to use vice-grips to hold the hitch onto a floor jack was brilliant. Never could have done the job alone without your video. Appreciate the video so much.
I'm glad I could help :)
Great Video! Saved me tons of time. I found the same on a 2018. No need to trim the right side. Also, I used jack stands to hold the hitch in place to attach the bolts. One person. I didn't have the giant vice grips.
Happy the video helped out,
Jack stands will work too, got to make do with what you have :)
great to see these videos, would this kit work for a 2017 hybrid highlander?
I would use the factory hitch too. It serves as a nice albeit small step for washing the roof or reaching things. Otherwise there is nowhere to step. Like you say its also hidden and looks a lot better than an under-slung aftermarket hunk of hitch.
Great Video, Can you list the Bumper Hitch you used and the part number for the upgraded bumper cover. You sure did a great job. Im just hard of hearing comments Thank you
Thank you very much for the great instructional video. I too, used your vice grip jack hoist tip for a 1 person install. Saved plenty for the clean OEM hitch install. 2019 XLE Hybrid. Thank you!
Your welcome 😊
Great work, close-up shots and details - everything is spot on.
Thank you. Followed this for 2018 hybrid Ltd. This video was extremely helpful. I had to use side braces to “stretch hitch before installing left side screws to frame on bottom. Also didn’t need to cut right underside plastic for the hybrid, just the left piece.
Happy to help, good to hear it worked out for you :)
I turn Wrenches for a living (35+ years). With all the certifications that come with my field of work. I must say this is a VERY good "how to " video. We recently purchased a Highlander and I will be installing a factory hitch. From all the years of experience I carry, I know you cannot find an aftermarket hitch system the compares to Factory. The wiring system alone is perfect. Absolutely no splicing from what I see in your video. Thanks for the video and advice! I too find myself doing installs by myself. I really liked your idea with the vice grip/floor jack combination.
Thanks Thomas,
I spent a few years turning wrenches myself :) I appreciate the compliment on the install and video. The only real gripe i have with whole kit is the wire harness... they didn't make it puppy proof. The new mutt in the yard thought the connector would be a good thing to chew on.
That looks so clean and tidy .. I cannot DIY this stuff and not many people in H Town do it this way..
Great video, gotta say I was most impressed with how clean your highlander is underneath.
Thanks 👍, Its a southern car that's been spared harsh winters and bad roads. 😁
I watched this video several times before my hitch and wiring came today. I was a pro by the time the box arrive. The vice grips and the jack was brilliant although it works much better to put the car back down so that jack can place the hitch perfectly near the mounting points. For the two 12MM nuts on the driver side shroud, it’s important to pull the shroud down hard while removing the two plastic nuts. They’ll just spin in place if you don’t.
Can you let us in on what you paid for the original parts? I want to compare the cost vs the aftermarket stuff.
I agree with everyone that this is a really good video. Nicely done!
@@williamkessler3847
Its been a while, but I think it was around $500 to $600 for the hitch and wire kit. It is a bit more than aftermarket, but it has a much better fit and finish IMO :)
Installed mine last night. Thanks for such a great guide. 🙏🙏🙏
Awesome, it’s nice to hear when folks find the info helpful😊
Any chance you have a video showing how to install a break controller?
Thank you. The vice grip jack trick worked for me on a one person install. Seeing it all before doing it all was a great help. I don’t know why Toyota doesn’t provide cut out templates (as they do for running boards) for the undercovers, but it’s not rocket science. I used large tin snips to cut the plastic - not that hard. Installed on 2019 hybrid limited.
Awesome, glad the video and vice grips help out 😊
Installing that for your wife must have been good for 3-4 kitchen passes! Great job
Well, one would think,
However as any married man knows... Your work is never done, and list never gets any shorter :)
Definitely better to get oem parts. Everything is well thought out, and i love how everything just clips together. I just installed one today, and so I understand exactly what you mean.
Thanks for the video. About 5 minutes in you mentioned the instructions say it's a 2 man job. I'm wondering because I didn't get any paper work with mine at all, not even a parts list. I called the place I got it from and was told they come that way. It looks like yours came with some info. I think my 2019 looks enough like yours that I will be able OK so I am really glad you put this up.
If it makes you feel any better, my kit didn't come with instructions either. I asked the parts rep where I purchased the hardware for the installation instructions. They were nice enough to print me what Toyota makes available to their technicians. So what i went by is not necessarily meant for the general public. I hope the information in the video helps out :)
Ah ha!
Thank you yellow dog!! Great video and instructions. I was little puzzled without instructions but you and your video came up strong when needed.
I was a one man show without a floor jack and jack stands. A few tiles boxes and 2x4 got the job done without lifting the car.
Thanks Jonathan,
I'm glad I could help :)
Thank you for this! Like someone else who commented mine didn't come with any instructions so this video was a lifesaver.
Your Welcome :)
So glad I saw this video. Looking to buy a Highlander and we were only looking at the ones with the hitch already on. Not necessary. Thanks
I appreciate the video. My install wasn't too bad, 2019 XLE model. Had trouble with a couple bolts not wanting to go in. I've got a M12 1.25 tap ordered to chase the threads. Thanks for the help.
Happy to hear the video helped 😊
I would spray that tow hitch and the parts where it will be attached to with line-x or raptor bedliner to prevent it from rusting. Thanks for sharing your installation process.
Good idea :) especially in rust belt parts of the US.
The best video on how to install a hitch..
Thanks :)
Lovely video. Just got the 2017, and I believe I would buy the factory toyota hitch, now, over a third party one. Cheers.
My feelings exactly :)
Great video, made installing the OE hitch on my wifes 2018 a breeze, especially since they neglected to put any instructions inside the box
thanks! : )
thanks for showing the skid plate cuts. That was very helpful.
Glad it was helpful!
Really nice video! I work alone most times also - nice way to lift the hitch to the frame. I thought the same in my head prior to watching your video.
Thanks.. great minds think alike.. 😆
Thanks again. I received no instructions with parts so your video really helped! The floor Jack was genius for me as I installed by myself.
Great job on the video. Mine did not come with instructions either. Followed your video and all went together very smoothly. Thanks a bunch.
Cool, glad I could help :)
Thank you for the video. Without your video I wouldn’t be able to install it. God bless
Glad I could help :)
Thanks for this video! I don't know if I could have done it without it (my kit didn't come with instructions for some reason). Seeing where to cut in particular helped me out. One thing I struggled with (for future DIYers) was removing the shelf inside the trunk to run the cables. There's a nut on the left side, and a bunch of clips with the carpet. Thanks again!
Your welcome,
I'm glad the video was helpful. :)
Excellent job making this video. Thanks for taking the time to help others.
Awesome video. I would add that it doesn't appear you replace the tow hooks since the hitch has tow points on it. I left mine off. Also, the last piece you cut out of the plastic trim isn't necessary on my 2016. I left it and dry fit the piece, and it fits perfectly. Tin snips were much faster than the dremel. Finally, some of the bolts really want to cross-thread. It was the biggest pain having two that didn't want to go in completely straight. Finger tighten them all for several threads, then use a tool (I used my cordless ratchet), then torque wrench.
I'm happy the video helped out, and yes the tow hooks are not needed once the hitch is installed, at least that's my opinion :)
I was planning to do this myself. Your video has given me the confidence. Thanks a lot for uploading this great video. 2 Thumbs Up!
Your welcome, happy to help 😀
Awesome video! I am lin the process of buying a 2018 HIghlander and needed to see this so I can understand how this thing is SUPPOSED to be installed by the dealership.
Paula Guild what’s the dealership charging you for the install? What do the parts cost? What is their labor charge?
Thanks for the video! I completed the install in under a couple hours yesterday on our 2017 Highlander SE. I did find that the RH cover didn't need to be cut on our model. Thanks again.
Cool, its an easy install for the most part if ya got the right tools, Glad the video helped :)
Thanks for the video. Just did mine 2016. It was a little difficult taking the insert out in the truck. I also cut way less off the left side and nothing on the right. Fit great!!
Your welcome, i'm glad the video helped.
Funny thing with trunk, through the power of editing i made it look easy.. but truth be told.... well ill never say :)
@@Yellowdogsworld would you be able to give a little more details on how that insert was removed or PM with that please, I know this was a couple years ago for you but I am getting ready to install one on my 2016. Appreciate it.
I wish my memory served me better, however i don't remember the exact details on getting the trunk insert out. Best I can remember its not that difficult, of the items i covered in my video I think using a strap to hold it up out the way was the best tip I could offer.
@@Yellowdogsworld thank you!
Nicely done. I appreciate you sharing the process.
thanks :)
Thanks for posting this. Made the install very easy to do.
You're welcome!
Thanks for the video, just finished installing this on 2019 Highlander, great job! 👍
Glad it helped! ... And my wife thought I was crazy for putting this video out... its helped a lot of people :)
Getting ready to do one Friday, glad I have a Bend Pak 9k two post lift in my garage,, too old to get up and down off creepers...
Just about to tackle this same job. This was a great help. Really great job with the video.
I love this! Thank you! Your video is way better than Etrialer
Thanks, :) and I didn't even have a camera crew
I want to do this on my Mom's 2021 Highlander. Thanks for the video, was helpful 👍🏼
Glad it helped
Have you done it already? Does the same part fit the 2021? I just got the 2021 highlander so the info would be great!
Great video man!
Glad you liked it!
This video was a life saver. Thank you very much.
You're welcome!
man this is the best video ever
Thanks :)
I installed mine on a 2017, and the 4 pin connector doesn't work. Uhg. No lights on the trailer. Checked fuse, and its still good.
Thanks, for doing this video. I will be getting the Toyota hitch. Very nice looking, you did a great job.
Thank's :)
Excelente video. Just installed mine on a 2019 Highlander. Great job and easy explanation. So funny your jack helper hahaha.
Thanks, its amazing the uses you find for good pair of vice grips :)
Great video straight forward and to the point. Whoever gave this video a thumbs down probably couldn't install it lol
Thanks,,, probably the same people who live under bridges and scare little children :)
also helps if you drop the spare tire for more head room and working space
good idea :)
Great job!!! thanks for taking the time to make this video.
Thank you, and your welcome :)
Since I don't have any of those tools, I'll have to pay to get that done. My 2106 Highlander is now 6 years old and my wife's new Lexus GX460 did not come with the tow package, so I will need to get this done.
Lol.. we’ll in a case like that.. I use it as an excuse to buy more tools 😊
Good morning . Can u tell me w did you buy. 🙏 please
Great video in 2021, great idea on the extra helper
Thanks!
Did you have to relocate the Kick Sensor for the back door? I understand that the sensor gets moved from the center (where the hitch goes) to the left side.
This highlander didn't have that option, but it would make sense you would have to in order to install the hitch.
Great video, very, very instructional and very clear. Thank you.
Thanks :)
Thank very much for the video. I’m ready to install my hitch now.
Glad the video helped :)
thanks for the guide...very helpful. also, im curious about your jack stands...when you placed it under the pinch welds, doesnt it bend it? or yours has a groove that enables the welds to go between it?
the stands do have a groove, but also there is a area that has a little more reinforcement on the seam, this where I put the stands. It holds up fine for supporting the car in applications like this one.
I am excited to try installing this hitch thanks to this video!!
What kind of blade did you use in your Dremel? I do not own one but am thinking about purchasing one or renting one for this project. Thanks again!
Hello, I used shears and worked perfectly!
Would like to do the same thing to my 2014, would you have the part number?
Thanks for the video. I was able to do it very quickly.
Excellent!
Great video! made installation a piece of cake. I think I speak for most husband's your wife was right again, no one would find this video useful.
LOL... well, to be honest i wasn't sure people were going to find it useful... I'm glad I was wrong too :)
Just purchased a 2015 XLE I’m considering doing this exact same thing to. If you don’t mind me asking, what did a kit like this set you back? Thank you for your time!
You know it’s been a while, and I’m sure prices have changed a bit, but I think the hitch and harness kit together was maybe 600’ish..
Great Video. I am going to put on my 14 Highlander Hybrid. How easy was it to get out the compartment tray that holds the jack?
On my 16 model it wasn't hard to do. Getting a couple of the trim panels out the inside was a little tricky but for the most part this is not a difficult install IMO. It took me more time to film and edit than doing the work if that tells you anything.
Great vid, how much was the factory hitch and trim pieces roughly?
I honestly don't remember, but I think it was around 500 for everything,,, but its been a while, so the price may be more or less depending on how much your dealership thinks of their parts.
Thanks for the video, I've got a 2016, can you point me to where you would recommend I buy the hitch and wiring harness you showed being installed?
since the hitch was OEM, i think the only place you can get it is through a dealership.. at least that's where I purchased my setup.
Great job awesome video 👍😎
Great video. Does the bumper part come with the hitch or do you have to purchase that separately?
The kit comes with the new bumper panel. The only thing I bought separate was the harness kit.
Подскажите ссылку где можно приобрести такой фаркоп ???
Thanks for the video... Helped me with my install for sure!
Glad it helped
Awesome video. Could you please tell me where you printed the instructions? I'm going to be doing the install on our 2019 Highlander in the near future.
I had a friend at my local dealership print them for me
Great instructional. Wouldn't be able to install the wiring harness like you did as rats would be able to nest in that size of an opening.
Was wondering if anyone has any tips on how to enable the rear view monitor to be viewable while towing. Also, anyone have any luck finding 7 pin options? hard to believe they don't have this for a vehicle with 5k towing capacity...
Excellent video!
thank's
Hey Yellowdog, I just picked up my factory hitch and harness from local dealer and your video will surely make this a lot easier for me so thanks! Just a question - about what was the total time, from jacking up to jacking back down? Thanks again
With out filming maybe a couple of hours or so.
Yeah, Toyota wanted 350 in labor for this job. I think I’ll do this myself and pay myself 50 ;p
Looks simple enough. Thanks for doing this video for all of us. About how much was that hitch package from the dealer? Also, is this an AWD or would that make any difference??
I think the hitch and wiring ran around 600, I don't remember exactly what it ran. I'm not sure about the AWD, but my guess there's no difference.
Yeah, I have the awd hybrid 2019 and T quoted me 600 parts. About 1k total with labor. After watching this I think I’ll just do it myself. If I can do the dang timing belts on my Hondas, I can do this
Excellent video, appreciate you taking the time to show us. Does your Highlander have the tow package? (150 amp alternator, engine and transmission oil cooler) Would you mind making a video on how to identify these?
I know our highlander has a towing capacity rating of 5000 pounds. It has the 3.5 liter V6, however i doubt it came with any additional add on's since it is a base model. I will have to look into the oil cooler's, and alternator. Since it is rated at 5000 Lbs it may come standard with the 3.5 V/6's.
Yellowdog02 appreciate the reply. I read that all v6 models (2016 and after) will come with the tow package, however I couldn't find anything about it.
iDude that is correct all 2016+ V6 have the engine oil & trans oil coolers for 5,000 tow rating. Just need to add the hitch. Prior to that LE were 2,000 lb and XLE and above were 5,000 lb. You can confirm tow rating and factory configuration for any specific vehicle by looking up the VIN here: www.toyota.com/owners/vehicle-specification
Marketing comparison of '16 and '15:
www.continentaltoyota.com/2016-toyota-highlander-vs-2015-highlander-model-comparison-serving-chicago-il.html
PilotOp68 thanks so much for the confirmation. Thought I've looked everywhere but missed those. Really appreciate it!
Great video!
Thanks!
Beautiful
Thank you
Hi Did I see a rear air sack shock in you highlander? For towing?
well, if you did I didn't know it was there? It's a base model, so i doubt it had it from the factory.
Thanks for this detailed video!
Did the bumper trim come with the factory hitch or do you have to get that separately?
I finally read through the comments and see that this question has already been asked and answered.. so never mind, but thanks regardless!
I missed this one, but yes, it does come in the kit :)
Great job. Made my install a lot easier
Glad it helped
Is the brake controller a plug and play item too? What controller did you use?
Yes it is plug and play, no programming needed. This model came directly from my local Toyota parts department listed for my car.
Excellent information.
Glad you think so!
Good job