Solutions for Transporting Cargo with 2012 Toyota Corolla

Question

Question:

I am moving out of state and I was wondering what option do I have to bring all my stuff in my 2012 Corolla? I read some articles that you guys have on this website about the towing capacity and how to install the hitch btw I love this page, first time here but since on that article says that I need a transmisión cooler in order to tow a trailer, I am no longer interested in that because probably this is going to be the first and last time that I’ll be towing something with my Corolla. So I am looking for any other option that you guys can offer me as good and cheap as possible. Thank you!

asked by: Jean

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

As far as storage space and capacity goes your best option for transporting your cargo to your new home is going to be with a small trailer. A transmission cooler is a good idea to prevent the transmission from overheating and for improving overall performance on any vehicle, but it is rarely ever REQUIRED. Especially since you really only plan on towing a trailer one time, a transmission cooler isn't a necessity for your application. Taking a look at the online version of the owner's manual for your 2012 Toyota Corolla I did find that the vehicle is rated to tow a small trailer (up to 1,500 pounds) and it does not list any kind of requirement with regards to a transmission cooler. I do recommend verifying this information by checking your copy of the manual as well.

If you decide to go this route, you will need a trailer hitch, wiring harness, and a ball mount.

For a trailer hitch I recommend the Draw-Tite Class I Trailer Hitch # 24913. This hitch is confirmed to fit your Corolla and will use existing holes in its frame for a no-drill installation. The hitch features a 2,000 pound towing capacity but you will still need to follow the lower 1,500 pound rating for your vehicle. I have attached an installation video on the 2013 model Corolla that you can use for reference.

For a wiring harness I recommend the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118459. This is a custom harness that will install by simply plugging into factory ports inside the trunk, behind the tail lights on both the driver and passenger side. Once you make these connections you will just run the hot lead up to the vehicle battery. This will provide you with a 4-Way connector that will connect with and power a trailer's basic signal lights. I have again attached an installation video and the written instructions that you can check out.

Then you will just need a ball mount and hitch ball. The Draw-Tite Drawbar # 3593 should work well. You just need to add a hitch ball like the 2 inch # 19258 or the 1-7/8 inch # 19256 depending on what your trailer will work with.

I have attached a couple articles on trailer towing that you might also find helpful.

Depending on how much cargo you need to load up, you can use a Class I rated hitch-mounted carrier like the Curt # C18145 instead of using the hitch to pull a trailer. You can pair the carrier with a cargo bag like the Rightline # RL100J87-B to protect your cargo during transport.

Finally, another option is to secure cargo to the roof of your Corolla with a combination of a roof rack and cargo box. For an economical roof rack that is confirmed to fit your vehicle you can use the Rola Sport Series # 59734. With the rack installed you can mount a cargo box like the Trunx # TRX44FR.