Recommended Trailer Hitch with Flush Receiver for 2014 Highlander with Full-Size Spare

Question:

I hope to buy a used 2014 or later 4WD Toyota Highlander and use it to tow trailers weighing up to 5k pounds. Your website has been the best source of information about hitches I have found so far, but it is still confusing. Common sense and the 2016 owners manual online says that a compact spare should not be used while towing so a full-size spare same diameter as the other tires is mandatory but apparently not included in the tow prep package crazy!. I found reference on your website to a hitch that can be used with a full-sized spare if the wheel is not made of aluminum. I dont understand why the type of metal would matter. Could you explain? I also do NOT want to bang my shin on the hitch while loading/unloading cargo so it needs to be recessed from the bumper enough so that will not happen. The hitch also needs to not hang so low that it drags on the pavement when I turn into driveways hard to define, I know. Do you have what I need?

asked by: Robert S

Expert Reply:

There are a few trailer hitches available for the 2014 Toyota Highlander that are compatible with the full-size spare tire. Some of these hitches, like you mentioned, will fit with the full-size spare but only if the rim isn't aluminum. The reason for this is that the aluminum rim tends to be a bit too wide to allow the hitch to bolt up around it under the Highlander.

The only hitch available for the 2014 Highlander featuring a receiver that will be completely flush behind the bumper is the EcoHitch # 306-X7250, however it is NOT compatible with a full-size spare.

If your Highlander comes equipped with the full-size spare (as long as it doesn't have an aluminum rim) your best option is going to be with the Curt Class III # C13200. This hitch features the needed capacity for your trailers (6,000 pound towing and 900 pound tongue) with a receiver that is almost tucked completely behind the bumper (see attached image). The receiver is hidden enough that it shouldn't bother any unsuspecting shins and it will be mounted directly beneath the fascia so ground clearance won't be a concern.

I have attached an installation video that you can also use for reference.

expert reply by: Chris R