Hitch for 2019 Toyota Highlander That Doesn't Extend Rearward From Bumper

Question:

Im looking for a hitch for a 2019 Toyota Highlander V6 AWD. Does the Drawtight DT84MR stick out past the bumper? There are few pictures so I cant tell. Im attracted to the Drawtight models largely because of the plug mounting tab that the other hitches seem to lack. However, the Drawtight models seem to stick out past the bumper creating a shinbuster.

asked by: Charles

Expert Reply:

We haven't yet had the opportunity to install the Draw-Tite # DT84MR, so I can't provide a measurement for how far the hitch receiver sticks out from the bumper. From the photos, it appears that the face of the receiver sticks out by about two inches, but that's just an educated guess on my part.

If you're looking for something that has the receiver sitting a little closer to the bumper, I'd recommend the etrailer brand # e98844. When we installed this hitch, we found the face of the receiver on this hitch sits perfectly even with the furthest rearward edge of the bumper, as shown in the provided photo.

For a trailer wiring harness, I'd recommend the Tekonsha # 118449. The trailer connector is actually intended to be stored in the cargo area until its needed, which is actually a good thing as it protects the connector from the elements and from being damaged so not having the mounting tab for the trailer connector wouldn't be a problem. The gasket/weatherstrip on the rear hatch is pliable enough that it won't damage the wires of the harness as long as you keep the wires away from the latch. I used a trailer connector exactly the same way for years with my PWC trailer and never had a problem.

For a ball mount, I'd recommend # 2923 and for a trailer ball, part # 19261 for a 1-7/8 inch or # 63845 for a 2 inch. I'll link to install videos for the hitch and wiring harness I recommended.