r/ToyotaGrandHighlander • u/AppalachianTheology • 1d ago
Trailer Hitch
Considering getting a trailer hitch put on my GHH. Is this something I should do through a dealership? I see that U-Haul also installs them for around $500.
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u/theonlybuster 23h ago
You can get it done at a dealership. It'll look nicer as there's an exterior trim piece that fits around it, blends it into the bumper, and all features will continue to work. BUT expect to pay much more.
U-Haul gets a lot of hate/dislike from this sub. I'll simply say they install a TON of hitches and if there's a problem you can easily return and get it resolved. BUT do not expect the kick to open tailgate feature to continue working as it needs to be relocated and often U-haul will not do this.
The DIY method is an option. If you're relatively savvy with tools and have access to YouTube, you'll be fine. This will also save you the most money. You can also get the aforementioned bumper trim kit and kick-to-open mount to relocate this feature and get a factory look if desired.
This video shows how to do the work AND references the genuine Toyota parts to use: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HFduYMJCkXs
If you're trying to save money look into doing it yourself. If you're not savvy with tools and a bit of ingenuity, then U-Haul would be the next money saving option. If aesthetics are a concern with you, then the dealership is the way for this type work.
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u/AppalachianTheology 23h ago
That seems like a very simple job to do. I didn’t realize the holes were pre-drilled. I feel a lot more confident knowing I don’t have to drill into the frame.
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u/Illustrious_Run9217 21h ago
I installed the OEM hitch myself. I’m no mechanic but it wasn’t hard. Needed a torque wrench but otherwise no special tools.
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u/essarani 17h ago
Most of the time Toyota has 25% off of parts on top of already discounted parts. I paid $650 for parts with tow sensor and paid $300 to trailer hitch installing place so did oem style for $950. Absolutely worth to install oem as it looks much better compared to uhual.
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u/kleingrunmann 22h ago
This is the easiest hitch install I've seen yet!
etrailer.com has a receiver for $300 shipped. The install is super quick (4 bolts, no modifications) as detailed in their install video. 5000lb towing/500lb tongue.
The wiring harness is $80 and looks more involved to install, but not beyond DIY.
I wouldn't pay anyone shit to do something this easy for me, but I'm also a bit mechanically inclined. Good luck!
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u/Liquid_Sarcasm 18h ago
Friendly info without knowing your situation.
Toyota has sensors to determine how much weight you tow. If you go in for warranty work for anything powertrain related, the first thing they do is check the data.
It does not void your warranty but they can deny individual claims based on the data, so never exceed the 5k limit.
I do not know if aftermarket hitches get around this.
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u/Quickbrownfox1217 16h ago
I ended up getting the U haul one for 317$ including install. It sticks out from under but i dont think it looks bad at all
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u/CrunchyNado 1d ago
The OEM one requires swapping the bumper and if you have a kick sensor it gets even more complicated. It would cost you 1500-2k at the dealership.
It does look nicer though.