Tow Vehicle Advice Needed for Novice
Hi, I'm looking at used Highlanders to tow my 17 ft Casita, both gas and a hybrid. But the two I'm looking at do not have a hitch. Is there anything special to know about getting the hitch and plug in...
Forum Discussion
A vehicle without a factory hitch probably doesn't have the factory tow package. I don't know exactly what that would include with this particular vehicle but it can include things like: built in trailer brake control, larger radiator, lower axle gears, bigger mirrors, larger radiator, extra transmission cooler, etc.
So, depending on this particular vehicle tow package you might not want one that didn't come with a hitch.
A hybrid will likely get worse fuel mileage when towing due to all the extra weight it's dragging around. Further, 3,500 pounds is not enough. Keep in mind that on most vehicles the tow rating is figured with a 150 pound driver in an otherwise empty vehicle. Adding passengers, pets, and gear to the vehicle subtracts pound for pound from the tow rating. Check your owners' manual to be sure on this vehicle.
So, depending on this particular vehicle tow package you might not want one that didn't come with a hitch.
A hybrid will likely get worse fuel mileage when towing due to all the extra weight it's dragging around. Further, 3,500 pounds is not enough. Keep in mind that on most vehicles the tow rating is figured with a 150 pound driver in an otherwise empty vehicle. Adding passengers, pets, and gear to the vehicle subtracts pound for pound from the tow rating. Check your owners' manual to be sure on this vehicle.
