1. Confirm Compatibility:
- Ensure that your towing vehicle is capable of towing the weight of your Highlander. Refer to the towing capacities listed in your towing vehicle's owner's manual.
- Check the Toyota Highlander owner's manual for towing recommendations and capacity limitations.
2. Select Appropriate Towing Equipment:
- Choose the right tow hitch or towing system for your vehicle.
- Opt for a trailer hitch receiver and ball mount that can handle the weight and tongue weight of the Highlander.
- Use safety chains to connect the towing vehicle to the Highlander.
- Secure the safety chains crosswise under the towed vehicle, not to the tow bar or hitch receiver.
3. Prepare the Highlander for Towing:
- Put the Highlander's transmission into "Neutral."
- Release the parking brake to allow the vehicle's wheels to roll freely.
- Turn on the hazard lights and running lights of the Highlander to enhance visibility.
- Deactivate any automatic features like lane departure warning or stability control, as they may interfere with towing.
4. Attach the Tow Bar or Tow Dolly:
- Use a tow bar or tow dolly appropriate for your vehicle.
- For tow bars, align the ball with the receiver hitch and secure the locking pin or mechanism.
- For tow dollies, properly position and load the Highlander onto the dolly according to the manufacturer's instructions.
5. Connect the Electrical Wiring:
- Attach the electrical wiring from your towing vehicle to the Highlander.
- Ensure that the wiring connects properly to enable taillights, brake lights, and turn signals on the Highlander.
- Test the lights to ensure proper functioning.
6. Conduct a Pre-Tow Check:
- Double-check all connections and ensure that everything is secure.
- Inspect the tires, tire pressure, and tire condition on the Highlander.
- Test the brakes of the towing vehicle and the Highlander to ensure proper functionality.
- Ensure that all mirrors and windows on both vehicles provide a clear field of vision.
7. Towing and Maneuvering:
- Start driving slowly and gradually increase speed.
- Accelerate and decelerate smoothly to avoid jerking or swaying.
- Avoid sudden turns and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
- Be mindful of the increased stopping distance and allow more time for braking.
- Communicate and coordinate with passengers or drivers of the towed vehicle if needed.
8. Legal Requirements and Safety Precautions:
- Familiarize yourself with any legal requirements and regulations for towing in your region.
- Stay within the legal speed limits, and don't exceed the towing capacity of your vehicles.
- Adhere to traffic rules and pay extra attention to road conditions, curves, and hills.
9. Arrival at Destination:
- Once you reach your destination, carefully unhook and detach the Highlander from the towing vehicle.
- Return the Highlander's transmission to "Park," engage the parking brake, and turn off the engine.
- Disconnect the electrical wiring and remove the safety chains.
Remember, towing a vehicle can be challenging and requires proper knowledge and careful execution. If you're unsure about any aspect of the process, it's best to seek guidance from an experienced driver or a professional towing service.
