How to Install a Trailer Hitch on a Toyota RAV4 (2019-2021)
Adding a trailer hitch to a Toyota RAV4 requires only a few tools, a Draw-Tite 76201 trailer hitch, and a short amount of time to complete the installation. This trailer hitch and installation process will work for the Toyota Rav4 model years 2019-2021.
Follow these basic steps to begin hauling trailers and other kinds of hitch-mounted accessories with your Toyota Rav4 today.
Tools needed:
- Safety Glasses
- Strap
- Spray Bottle
- Flathead Screwdriver
- Exhaust Removal Pliers
- Torque wrench
- 19mm & Crows Foot Adapter
Toyota RAV4 (2019-2021) hitch installation steps
1. Prep Underbody
Lower your exhaust. It's held in place by three rubber hangers; one on the driver's side, one on the passenger side, and one right down the middle.
Secure the exhaust using a support strap by wrapping it around the exhaust and the cross member.
With the exhaust supported, use exhaust removal pliers to remove all three of the grommets. Spray hangers with some soapy water to help loosen, then lower the exhaust system onto your support strap.
2. Raise hitch into position
Now line up the two holes on the side of your hitch with the two weld nuts that are exposed on both sides of your vehicle by taking off those stickers.
We recommend you use an extra pair of hands so you don’t cause any damage to yourself, the vehicle, or even the hitch if you accidentally drop it.
3. Secure the hitch to the frame
so now you're ready to bring all of your bolts into place that your hitch is lined up for each weld nut, you have a bolt and conical tooth washer. make sure that the teeth on this are facing towards the hitch.
now the passenger side is tight so I recommend that you do the driver side first which will help hold the hitch into place as you're putting the bolts in on the passenger side.
4. Tighten and torque hitch
Use a 19mm socket to tighten and torque all of your bolts to the manufacturer's specification. There's not enough room on the passenger side to bring a socket into place, so use a crow's foot adapter.
5. Reattach Exhaust
Reattach your exhaust with the three hangers.
You should now have your trailer hitch installed on your Toyota RAV4.
How much does it cost to add a hitch for a Toyota RAV4 (2019-2021)?
The price range of a hitch for a Toyota RAV4 ranges from $160 to $180. U-Haul carries several different classes of hitches and offers different sizes to accommodate both 1¼ to 2-inch receivers. U-Haul offers both installation services at a local U-Haul Moving Center® and will ship your hitch to your home.
How much does it cost to have a hitch installed on a Toyota RAV4 (2019-2021)?
Installation costs are normally under $100 but you should check with your local U-Haul Moving Center® as prices can differ based on location, the hitch model you are installing, and your vehicle. All U-Haul Moving Centers can install a hitch to your vehicle and with over 1,500 U-Haul centers throughout the country, you can have your hitch installed and be back on the road in no time.
All trailer hitches sold and installed at a U-Haul Moving Center® come with the option of a lifetime warranty plan guaranteed to replace your hitch with no limitation for any damage, including collision, corrosion, accidental overload, jackknifing, and vehicle theft.
How long does it take to install a hitch on a Toyota RAV4 (2019-2021)?
Installation takes anywhere from 1 to 2 ½ hours depending on the hitch being installed and your vehicle. We recommend making an online appointment from our website to accommodate your busy schedule. In addition, U-Haul service centers offer an extensive line of towing accessories (Ball mount, Hitch ball, Pin, and Clip, Wiring) to help you safely tow your boat, camper, or trailer.
Do you need a wiring kit for Toyota RAV4 (2019-2021)?
If you are planning to tow a trailer or camper with brake lights, running lights, and turn signal, you will want a wiring kit to power the lights on your trailer. The most common lighting harness comes in a 4 pin and 7 pin connector. The 4- way connector has basic lighting functions (running lights, brake lights, turn signal) while the 7-way connector adds a 12-volt circuit, circuit for electric trailer brakes, and reverse lights. U-Haul offers both 4-way and 7-way connectors. Find out which option is best for your Toyota RAV4.