Can I Tow without Tow Pkg? - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

mtran868 · 12-19-2011, 12:01 PM

I have a 2008 Toyota Highlander. It has no tow pkg. The Highlander with tow pkg can tow 5k lbs. I've been towing my rig (2011 MPG 3200 lbs loaded) since May 2011 without problems but haven't gone farther than 30 miles one way.

I've been thinking about adding a transmission cooler. Will this be sufficient? Or do I need to get a new vehicle? I want to go on longer trips but not sure how the Highlander will handle it.

deadrx7conv · 12-19-2011, 12:39 PM

This puts you into a service service category.

But, you can tow without the tow package. The owners manual should give you the weight limit.

You should install a transmission cooler.

***newsrv*** · 12-19-2011, 06:31 PM

Toyota spec for the 08 without the tow package is 2,000 pounds. The transmission cooler is a good addition. Maybe add an engine oil cooler. Does your trailer (MPD3200 ??) have brakes?

***Zembonez*** · 12-19-2011, 06:38 PM

3200 pounds should be OK with good trailer brakes and a trans cooler. Pulling heavy stuff in a unibody FWD car spooks me though.