2011 Toyota Highlander Owners Manual - Page 278

2-5. Driving information CAUTION n Hitches l If you wish to install a trailer hitch, contact your Toyota dealer. l Use only a hitch that conforms to the gross trailer weight requirement. l The towing capacity of 3500 lb. (1500 kg) can only be guaranteed when using a genuine Toyota hitch assembly or equivalent. l Follow the directions supplied by the hitch manufacturer. l Lubricate the hitch ball with a light coat of grease. l Remove the trailer hitch whenever you are not towing a trailer. After removing the hitch, seal any mounting hole in the vehicle body to prevent entry of any substances into the vehicle. n When towing a trailer l If the gross trailer weight exceeds 1000 lb. (453 kg), trailer brakes are required. Toyota recommends trailers with brakes that conform to all applicable federal and state/provincial regulations. l Never tap into your vehicle's hydraulic system, as this will lower the vehicle's braking effectiveness. l Never tow a trailer without using a safety chain securely attached to both the trailer and the vehicle. If damage occurs to the coupling unit or hitch ball, there is danger of the trailer wandering into another lane. 256