Yes, you can dolly tow a Toyota Highlander, and it is often advisable to dolly tow it as an effective method for transport. This option is generally preferred over flat towing for this particular vehicle.
When considering towing your Highlander, it's crucial to understand the best practices and essential requirements to ensure safety and prevent potential damage.
Why Dolly Towing is a Recommended Option
For many vehicles, including the Toyota Highlander, dolly towing (where only two wheels of the vehicle are on the ground) is often recommended over flat towing (where all four wheels are on the ground). Generally speaking, you cannot flat tow your Toyota Highlander without risking damage to the transmission or drivetrain. Dolly towing provides a safer alternative by lifting the drive wheels off the ground, thus preventing wear and tear or mechanical issues that can arise from flat towing.
Key Considerations for Dolly Towing Your Highlander
Before you dolly tow your Toyota Highlander, several factors must be carefully considered to ensure a safe and successful tow:
- Towing Vehicle Capacity: You should always make sure the vehicle doing the towing is able to handle the size of the Highlander and has the right capabilities. The tow vehicle's weight rating (Gross Combined Weight Rating - GCWR, Towing Capacity) must exceed the combined weight of the Highlander and the tow dolly.
- Highlander's Drivetrain (FWD vs. AWD):
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Highlanders: These models are typically well-suited for dolly towing. The front wheels, which are the drive wheels, should be positioned securely on the tow dolly, lifting them off the ground. The rear wheels will remain on the road.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Highlanders: Dolly towing an AWD Highlander is generally not recommended unless specific, manufacturer-approved procedures are followed, such as disconnecting the driveshaft, or if using a specialized dolly that lifts all four wheels (which essentially turns it into a flatbed trailer). Leaving two wheels on the ground can lead to severe damage to the AWD system or transmission. For AWD models, a flatbed trailer that lifts all four wheels off the ground is usually the safest and most recommended option.
- Owner's Manual Consultation: Always consult your specific Toyota Highlander's owner's manual for definitive towing instructions and any model-year-specific restrictions or recommendations.
- Proper Dolly Selection: Ensure the tow dolly is rated for the weight and width of your Highlander.
- Secure Attachment: Correctly secure the Highlander to the dolly according to the dolly manufacturer's instructions, ensuring the wheels are properly strapped down and the steering wheel is locked (if applicable).
- Braking System: If the combined weight of your Highlander and the dolly exceeds certain limits, the dolly may require its own braking system, or your tow vehicle might need a supplemental braking system. Check local regulations.
Towing Options Summary
| Towing Method | Suitability for Toyota Highlander (General) | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Dolly Towing | Recommended for FWD models. Generally not for AWD models without special considerations. | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): Place drive wheels on the dolly. Ensure adequate towing vehicle capacity and proper securing. All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Generally not recommended without specific drivetrain modifications or a dolly that lifts all four wheels (e.g., a flatbed trailer). Serious damage can occur. Always check the owner's manual. |
| Flat Towing | Not Recommended. | Towing a Highlander with all four wheels on the ground can lead to severe transmission or drivetrain damage. This method is generally unsuitable for the Highlander. |
| Flatbed Trailer | Highly Recommended for all models, especially AWD. | Provides the safest and most secure transport by lifting all four wheels off the ground. Ideal for long distances or when dolly towing is not suitable for your specific Highlander model. Requires a tow vehicle with sufficient towing capacity to handle the Highlander's weight plus the trailer's weight. |
Steps for Dolly Towing Your FWD Toyota Highlander (General Guide)
If you have a FWD Highlander and confirm dolly towing is appropriate via your owner's manual, here's a general process:
- Prepare the Tow Vehicle: Ensure your tow vehicle is properly hitched and has functioning lights.
- Position the Dolly: Place the tow dolly directly in front of the Highlander.
- Drive On: Carefully drive the front wheels of your Highlander onto the dolly ramps until they are securely seated in the wheel cradles.
- Secure the Wheels: Use robust ratcheting straps to firmly secure the Highlander's front wheels to the dolly's wheel cradles. Double-check for tightness.
- Lock the Steering (if applicable): Some dolly designs require the Highlander's steering wheel to be locked straight. Others allow it to be unlocked for articulation. Refer to your dolly's instructions.
- Safety Chains: Attach safety chains from the Highlander's frame to the dolly, providing an extra layer of security.
- Check Lights and Connections: Ensure the dolly's lights are connected and working correctly with your tow vehicle.
- Final Inspection: Perform a thorough check of all connections, straps, and chains before starting your journey.
Essential Equipment for Dolly Towing
- Tow Dolly: Rated for the Highlander's weight.
- Wheel Straps: Heavy-duty straps to secure the vehicle's wheels to the dolly.
- Safety Chains: For additional security between the vehicle and the dolly.
- Tow Hitch: Compatible with your tow vehicle and the dolly.
- Wiring Harness: For brake lights, turn signals, and running lights on the dolly.
- Tow Vehicle: Capable of handling the combined weight.
Always prioritize safety and consult the owner's manuals for both your Toyota Highlander and the tow dolly for precise instructions and weight limitations. When in doubt, transporting your Highlander on a flatbed trailer is the safest option.
