Thorough testing of the tow hitch design is conducted both on and off the vehicle to ensure its capabilities including:
precise computer simulations, used to analyze stress points, assess impact forces and examine design efficiency
steel prototypes for real-world testing; extensive fatigue testing to assess long-term mechanical durability
On-road testing to ensure the hitch precisely matches vehicle towing capacity.
All Toyota hitches are manufactured by expert welders, press operators and painters.
Dual-layer painting process features a protective paint called electro-deposition coasting or e-coat to help protect against corrosion and the environment, along with a powder topcoat to protect against UV rays and maintain long-term appearance. In contrast, aftermarket tow hitches typically use single-layer paint.
Advanced, no-drill hitch and wire harness installation process maintains the structural integrity of the vehicle frame; in contrast, some aftermarket towing systems can compromise the vehicle by drilling holes into the steel frame, causing rust and stress points on the vehicle frame.
Custom replacement fascia pieces, matching vehicle contours and color, are provided if parts of rear fascia need to be removed to accommodate the hitch integrating the appearance of the vehicle bumper and hitch. Aftermarket towing systems can't provide this integration.
Genuine Toyota hitches have up to 16 connection points to the vehicle frame to transfer the force of towing across the vehicle to reduce stress and preserve the integrity of the body structure; most aftermarket hitches have fewer than 6 connection points.