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I am looking to buy a minivan, probably Honda or Toyota, already talking with dealers. My dilemma is that I want a tow package and mostly everyone is telling me that they can install it while I would feel more comfortable if it was factory installed. Does it make a difference? Should I insist on a factory installed towing system or does it really matter? Pleeeeease help me; I have NO idea.
We want the towing capability in case we would want to go camping but really MAINLY to haul a very small trailer for our luggage so that inside the minivan we are left w/plenty of room for our 4 kids and huge dog.
I know you guys give great advice! Looking forward to it. Thanks!!
I always say get the factory towing package. For one, it almost always look better and factory. Second, it usually includes a tranny cooler and an upgraded alternator. Sure you can have this installed afterwards, but why not have it done from the factory and avoid any warranty or fitment issues? Plus it's all wrapped up in your financing. I trust the guys on the line more than the ones in the service department.
That being said, if the Honda or Toyota dealer can add the factory tow package on just like from the factory (hitch, wiring, cooler, etc) then I would go for that.
Go to a shop that specializes in tow hitches like a truck accessory store or u-haul they can bolt on a hitch for you.
The car dealer will cost you more for the same thing.
ps for a small trailer like you want to tow a up graded ALT or extra weight capacity or trany or power steering coolers are not necessary and if you do feel it is necessary the chances are they can install them for you cheaper then if you got the "tow" package and they will work just as good or better.
One minivan that has the tow already included says this: Towing Prep Package- engine oil cooler, larger radiator and fan-
are these things stuff that can be retro fitted by the service dept. be it of Honda or Toyota, included wiring, and it would be the same thing OR as mentioned by PokerMunkee, getting it from the factory would be a better choice. As far as the hitch, yeah, we would go w/a business that specializes in that, but I don't know if I am making a big deal of factory installed or retro fit. Thanks for ya'lls advice!
You can haul trailers weighing up to 3,500 pounds (350 pounds tongue weight) with the Towing Package. Check out your Owner's Manual for more details on towing with your new Honda.
Class II Trailer Hitch mounts directly to the frame for optimum performance, strength, and security.
2" receiver design supports a variety of trailer coupler designs.
Trailer Hitch includes draw bar, retaining pin, and retaining clip.
Automatic Transmission Fluid cooler (ATF) helps prevent wear to your transmission while towing.
MSRP is $936. Pricey.
Here is the Toyota's:
Towing Prep Package – includes 3500-lb. towing capacity, engine oil cooler, heavy-duty radiator and fan. $220 on LE and standard on the other models.
Go with the Sienna and get the dual sunroofs, coolest van out IMO. Sounds like a hitch needs to be installed on all of the Siennas at the dealer or a 3rd party.
You can haul trailers weighing up to 3,500 pounds (350 pounds tongue weight) with the Towing Package. Check out your Owner's Manual for more details on towing with your new Honda.
Class II Trailer Hitch mounts directly to the frame for optimum performance, strength, and security.
2" receiver design supports a variety of trailer coupler designs.
Trailer Hitch includes draw bar, retaining pin, and retaining clip.
Automatic Transmission Fluid cooler (ATF) helps prevent wear to your transmission while towing.
MSRP is $936. Pricey.
.
Problem here is a class 2 receiver has the 1 1/4" bar and not the 2" that is standard on a class 3 or class 4.
So all the Honda dealers are telling me that installing the tow package is something that is done only afterwards. I figure if that is the case then retro fitting it probably will be just fine. At least that is what I am hoping.
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