Toyota Venza Forum

I have a 2001 Highlander V6 AWD which I purchased new in the first model year. It has proven to be a very expensive vehicle to keep on the road and has spent a lot of time in the shop. The biggest (but not only) problem has been with the rear brake calipers seizing. My point is that I am reluctant to buy a first year model Toyota and unless persuaded otherwise I will wait for the 2010 Venza.

Has anyone done any towing with the Venza? I want it to tow a small trailer (about 2200lbs.) Although rated to tow 3500 lbs. the Highlander is just adequate for the trailer. The Venza has more hp and torque so should be up to the task. What's included in the towing package? The brochure only mentions it briefly.

How about roof racks? I have a Yakima set I use for my canoe and kayak. The Yakima site sells 'towers' which are supposed to fit the Venza but it's not clear to me what they attach to. My current rack clamps to the rails of the factory rack.

Thanks.

Bill

Hey Bill,

I just took delivery a couple of hours ago, the "TO" package, includes: oil cooler, larger rad. fan, a higher output alt. Not muuch to it.
Hope this helps. Good Luck!

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Ken
Severna Park, Md
6 cyl., AWD, Metallic Silver
Prem#2, NV, SR, & TO packages, Curtis hitch
Door edge guards, Body side moldings, rear bumper protector

I ordered my Venza with the Tow Package. I aslo ordered the roof rack and trailer hitch. I was told the roof racks come from Toyota but have to be special ordered and the hitch they order from an after market company.

I don't have either yet. Will get back when I do.

I have the glass roof so I don't really know where the roof rack will be attached.

I also got the V6 with the tow package. Of course, the hitch does not come with it. Toyota wants an obscene amount for the hitch and the installation. I ordered mine on line, installed it myself, and save literally hundreds of dollars. Marco

Does Toyota include any wiring in the 'package'? Like maybe for a break controller.

I also have the Venza with the panoramic glass roof ...it was my understanding that a roof rack is not recommended due to the stress that would be placed on the glass. I wanted a roof rack to tote my kayaks on the weekend...I would be very interested if you can install your roof rack....FRANK

I also have the panoramic roof. I do have a set of mega-suction cup mounts (4) for carrying things on a roof. However, my suggestion is to forego the roof rack for the kayaks and get a small trailer for them. Perhaps you can get a trailer which would also take whatever related gear you need.

I did not get the towing package with my Venza......So I cannot use a trailer for my kayaks..FRANK

I just bought a 2010 with the panoramic roof and ordered a roof rack for it from the dealer. I, at first, thought it was not doable with the glass roof, but the dealer told me it was and also showed me a picture in the 2010 brochure that shows a Venza with panoramic roof and roof rack installed. My rack is in but I haven't been able to make it to the dealer for the installation. If interested, I'll let you know how it turns out.

Tomorrow morning is my appointment with the dealer to have the roof rack installed. I hope it goes well. I will post the results.