Which Towbar?

[John Allen]

I have a 2020 RAV4.5 AWD Excel and need to get a towbar fitted before the end of February 2023 as we will need to tow the caravan.  Currently Toyota HQ cannot give any indication of when they are going to be available as there is, a worldwide shortage.  I have been able to get the wiring harness from them so that part of the puzzle is solved.  I am considering a third party towbar with detachable tow hook (Witter/Westfalia or Brink) Do any of our estimed forum members have any experienc of any of these on a RAV4.5.  I know some of them protrude downwards more than others and all require a bumper cut.  I was also considering having the wiring loom fitted in advance by the main dealer as they will possibly need to reprogram the electrics and some towbar companies state they cannot do that for this model.  Any advice, experience or tips will be gratefully received.

[NASY]

My Toyota factory fit tow bar is made by Brink.

[Parts-King]

I think Brink make all of the Toyota genuine tow bars. Good idea to get the genuine electrics, they are quality, but do require running inside the car from front to rear. No programming needed though 

 

[John Allen]

Thanks Nasy and Parts King.  I had my suspicions that it was Brink that made the towbar for Toyota but when I downloaded the actual installation manual from Toyota and compared the illustrations with the installation manual downloaded for the Brink there appeared to be physical differences.  This left me confused which I will admit is not particularly difficult. I have seen photosd of a Westfalia fitted to a Rav 4.5 and that looked very similar.  I will look for an installation manual for a Westfalia and compare that.  

Regarding the electrics, according to the Toyota Iinstallation manual you only need to run the electrics to the rear lights and across the back of the car (with fuse) to the 12V Battery which is obviously in the rear for a Hybrid (for the constant 12V feed for Caravan Fridge etc)

Thanks for your help guys