Hybrid Technology Unique topics related to the 2010 - 2015 RX450H model hybrid drivetrain and other features/options found only on the RX450H. Please use the main forum for discussion about shared components with other third generation RX models.

Towing a Trailer with 2013 RX450h 2WD

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old 07-01-21 | 04:07 PM
  #1  
rmjvol's Avatar
rmjvol
Thread Starter
Driver School Candidate
 
Joined: Jul 2021
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: TN
Default Towing a Trailer with 2013 RX450h 2WD

1st time poster with a 2013 RX 450h purchased in 2020. My 'simple' question is:

Do you think I can/should tow a 1650 pound load (2 jetskis & trailer) with my RX?

I have a 2WD model with no tow package installed according to a vin check at https://drivers.lexus.com/lexusdrive.../vehicle-specs

However, the vehicle has several things which seem at odds with that including what looks like a factory installed hitch & electrical harness.






According to my manual, 2WD should not tow anything. I've read several threads that dealers will not install tow package on 2WD. I'm wondering what I have.

Behind the drivers side grill below the fog light, I have what seems to be the transmission cooler (which I think is technically the Drive Motor Inverter Cooler). I've read conflicting info in threads as to whether all 3rd gen RX 450h have this, or if it's only part of the towing prep package. Does anyone know?



In the driver side front wheel well, there are vents which I've read are part of the towing package.

Two other interesting observations as I've been researching this:

1) Seems like aftermarket hitches have the option of sandwiching the hitch between the frame and the tow hooks. My tow hooks are welded to the hitch. Does that indicate a factory hitch? If this is an aftermarket hitch, I guess the tow hooks were part of the hitch as opposed to how a CURT hitch comes with no tow hooks built in. Either way, that seems like a not cheap hitch.




2) The black fascia (under body trim panel) has been nicely cut to allow access to the hitch receiver tube. Not sure if factory hitches come that way or if they have a hitch-ready version of the fascia.

I would really appreciate your thoughts on what I have and your comments on whether I can/should tow this 1650 lb load. Thanks!
Old 07-01-21 | 05:49 PM
  #2  
RadiantX45's Avatar
RadiantX45
Intermediate
 
Joined: Feb 2018
Posts: 256
Likes: 52
From: Oregon
Default

From my understanding the FWD RXh does not have adequate power to initiate a reverse maneuver without causing damage to the drivetrain when towing. Could be the previous owner installed a hitch for a bike rack and the attached electricals came along for the ride because it was included in the kit.

I personally would not tow with a fwd hybrid RX.


Last edited by RadiantX45; 07-01-21 at 05:57 PM.
Old 07-01-21 | 06:45 PM
  #3  
rmjvol's Avatar
rmjvol
Thread Starter
Driver School Candidate
 
Joined: Jul 2021
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: TN
Default

Thanks for the reply @PDITTEL

I've read several threads about the 450h not having enough power to push a load while in reverse dating as far back as this thread from 2010:
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/hyb...he-450h-2.html

But I've not heard that towing (pushing) in reverse was a concern over damage to the drivetrain, just that the electric only power can't push much before shutting down. Did you hear about the potential damage issue from a dealer or another thread or what?
Old 07-01-21 | 07:52 PM
  #4  
RadiantX45's Avatar
RadiantX45
Intermediate
 
Joined: Feb 2018
Posts: 256
Likes: 52
From: Oregon
Default

I don’t remember. Go ahead, try it, and report back with the results. Then we’ll have a definitive answer as to whether it destroys the drivetrain or not. ❤️❤️❤️
Old 07-02-21 | 06:53 AM
  #5  
jrfiero's Avatar
jrfiero
Pit Crew
 
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 133
Likes: 7
From: Massachusetts
Default

If it were my car and you’re going to be on mostly level ground, I would do it. We’re only talking 1650 pounds, you can push that around in your driveway by hand. As you point out, don’t plan on backing it up a steep driveway - I was probably one of the ones who complained my AWD wouldn’t back my loaded 3000 lb trailer up my driveway.
FYI I don’t think there are “factory installed” hitches - they’re all dealer installed or aftermarket.

Jonas
The following users liked this post:
mcomer (07-02-21)
Old 07-03-21 | 08:34 AM
  #6  
ukrkoz's Avatar
ukrkoz
Racer
 
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 1,806
Likes: 228
From: wa
Default

Unless it is some sort of unknown to me add on, there are no transmission coolers on hybrids, as ATF in PSD is splash lubricant ONLY. It is not a hydraulic fluid. Hybrids have two cooling circuits - primary engine coolant one and 2ry inverter/MGs circuit. That's it. One will have to add helluva hardware to make PSD ATF run to cool down.
As your power train is identical to Highlander Hybrid, at toyotanation, I have never noticed anyone complain about not being able to push something in revers.
Here's more than in depth exhausted question about towing with that power train:

https://www.toyotanation.com/threads...ybrid.1544842/
Old 07-04-21 | 10:43 AM
  #7  
salimshah's Avatar
salimshah
Moderator
 
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 15,748
Likes: 1,133
From: Austin, TX
Default

My understanding is Lexus does not recommend towing with FWD 450H. If you have all wheel drive, you can equip it with a hitch.

My personal view is that you can add a hitch and mount bikes on it.

Very few of these vehicles would be under warranty, so if any owner breaks something while towing, they will be on their ow,

Salim
Related Topics
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
wes77
RX - 3rd Gen (2010-2015)
119
03-10-20 09:56 AM
CanadianRX
RX - 3rd Gen (2010-2015)
7
08-26-16 09:33 PM
tennman117
RX - 2nd Gen (2004-2009)
8
07-29-13 06:26 PM
Tony
GX - 1st Gen (2003-2009)
42
08-27-04 01:41 PM
rkytop_bob
RX - 2nd Gen (2004-2009)
18
09-17-03 07:29 PM




All times are GMT -7. The time now is 08:01 PM.