Toyota Highlander's 2022 Model Suffers Rear Suspension Sag After Installing Bike Carrier, Causing It to Bottom Out on Minor Bumps
The 2022 Toyota Highlander, praised for its safety features, has been the subject of discussion among some owners regarding the sagging of the rear suspension, particularly when a bike carrier is installed. This article aims to provide solutions to help mitigate this issue.
Some users have described the Highlander's suspension as being "soft," which can exacerbate the sagging problem when extra weight is added. The sagging can lead to potential safety hazards, such as headlights pointing upwards.
To prevent sagging, the most effective solution is to use a weight distribution hitch. This device is designed to offset additional rear load by distributing weight more evenly to the front axle, correcting rear sag and improving vehicle stance and stability. A weight distribution hitch with sway control can further mitigate sag and maintain proper vehicle alignment and ride height under load.
Fine-tuning the setup may require adjusting washers or L-brackets on the hitch to achieve the correct tension and tilt, which can involve some trial and error during installation.
Alternative or supplementary options include installing rear helper springs or air suspension enhancement kits if compatible, which provide additional support to the existing rear suspension when carrying heavy loads like a bike carrier. Ensuring the bike carrier itself is mounted according to manufacturer instructions with proper tongue weight limits can prevent undue stress on the suspension.
It's important to note that installing aftermarket suspension components can void some parts of the vehicle's warranty, so it's advisable to check with the dealership before making modifications.
Researching different brands and products is essential to ensure compatibility with the Highlander model and year, and to consider customer reviews and installation instructions.
The 2022 Toyota Highlander received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA and the IIHS gave it a Top Safety Pick+ designation for models with specific headlights, suggesting that the sagging issue, while noticeable, doesn't necessarily affect overall safety in all situations.
Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter with over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, has provided valuable insights into this issue. Maciej Jakub Tyszkowski, a Toyota Highlander owner, has also asked for solutions to prevent sagging on the Toyota Highlander Owners Club Facebook page.
In summary, the best practical method is to add a weight distribution system designed for the 2022 Highlander to balance the load caused by the bike carrier and reduce rear suspension sag effectively. Professional installation may be required for some aftermarket suspension solutions.
Financial experts in the industry are advising potential buyers of the 2022 Toyota Highlander to consider the cost of additional accessories, such as weight distribution hitches, rear helper springs, or air suspension enhancement kits, due to their importance in maintaining the vehicle's safety and stability, particularly when transporting heavy items like bike carriers. The transportation sector is seeing a trend of vehicles being equipped with such accessories to meet the demands of an increasingly active lifestyle.
