Toyota Highlander 2020-2024 Cargo Carrier Accessories Installation For Beginners!

Installing roof crossbars on a Toyota Highlander from 2020 to 2024 can be a straightforward process, even for those with no prior experience. Here's a general guide applicable to all trims:

1. **Gather Necessary Equipment**: Before you start, ensure you have all the required equipment. This typically includes the roof crossbars themselves, often sold as an accessory by Toyota or aftermarket brands, and any tools specified in the installation instructions.

2. **Read the Manual**: Even without experience, you can successfully install roof crossbars by carefully following the manufacturer's instructions provided with the crossbars. These instructions usually come in the form of a manual or guide. Take the time to read through it thoroughly before beginning the installation process.

3. **Locate Mounting Points**: The Highlander is designed with mounting points on the roof rails specifically for installing crossbars. These points are usually covered by plastic caps that need to be removed to reveal the mounting points.

4. **Position the Crossbars**: Once you've located the mounting points, position the crossbars accordingly. Depending on the design, you may need to adjust the width of the crossbars to fit the specific dimensions of your vehicle's roof.

5. **Attach Crossbars to Mounting Points**: Following the instructions provided, attach the crossbars to the mounting points on the roof rails. This typically involves inserting bolts or screws through the crossbars and into the mounting points, then tightening them securely.

6. **Adjust and Secure**: After attaching the crossbars, make any necessary adjustments to ensure they are properly aligned and evenly spaced. Once satisfied with the positioning, securely tighten all bolts or screws to prevent the crossbars from shifting during use.

7. **Test Stability**: Before loading any cargo onto the roof, it's essential to test the stability of the installed crossbars. Give them a firm shake to ensure they are securely attached and can support the weight of your intended cargo.

8. **Follow Weight Limits**: Be mindful of the weight limits specified for your vehicle's roof and the crossbars themselves. Exceeding these limits can compromise safety and potentially damage your vehicle.

9. **Final Check**: Once everything is in place, give your installation a final visual inspection to ensure everything is secure and properly installed.

10. **Enjoy**: With the crossbars installed, you're now ready to take advantage of the increased cargo-carrying capacity of your Toyota Highlander. Whether you're transporting bikes, kayaks, or luggage, your Highlander is now equipped to handle a variety of outdoor adventures and everyday tasks.

Materials Needed:
- Roof basket cargo carrier
- Roof rack crossbars (if not already installed)
- Mounting hardware (typically included with the roof basket)
- Socket wrench set
- Allen wrench set
- Marker or chalk
- Safety glasses

Step 1: Prepare Your Highlander
Ensure your Toyota Highlander is parked on a flat, level surface and engage the parking brake. If your vehicle doesn't have roof rack crossbars installed, you'll need to install them according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 2: Position the Roof

Basket
Lift the roof basket onto the roof of your Highlander and position it where you want it to be mounted. Make sure it's centered and aligned with the roof rack crossbars.

Step 3: Mark Mounting Points
Using a marker or chalk, mark the mounting points on the roof basket where it will attach to the roof rack crossbars. These points should align with the crossbar positions.

Step 4: Attach the Roof Basket
With the help of a friend or family member, hold the roof basket in place while you secure it to the roof rack crossbars. Use the provided mounting hardware (usually bolts and brackets) to attach the roof basket securely.

Step 5: Tighten the Bolts
Using a socket wrench and/or Allen wrench set, tighten the bolts securely. Ensure that the roof basket is firmly attached to the roof rack crossbars and there's no wobbling or movement.

Step 6: Double-Check Security
Once all bolts are tightened, double-check the security of the roof basket by gently shaking it and ensuring it's firmly in place.

Step 7: Test Load Capacity
Before hitting the road with your roof basket cargo carrier, test its load capacity by placing some weight (such as luggage or gear) inside. Make sure the weight is evenly distributed and does not exceed the manufacturer's recommended limit.

Step 8: Enjoy Your Expanded Cargo Space
With your roof basket cargo carrier securely installed, you're ready to hit the road and enjoy the extra cargo space it provides. Whether you're heading on a camping trip or simply running errands around town, your Toyota Highlander is now equipped to handle whatever you need to carry.

Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Gas Models (2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024) and on All the Trims (LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, Platinum)