A Toyota owner ran into a towing issue with the 2025 Tacoma and offered a solution for this problem.
In a TikTok that’s generated over 122,900 views as of this writing, Jon (@trdjon) says a standard receiver and hitch pin are going to have issues with the 2025 Tacoma.
“If you picked up a new 2025 Toyota Tacoma, you may have this problem,” Jon begins.
Jon showcases how the hooks will not be able to connect when using a standard receiver and hitch pin. After inserting the hitch pin, Jon reveals the hook won’t fit due to the new engineering design of the Tacoma.
Typically, Jon would complain about something like this, but Toyota did provide a solution. “They know about this. Right here, with every new Tacoma, you have an extended hitch receiver pin,” Jon shares.
New Tacoma owners can find this extended hitch receiver pin in the glovebox.
“All you need to do is take the one that Toyota provides; get the shorter one out there. Go ahead and put this longer one in. Take the little hitch pin right there. Boom, put it in. You’re good to go,” Jon reveals.
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While providing an extended hitch pin is a thoughtful move by Toyota, standard-size hitch pins work on most vehicles, Jon says.
“Any idea why they reinvented the wheel?” one commenter asked.
“Stronger and less susceptible to damage on the trail,” Jon replied.
Jon told Motor1, “I think this thicker hitch has to do with the new TNGF frames Toyota uses on these new trucks. Thicker and stronger frames than before. I want to think too that this dual wall also helps in resisting damage while off- road. I drugged my hitch a lot while out in Moab, Utah, and it held up great. Not sure if I had a thinner-walled hitch or if it would do the same.”
How Much Does It Cost to Replace an Extended Hitch Pin?
While Jon believes this switch to extended hitch pins was to reduce damage on the trail, commenters thought otherwise.
Commenters chimed in, saying this move is a cash grab from Toyota.
The top comment on the post said, “Replacement $499.99.”
“Just a money grab wherever they can get you,” another replied.
“Now I know why they cost $50k. The cost of that pin must be astronomical,” a third added.
While commenters were scoffing at this move by Toyota, other commenters provided insight by sharing that the extended hitch pin can be purchased relatively cheap.
“Even if you don’t have the factory one, these are about 10 bucks,” one commenter replied.
“New tundra owner, I had the same problem. It didn’t come with one but they’re like $15” another added.
On Toyota, hitch pins are listed out to be around $9.
Prices elsewhere for extended hitch pins will range from $5 on the low end and up to $40 for higher-grade.
Is This Just A Toyota Tacoma Issue?
While this video primarily focused on the Toyota Tacoma, other Toyota drivers mentioned they also experienced this issue with other Toyota models.
“Toyota Sequoia is like this as well. I have to get a super duty pin from Walmart to be able to lock it,” one commenter said.
“Same issue with 4Runner by the way,” another shared.
Additionally, a Toyota dealership salesman revealed that the standard-size hitch pin will be too short for the Tacoma, Land Cruiser, and 4Runner.
Additionally, Toyota Tundra drivers have reported this issue with the trailer hitch pitch not being long enough.
