Where is the front tow hook on the Prado?
2 Answers
Located under the car's bumper. The tow hook is also known as a tow ball, rear ball-type tow hook, or tow bar, etc. Broadly speaking, a tow ball consists of three parts: a fixed bracket, the ball, and a power harness (power control unit). These three components together form a complete trailer ball system. Below is an introduction to the types of tow hooks: 1. Front-mounted: This type is equipped at the front of the vehicle to facilitate towing by a rescue vehicle when the vehicle breaks down; 2. Rear-mounted: Typically found on SUVs, trucks, pickups, and other high-torque vehicles used for towing other vehicles, meaning these are the types of vehicles that can serve as "rescue vehicles."
I've been off-roading with my Prado for years, and the front tow hook location is easy to find—it's right below the front bumper, near the license plate. There's usually a black plastic cover over it; you can gently pry it open with your finger or a small pry bar to reveal a metal threaded hole. The hook itself isn't permanently attached; it's stored in the tool kit in the trunk or near the spare tire. You'll need to retrieve it and screw it into the hole. When installing, make sure to tighten it thoroughly, preferably using a wrench for extra security to prevent any dangerous loosening during towing. The location is standard across most models—front and lower. When towing, pull the rope slowly to avoid snagging other parts of the vehicle. An extra reminder: hook size compatibility is crucial. The Prado has limited towing capacity, so don't exceed 2 tons. Safety comes first—always check the hole for cleanliness and rust before each use.
