Can a Chevy Equinox be towed?
Yes, you can tow a Chevy Equinox, but not by flat-towing the vehicle with all four wheels on the ground in most configurations. The safe, manufacturer-approved approach is to tow the Equinox on a trailer or with a tow dolly, depending on the year and drivetrain. Always refer to the specific owner's manual for your vehicle.
Understanding towability by year and drivetrain
To determine whether your Equinox can be towed and how, you must map the model year and drivetrain against Chevrolet's official towing guidance. Towing rules vary by engine, transmission, and whether the model is FWD or AWD, and whether a towing package is installed.
Drivetrain considerations
Front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive Equinox models may have different restrictions on flat towing. In general, GM does not recommend flat towing four wheels on the ground for many Equinox configurations, because it can damage the transmission and drivetrain if the engine is not running and lubricants are not circulating. The recommended method is to tow on a trailer or with a tow dolly, or to use a professional towing service.
Weight and braking considerations
Trailer weight ratings and the need for brakes on the trailer depend on the model year, engine and the towing setup. The owner's manual lists the exact limits and whether a braking system on the trailer is required by law. Always ensure the tow vehicle and trailer are properly configured with lights, brakes, and weight distribution equipment.
Common towing methods for the Equinox
The following options are typically used by owners, though not all are permitted for every year/model. Review your manual and Chevrolet's towing guide for the exact allowances.
- Tow on a trailer: The Equinox is loaded onto a flatbed or weight-rated trailer and towed behind the towing vehicle. This is the safest approach for most models.
- Tow dolly: Some front-wheel-drive models can be towed with the front tires on a dolly and the rear tires on the ground, but AWD configurations may have restrictions. Always verify with the manual.
- Flatbed tow: For certain situations, a flatbed tow may be used if the vehicle must be moved without any wheels turning on the ground.
- Professional towing service: If you are unsure of the correct method, hire a licensed tow company that can follow the vehicle’s towing requirements.
Conclusion: Generally, flat-towing four wheels on the ground is not recommended for most Equinox models. Use a trailer, dolly, or flatbed when advised by Chevrolet, and always follow the official guidance for your exact model year and drivetrain.
Steps to plan towing safely
To ensure you tow your Equinox safely and legally, follow these steps. Each step is important to protect the vehicle and other road users.
- Consult the owner’s manual or Chevrolet’s official towing guide for your exact year, engine, and drivetrain.
- Identify the recommended towing method (trailer, dolly, or flatbed) based on the guidance for your configuration.
- Verify that the hitch, trailer, and any braking system are correctly rated and installed, and that lighting and braking connections work.
- Ensure the towed vehicle’s parking brake is set and the transmission is in the correct position per the manual; if required, disable or secure features as instructed.
- Drive cautiously, following all towing-related safety practices and local laws.
Note: Towing rules can change with new model years; always check the latest Chevrolet towing documentation and consult a dealer if you have any doubt.
Summary
Most Chevrolet Equinox models are not intended to be flat-towed with all four wheels on the ground. The recommended method is to move the vehicle on a trailer or tow dolly, with the exact approach depending on year and drivetrain. Always verify the official towing instructions for your specific model year and equipment. When in doubt, seek professional towing assistance.
