Can a Chevy Malibu tow?
Yes, but with limits: most Malibu models are not designed for heavy towing, and many model years do not publish a tow rating. When a rating exists, it is generally around 1,000 pounds (about 450 kilograms) with the right hitch and equipment. Always check the owner's manual for your exact year, trim, and whether a towing package is installed.
Understanding towing ratings across model years
To tow safely, you must know whether your specific Malibu is rated for towing and what the limit is. Ratings vary by year, engine choice, and whether a factory tow package was offered. The safest approach is to consult the owner's manual or contact a Chevrolet dealer for your exact VIN.
- In some older Malibu configurations, a towing rating existed (generally around 1,000 pounds) when a hitch and proper equipment were installed.
- Many newer Malibu versions do not come with a factory tow package and may have no official towing rating; GM guidance can vary by year, so do not assume a rating if your documentation doesn’t show one.
- Even when a rating exists, it is important to stay within the published limits and to use appropriate towing hardware, including a hitch, wiring, and any required cooling or safety equipment.
Bottom line: towing with a Malibu is limited and not universal. If you plan to tow regularly or heavier loads, consider a vehicle that is specifically engineered for towing.
Practical guidelines for towing with the Malibu
If your exact year and trim do have a towing specification, follow these best practices to stay within safe limits and protect the vehicle.
- Install and use a properly rated hitch and wiring harness for the trailer’s weight and electrical needs.
- Keep tongue weight within a safe range, typically around 10-15% of the trailer’s total weight, to maintain stability.
- Consider a transmission cooler or other manufacturer-recommended towing accessories to reduce heat buildup during towing.
- Check tire pressure and tread on both the car and trailer, and use trailer brakes if required by law or recommended for heavier trailers.
- Drive cautiously: allow extra stopping distance, manage speed on grades, and account for wind and highway crosswinds that can affect control.
If your trailer exceeds the published rating or your Malibu lacks a tow package, do not tow and seek alternatives or a different vehicle.
Alternatives to towing with the Malibu
For heavier or more frequent towing needs, these options can be safer and more economical in the long run.
When a different vehicle makes more sense
- Use a midsize SUV or pickup with a higher tow rating and factory towing hardware.
- Rent a trailer or hire a towing service for occasional needs rather than relying on a sedan with limited capacity.
- Consider a dedicated towing vehicle if you anticipate regular trailer usage, to avoid extra wear on a non-towing-focused car.
Note that towing beyond a vehicle’s capability can void warranties, increase wear, and pose safety risks. Always align your choice with official guidelines and a careful assessment of your hauling requirements.
Additional context: Chevrolet ended Malibu production after the 2023 model year, so new-model towing guidance is limited to existing inventory and owner manuals. If you’re shopping used, rely on the documentation for your specific year and trim, and consider alternatives if towing is a frequent need.
Summary
The Chevy Malibu can tow only light loads on certain years and configurations, with typical rated capacities around 1,000 pounds when a tow package is present. Many model years lack an official towing rating, and Chevrolet does not generally position the Malibu as a towing-first vehicle. For anyone needing to tow regularly or with heavier trailers, a vehicle designed for towing—such as an SUV or pickup—is a safer choice. Always verify your exact year, trim, and VIN against the owner's manual or a Chevrolet dealer, and comply with all safety and legal requirements.
Can you tow with a Chevy Malibu?
2025 Chevy Malibu Towing Capacities
As can be seen from the foregoing table, the 2025 Chevy Malibu has only a single towing capacity for all configurations. This is 1,000 pounds or 454 kilograms maximum trailer weight, with no trailering packages available.
What is the tow mode on a Chevy Malibu?
Tow/Haul — This mode keeps the vehicle in a lower gear for more torque, improving the drive when pulling a trailer or heavy load. AWD — Engages the rear wheels to help improve normal driving on paved roads that are covered with water, snow or ice. This feature is offered on SUV models with driver-selectable AWD.
How much weight can a 2015 Chevy Malibu tow?
Class II Rating: Supports up to 3,500 lbs gross trailer weight and 350 lbs tongue weight.
Can you put a trailer hitch on a Chevy Malibu?
This particular class 2 hitch is made for a custom fit on certain years of the Chevy Malibu (to verify vehicle compatibility, see application information or use the Vehicle Lookup). This Chevy Malibu hitch is rated to tow up to 3,500 lbs. gross trailer weight and 350 lbs. tongue weight.
