Can a regular car pull a small trailer?
Yes. A regular passenger car can tow a small trailer, but only if the trailer's weight, tongue weight, and load stay within the car's official towing specifications and you comply with safety and local laws.
Understanding towing limits for a regular car
To determine whether your car can safely tow a small trailer, you need to know the key weight ratings and how they interact. Manufacturers publish towing-related figures that tell you what your vehicle can handle, and those numbers should guide your decision before hitching anything up.
- Max towing capacity (gross trailer weight, GTW): the total weight the vehicle can pull behind it. This varies widely—from about 1,000 pounds on smaller sedans to several thousand pounds on some crossovers and SUVs. Always check the official rating for your exact model and drivetrain.
- Tongue weight (TW) limit: the downward force the trailer exerts on the hitch. A common target is roughly 10–15% of the trailer’s gross weight. The hitch and suspension must be able to tolerate this load without affecting steering or braking.
- Gross combined weight rating (GCWR): the maximum combined weight of the vehicle, passengers/cargo, and the trailer. The actual loaded weight must not exceed GCWR.
- Hitch class and tongue weight rating: the vehicle’s hitch must be compatible with the trailer’s weight and deliver the appropriate tongue weight. Using a hitch with insufficient capacity can damage the vehicle and create safety risks.
- Trailer braking and electrical requirements: many places require trailer brakes above a certain weight, and the trailer’s lights and wiring must function correctly. The car may also need a brake controller or a factory tow package.
In practice, these numbers determine whether a regular car can safely tow a given small trailer. If the trailer’s GTW plus the vehicle’s weight exceed GCWR, or the TW exceeds the hitch’s or vehicle’s capacity, towing should not be attempted.
How to determine and prepare
Follow these steps to verify readiness and prepare for towing with a regular car. This checklist helps ensure safety, legality, and reliability on the road.
- Check the owner's manual or manufacturer website for the exact towing rating and any required equipment, such as a factory tow package or a transmission cooler.
- Weigh the trailer and its cargo to compute the trailer gross weight (TGW) and tongue weight (TW); aim for TW around 10–15% of TGW and ensure it fits the hitch’s capabilities.
- Confirm that the combined weight of the loaded trailer, the vehicle, and all passengers/cargo remains under the GCWR and that the vehicle’s GVWR (vehicle weight including passengers) is not exceeded.
- Install the appropriate hitch, ball size, and mounting hardware rated for the trailer’s weight; ensure the hitch class matches the trailer and has adequate tongue weight capacity.
- Check if trailer brakes are required by weight or jurisdiction and install a brake controller if necessary; verify trailer lights, wiring, and safety chains for proper operation.
Completing these steps reduces the risk of loss of control, overheating, or legal penalties while towing with a regular car.
Safe towing practices to keep in mind
Beyond meeting weight and equipment requirements, safe towing depends on driving adjustments and maintenance. Drive slower, allow extra stopping distance, use lower gears on grades, and routinely check connections during trips. If you’re unsure about any aspect of towing with your specific vehicle, consult a dealership or qualified tow specialist.
Summary
Most regular cars can tow a small trailer, provided the trailer’s weight and load stay within the vehicle’s official towing limits, the hitch and brakes are correctly installed, and local laws are followed. Always verify numbers in the owner’s manual, accurately weigh your trailer and cargo, and perform due diligence on braking, lighting, and safety equipment before heading out.
