Can I tow a camper with a Chevy Equinox?
Yes, you can tow a small camper with a Chevy Equinox, but capability depends on your model year, engine, and whether your vehicle has the proper tow package. In many modern Equinox models, towing limits sit around 1,500 pounds for the smaller engine options, while some configurations with more power or older generations equipped with a tow package can approach roughly 3,500 pounds.
Understanding towing capacity by engine and year
As a compact SUV, the Equinox’s towing capability varies widely across model years and configurations. The 1.5-liter turbo engine commonly found in newer models typically supports about 1,500 pounds of trailer weight (braked trailers). More powerful engines or older generations that offer a Trailering Package can push toward around 3,500 pounds. Always verify the exact rating for your vehicle using your VIN, the owner's manual, or Chevrolet’s official specifications, since numbers change with updates and equipment.
Below is a quick snapshot of how capacities can differ by setup. This is a guide and not a substitute for the official rating for your exact vehicle.
- 1.5-liter turbo engine: typically up to about 1,500 pounds of total trailer weight (braked trailers; unbraked limits are lower and vary by year).
- 2.0-liter turbo engine or other higher-power configurations: can reach up to about 3,500 pounds with the proper tow package and hitch.
- Higher-powered or older Equinox models with the Trailering Package: up to around 3,500 pounds.
In short, engine power and the availability of a tow package largely determine the practical limit. Always check the exact numbers for your specific vehicle before towing anything.
Safety and setup considerations
To determine whether you can tow your camper with your Equinox, consider the following checks. These steps help ensure you stay within legal and safe limits while towing.
- Check the vehicle’s GVWR, GCWR, and maximum tow rating for your exact model year and trim via the owner's manual or Chevrolet’s official spec sheet (accessible by VIN).
- Compare the camper’s GVWR with the Equinox’s towing rating; the trailer’s weight should not exceed the vehicle’s limit, and the combined weight should stay within the GCWR.
- Choose the appropriate hitch class and confirm the capacity; for heavier trailers, use a weight-distribution hitch and ensure proper installation.
- Ensure the trailer has functioning brakes, lights, and turn signals; heavier loads typically require trailer brakes, and some jurisdictions may require a trailer brake controller in the tow vehicle.
- Calculate tongue weight as roughly 10–15% of the trailer’s total weight to maintain balance and stability; adjust hitch setup accordingly.
- Account for additional weight from passengers, fuel, and cargo in the vehicle and trailer when planning your tow, and plan for longer stopping distances.
- Practice towing with a lighter load first to build experience before attempting to tow a larger camper.
If the camper exceeds the vehicle’s rated capacity or the necessary equipment isn’t installed, towing is not advised. In those cases, consider a larger tow vehicle or a lighter camper, and always follow local laws and Chevrolet’s guidance.
Summary
The Chevy Equinox can tow small campers, but you must verify the exact towing capacity for your model year and engine, use the proper hitch and tow equipment, and stay within weight limits. For many newer Equinoxes with the 1.5L engine, that limit is around 1,500 pounds, while some configurations can approach 3,500 pounds with the right package. Always consult your VIN-specific Chevrolet specs and the owner’s manual, perform careful weight calculations, and prioritize safety on the road. If in doubt, seek a larger vehicle or a lighter camper to ensure a safe tow.
