Can my Chevy Traverse pull a trailer?
Yes. When properly equipped, the Chevy Traverse can tow up to about 5,000 pounds. If you don’t have the optional Trailering Package or you’re looking at an older model, your capacity will be lower. Always verify the exact rating on your vehicle’s door sticker or in the owner’s manual.
The question goes beyond a single number. Towing capability depends on the year, engine, drivetrain, and whether the vehicle has factory towing equipment. This article lays out the current capabilities, how to confirm your exact rating, and practical tips for towing with a Traverse.
What affects towing capacity on a Traverse
Several variables determine how much weight your Traverse can safely tow. The following points highlight the main considerations you should check before hitching up a trailer.
- Engine and transmission: The standard setup is a 3.6L V6 paired with a 9-speed automatic, which enables higher towing limits when paired with proper equipment.
- Drivetrain: Two-wheel drive versus all-wheel drive configuration can influence the published rating depending on the model year and configuration.
- Trailering Package availability: This factory option typically unlocks the higher 5,000-pound rating by adding hardware and tuning that support towing.
- GVWR and payload: The vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating and your passengers/cargo load reduce the amount available for trailer weight.
- Trailer brakes and hitch: Trailers with electric brakes may require a brake controller and a compatible wiring harness; a proper hitch is essential for safe towing.
In short, your actual capacity comes from the combination of the vehicle’s rating, how you equip it, and how heavy your payload is when you add a trailer.
How to prepare your Traverse for towing
Before you tow, complete these steps to ensure safety and compliance with the vehicle’s rating.
- Check your exact towing rating on the door placard or owner’s manual for your specific model year and trim.
- Install or verify the Trailering Package if your plan is to tow near the upper limit (this typically includes a more robust hitch and wiring harness).
- Verify hitch class and weight rating; ensure you have a properly rated hitch receiver (commonly 2 inches).
- Evaluate payload: ensure passengers and cargo don’t push you past the GVWR; factor in tongue weight and trailer weight.
- Consider trailer brakes: if your trailer weighs more than a state threshold, it will require electric brakes; plan for a brake controller if needed.
With proper preparation, you’ll be within the Traverse’s designed towing envelope and safer on the road.
Best practices for towing with a Traverse
While towing, follow these guidelines to maintain control and reduce wear on the vehicle.
- Distribute weight properly: aim for appropriate tongue weight (roughly 10-15% of the trailer’s total weight) and balanced cargo in the trailer.
- Use moderate speeds and gradual braking; towing bandwidth is different from regular driving and requires planning for longer stopping distances.
- Allow extra room for turns and lane changes; practice backing up with the trailer to prevent jackknifing or jackknifing-like maneuvers.
- Check the trailer connection before every trip: lights, brakes, and hitch security should be verified.
- Adhere to local towing laws and manufacturer guidelines; avoid exceeding the published rating, especially if you’re new to towing.
Following these best practices helps keep you and others safe while towing with the Traverse.
Summary
The Chevy Traverse is capable of towing up to about 5,000 pounds when equipped with the Trailering Package and a 3.6L V6, as shown in current model specifications. Always confirm your exact rating on the door sticker or in the owner’s manual for your year and trim, and prepare properly with the right hitch, payload management, and, if required, a trailer brake controller. For frequent or heavy towing, consult a dealer to review your configuration and options to ensure safe, compliant use.
How do I know if my SUV can tow a trailer?
To determine maximum towing capacity, you will need to know the vehicle manufacturer's weight ratings and compare them against the gross weight of your trailer.
Can you pull a trailer with a Chevy Traverse?
The Standard Trailering Package
Since all 2025 Chevrolet Traverse models have the ability to tow up to 5,000 pounds, all models are equipped with towing gear. The standard Trailering Package comes with several important features that make towing easier. All models have a hitch and hitch cover.
How do I know if my Chevy Traverse has a tow package?
You can see if you have the Chevy Traverse Trailering Package by reversing and checking for the Hitch Guidance button on your Infotainment screen.
What is the bad year for the Traverse?
This issue isn't unique to the Traverse, though. At some point in any model's life, it was almost certain to have seen transmission issues. Being that it seems that the 2010, and 2011 models are the worst to get, most models after 2013 will serve you well.
