Can you add a trailer package to a Traverse?
Yes, you can add a trailer package to a Chevrolet Traverse. The Traverse is a midsize SUV that can be equipped with a factory-installed trailer towing package, allowing you to haul a trailer or boat behind the vehicle.
Trailer Towing Capabilities of the Chevrolet Traverse
The Chevrolet Traverse comes standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 310 horsepower. When properly equipped with the available towing package, the Traverse can tow up to 5,000 pounds. This towing capacity allows you to haul a variety of trailers, including small campers, boat trailers, and utility trailers.
The towing package includes several key components to enable safe and stable towing, such as a heavy-duty cooling system, a trailer hitch receiver, and a 7-pin wiring harness. These features work together to ensure your Traverse can handle the added weight and strain of towing a trailer.
How to Add a Trailer Package to a Traverse
To add a trailer package to your Chevrolet Traverse, you have a few options:
- Order a Traverse with the towing package pre-installed. This is the easiest and most seamless way to get the necessary towing equipment.
- Have the towing package installed by your Chevrolet dealer after purchasing the vehicle. They can add the hitch receiver, wiring harness, and other components.
- Install the towing package yourself using aftermarket parts and accessories. This requires more DIY effort but can be a cost-effective option.
Whichever route you choose, be sure to follow all manufacturer guidelines and safety recommendations when towing a trailer with your Traverse. Proper setup and usage of the towing package is essential for safe and legal towing.
Can you add a trailer tow package aftermarket?
Yes, you can add a tow package to a vehicle after purchase, but the cost and complexity depend on what parts you are adding. While adding a simple aftermarket hitch is common and relatively easy, a full factory-style tow package that includes a larger radiator, heavy-duty suspension, and integrated wiring can be expensive and require professional installation, as some components may need significant labor to install.
Aftermarket options
- Hitch: The most common and straightforward upgrade is to add an aftermarket tow hitch, which is available from many retailers.
- Wiring harness: You can also add an aftermarket wiring harness, though it may differ from the factory-installed version and might require more complex installation.
- Other accessories: Other accessories, such as a trailer brake controller or a transmission cooler, can be purchased and installed separately to increase towing capacity.
Full "tow package"
- What it includes: A full factory tow package often includes more than just a hitch, such as a larger radiator, upgraded suspension, and specific electrical components.
- Cost and complexity: Adding all these components after the fact can be expensive, potentially costing thousands of dollars in parts and labor, as it may involve significant modifications.
- Recommendation: If you plan to do significant or heavy towing, it is often more cost-effective and practical to trade in your vehicle for one that came with the tow package from the factory.
Things to consider
- Payload: Be mindful of your vehicle's payload rating, which is the maximum weight it can carry. Installing an aftermarket hitch will use up some of this capacity.
- Installation: Adding a simple hitch can be a DIY project for those with the right tools, but a full tow package will likely require professional installation.
- Towing needs: Assess your towing needs to determine if a simple aftermarket hitch is sufficient or if you truly need the heavy-duty components included in a full tow package.
What is the towing package for the Chevy Traverse?
2025 Chevy Traverse Towing Capacity Summary
The Chevrolet Traverse tow capacity is 5,000 pounds with the standard Trailering Package equipped. Well-equipped Chevy Traverse models have hitch guidance and view, as well as a specialized cover to optimize your towing experience.
Can you add a trailering package to Traverse?
However, you can enhance your trailering experience by adding the Max Trailering Package to your build. We recommend this upgrade if you want to have all the proper towing equipment as soon as you take the keys. Take a look at what's included in the Max Trailering Package: Hitch Guidance with Hitch View.
How much does it cost to add a tow package?
Adding a tow package can cost anywhere from $150 to over $2,000, depending on the complexity, the type of hitch, and parts versus labor. A simple hitch and wiring kit can range from about $150 to $500, while a full-service installation or more complex, heavy-duty hitches can cost upwards of $1,000-$2,000, particularly with professional labor costs.
Cost breakdown by hitch type
- Class 1 hitch: $150 to $250
- Class 2 hitch: $200 to $350
- Class 3 hitch: $300 to $500
- Class 4 hitch: $500 to $800
- Fifth wheel hitch: $1,000 to $2,000
Factors that influence the final cost
- Parts: The cost of the hitch itself, which depends on the class and brand.
- Labor: Installation costs can vary significantly based on the vehicle's make and model. Some vehicles require more complex installations that may involve removing bumpers or body panels, which increases labor time.
- Wiring: Wiring for the lights adds to the cost. A basic 4-pin setup is cheaper than a 7-pin connector with a brake controller, which can add a few hundred dollars to the parts and labor.
- Vehicle complexity: Some vehicles have specific mounting points, while others may require modifications to the bumper or chassis, making professional installation more expensive.
- DIY vs. professional installation: Installing it yourself can save hundreds of dollars in labor costs. However, professional installation ensures proper fit and can include a warranty.
