Can you tow with a Chevy Blazer?
Yes — you can tow with a Chevy Blazer, but the amount you can pull depends on the engine and equipment, with a maximum around 4,500 pounds when properly equipped with the Trailering Package and the 3.6L V6.
Tow ratings by engine
The Blazer offers two engine options, and your towing ability follows the engine choice and whether the optional Trailering Package is installed. Published figures can vary by drivetrain and trim.
- 3.6L V6: Up to 4,500 pounds (2,041 kg) with the Trailering Package; usable with both front- and all-wheel drive configurations depending on the exact spec.
- 2.0L Turbo: Up to about 3,500 pounds (1,588 kg) when equipped with the Trailering Package; actual rating varies by drivetrain and configuration.
For precise ratings, consult the window sticker or the owner's manual for your exact Blazer model, as options and trim levels can change the official figure.
What else affects towing capacity
Beyond engine choice, several other factors determine how much you can safely tow with a Blazer. These include the available Trailering Package, the hitch and wiring, payload capacity, and the vehicle’s gross combined weight rating.
- Trailering Package and accessories: Enables features and hardware that support higher tow ratings; some configurations may require this package to access the max rating.
- Hitch class and receiver: The Blazer commonly uses a 2-inch receiver; ensure the hitch rating matches the trailer's weight and tongue weight.
- Payload and tongue weight: Tongue weight is typically about 10-15% of the trailer’s gross weight; your vehicle’s payload must cover this while towing.
- Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): The maximum allowable weight of the vehicle plus the trailer; exceeding this can affect braking, steering, and safety.
- Braking and trailer brakes: For heavier trailers, a trailer brake controller may be required or strongly recommended depending on local laws and the trailer’s weight.
Always verify your exact configuration, as the absence or presence of features (like an integrated brake controller) can influence the overall rating.
Tow safely with a Blazer
When towing with any midsize SUV, follow best practices to maintain control and reduce risk on the road.
- Perform pre-tow inspections: check tires, lights, hitch, and weight distribution; ensure tires are in good condition and inflated to the recommended pressures.
- Balance the load: aim for proper weight distribution with a tongue weight typically around 10-15% of the trailer’s gross weight; ensure the payload limit isn’t exceeded.
- Brake controller usage: If your trailer has electric brakes, ensure the controller is installed and programmed (some Blazer configurations offer this feature).
- Drive conservatively: allow extra stopping distance, use lower gears on grades, and compensate for wind and sway effects.
- Follow local regulations: ensure your trailer meets lighting, braking, and safety requirements in your area.
With the right equipment and careful load management, the Blazer can handle appropriately sized towing tasks like small campers, boats, or utility trailers, but it isn’t designed for heavy-duty, high-weight towing.
What you need to tow legally and safely
To tow legally and safely with a Blazer, gather and verify the following components before hitting the road.
- Trailer hitch and wiring harness rated for your trailer’s weight.
- Appropriate payload capacity to cover tongue weight and cargo for both the Blazer and trailer.
- Integrated or aftermarket trailer brake controller if required by the trailer’s braking system or local regulations.
- Proper lighting, safety chains, and electrical connections for trailer safety.
- Documentation: license, insurance, and any required permits for towing a trailer in your jurisdiction.
With the right equipment and load planning, the Blazer supports a range of towing tasks that suit everyday needs, while staying within its published limits.
Alternatives for heavier towing
If you anticipate towing frequently near or beyond the Blazer’s upper limits, consider alternatives that offer higher towing capacities and stronger highway stability.
- Full-size SUVs or pickups: Models such as the Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban or Silverado offer substantially higher tow ratings (often well over 7,000 pounds, depending on configuration).
- Other mid-size or larger SUVs with higher tow ratings: Some competitors provide stronger tow packages and higher max ratings than the Blazer.
Before making a decision, compare official ratings, recommended equipment, and the typical loads you plan to tow to ensure the vehicle you choose matches your needs.
Summary
The Chevy Blazer can tow, with a maximum of up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped with the 3.6L V6 and Trailering Package. The engine choice, available equipment, payload, and braking setup all influence the actual towing limit. Always verify your specific model’s rating via the owner’s manual or window sticker, prepare the correct hitch and safety gear, and follow safe towing practices. If heavy towing is a regular requirement, consider a vehicle with a higher towing capacity.
