Do Chevy Equinox come with a tow package?
Yes — the Chevy Equinox can be equipped with a factory tow package that enables trailer towing, but availability depends on model year, trim level, and engine. With the 2.0-liter turbo engine and the Trailering Package, the SUV can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
To decide if a given Equinox has towing capability, you need to know the powertrain and whether the specific trailer equipment was installed. This article explains what the tow package is, which engines support towing, and how to verify capabilities before you buy or tow.
Tow package availability by year and engine
Below is a snapshot of how towing capability typically maps to powertrain options, noting that exact specs can vary by model year and trim. Always verify with the dealer or the window sticker for your specific vehicle.
- 1.5-liter turbocharged engine: typically supports towing up to about 1,500 pounds when equipped with the Trailering Package.
- 2.0-liter turbocharged engine: commonly rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds with the Trailering Package.
- Diesel 1.6-liter engine: often listed for up to about 3,500 pounds with proper equipment, depending on year and trim.
Note: Some model years and trims require the Trailering Package to achieve higher towing limits; without it, the rating is usually much lower or not recommended for towing.
Concluding summary: The ability to tow and the exact limit depend on engine choice and the presence of the factory Trailering Package; always check the manual and the exact vehicle specs.
What the Trailering Package typically includes
The Trailering Package is a factory option that equips the Equinox with components designed for towing. The specifics can vary by year and trim, but it generally covers the essential hardware and some supporting systems needed to tow safely.
- Hitch receiver and trailer wiring harness to connect your trailer's lights and brakes.
- Tow-specific equipment that supports pulling weight (often paired with enhanced engine/transmission cooling or tow-mode software in some years).
- Documentation in the build sheet/window sticker confirming trailer capability and maximum rating.
Concluding summary: If you plan to tow, confirm that the vehicle has the Trailering Package and that the powertrain is rated for your intended load. For used models, request the window sticker or a build sheet to verify.
Practical tips for towing with an Equinox
Before you tow, ensure you have the correct equipment and load distribution, and follow GM's towing guidelines. A few practical steps can reduce risk and improve safety on the road.
- Confirm the vehicle’s maximum towing capacity in the owner's manual and on the window sticker before hitching a trailer.
- Use the appropriate hitch, wiring, and brake controller as required.
- Distribute weight properly and avoid exceeding gross combined weight rating (GCWR).
Concluding summary: With the right setup, the Equinox is capable of towing mid-sized trailers within its rated limit. Always verify your exact configuration before towing.
Summary
The Chevy Equinox can be equipped with a factory tow package that enables trailer towing, but availability and the maximum weight rating depend on the model year, trim, and powertrain. The most common high-capacity option is up to 3,500 pounds with the 2.0-liter turbo engine and the Trailering Package. Check your vehicle’s window sticker or owner's manual, and when shopping, verify that the exact model includes the Trailering Package if you plan to tow.
How do I know if I have a factory tow package?
How do I know if I have a tow package? If your vehicle doesn't have a trailer hitch or receiver on the rear bumper, it's a strong indication that it doesn't have a towing package.
Does the Chevy Equinox have a tow package?
Yes, the Chevy Equinox can be equipped with a tow package that includes a hitch, wiring, and enhanced cooling systems to achieve its maximum towing capacity of up to 1,500 pounds. For older models with a specific engine option, the towing capacity could be higher, up to 3,500 pounds with the 2.0-liter or 3.6-liter engine.
Towing package details
- Includes: A Class II hitch, trailer wiring harness adapters, and enhanced cooling systems.
- Purpose: The package is designed to provide the necessary equipment for safe and efficient towing up to the vehicle's capacity.
Towing capacity
- Most recent models (2019-2023): Can tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped with the towing package.
- Older models (2018-2021): With the available 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and the towing package, the capacity can be up to 3,500 pounds.
- Before 2018: With the available 3.6-liter V-6 engine and towing package, the capacity could also reach 3,500 pounds.
Important considerations
- Check your model: The towing capacity varies depending on the model year, engine, and whether you have the towing package installed.
- Safety first: Always consult the vehicle's owner's manual before towing to ensure you do not exceed the weight limits. The weight of passengers, cargo, and accessories can affect how much you can tow.
How much does it cost to put a trailer hitch on an Equinox?
In total, the cost for both a hitch and professional installation on a Chevrolet Equinox can range from $250 to $800 or more, depending on the specific components you choose.
Which Chevy Equinox can tow 3500 pounds?
A Chevy Equinox can tow 3,500 pounds if it has the available 2.0L turbocharged engine and is equipped with the towing package. Older models, such as those from 2010-2017, could also tow 3,500 pounds with a 3.6L V6 engine.
Equinox models that can tow 3,500 pounds
- 2018-2021 Equinox: Equipped with the optional 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and the towing package.
- Older models: Equinox models from 2010-2017 equipped with the 3.6L V6 engine could achieve this towing capacity.
What you need for 3,500-pound towing
- Engine: You must have the more powerful 2.0L turbocharged engine (on recent models) or the 3.6L V6 (on older models).
- Towing package: The vehicle must have the optional towing package, which includes a tow hitch and electrical harness.
