Does a Dodge Durango have a hitch?
Yes. The Durango can tow trailers, and most trims can be fitted with a factory 2-inch Class III hitch through the Trailer Tow Package. Availability depends on model year and configuration.
Tow hitch availability and how it’s installed
The hitch itself is typically a 2-inch Class III receiver. Many Durango trims offer this as part of the Trailer Tow Package, which also unlocks the electrical connections and related towing hardware. If you don’t see a hitch on a base model, you’ll often find it included or added as an option when you choose the Tow Package or a higher trim.
What to expect in an average Durango towing setup:
- 2-inch Class III hitch receiver (for standard towing)
- 7-pin wiring harness to power trailer lights and electric brakes
- Potential trailer brake controller (depends on trim and year)
- Possibly additional cooling for engine and transmission as part of the Tow Package
Concluding: If you plan to tow, check whether the vehicle has the Tow Package and the corresponding hitch and wiring prepped for towing.
Towing capacity by engine and equipment
Durango towing capacity is engine- and configuration-dependent. With the right package, the range typically covers mid-size trailers from light to heavy loads:
- 3.6L V6 (Pentastar) with Tow Package: up to about 6,200 pounds
- 5.7L Hemi with Tow Package: up to about 7,400 pounds
- 6.4L Hemi with Tow Package (in appropriate trims): up to about 8,700 pounds
Note: These are maximums and assume the Tow Package, appropriate axle ratio, and trailer braking where required. Always confirm your specific model’s rating from the owner’s manual and door jamb sticker.
Summary
The Dodge Durango is designed to tow, and the hitch can be present or added via the Trailer Tow Package. The typical setup includes a 2-inch Class III hitch and a 7-pin wiring harness, with towing capacity scaling from roughly 6,200 pounds on the V6 to about 8,700 pounds on the high-end V8 configurations—subject to proper equipment and verification on your exact vehicle.
How do I know if I have a factory tow package?
If you don't see a trailer hitch or receiver on your rear bumper, that is a good sign you don't have a towing package.
Can you pull a trailer with a Dodge Durango?
Yes, a Dodge Durango can tow a trailer, and it's capable of handling a wide range of towing duties. Its towing capacity varies significantly by engine, with the V6 engine typically towing up to 6,200 pounds, while the V8 and supercharged V8 models can tow up to 8,700 pounds when properly equipped with the Tow N Go package.
This video demonstrates how the Durango's V6 engine handles towing: 59sThe Fast Lane TruckYouTube · Apr 30, 2019
Towing capacity by engine
- 3.6L Pentastar® V6: Up to 6,200 pounds
- 5.7L HEMI® V8: Up to 8,700 pounds (with Tow N Go package)
- 6.4L HEMI® V8: Up to 8,700 pounds
- Supercharged 6.2L HEMI® V8 (SRT Hellcat): Up to 8,700 pounds
What to know for maximum capacity
- Tow N Go package: To achieve the 8,700-pound maximum, you must have the factory-installed Tow N Go package.
- Trailer brake controller: The Durango has an integrated trailer brake controller for better control and braking performance.
- Towing features: The Tow N Go package includes features like a Class IV trailer hitch, active dampening suspension, and trailer sway control to improve stability.
- All-wheel drive (AWD): AWD is recommended for better traction, especially in challenging conditions like snow or rain.
You can watch this video to see how the 5.7L V8 engine performs while towing: 1mSauer HorsepowerYouTube · Sep 21, 2020
Types of trailers
The Durango can tow various types of trailers, including:
- Campers (travel trailers, pop-ups, hybrids)
- Horse trailers
- Boats
- ATV trailers
- Other general trailers and recreational toys
Does a tow package include a hitch?
A tow package often includes a hitch along with other enhancements like cooling, brakes, and suspension, while a hitch alone is just the attachment point for the trailer.
What year to stay away from Dodge Durango?
Years to avoid for the Dodge Durango include the earliest models like 1999-2000, 2004-2005, and 2011-2012, and 2014, due to frequent reports of engine, transmission, electrical, and suspension issues. The 1999 model year is frequently cited as one of the worst due to a high number of complaints, including engine and suspension problems. Early third-generation models like 2011 and 2012 are known for electrical and transmission issues, while the 2014 model year had problems with water intrusion in the tail lights and faulty airbags.
First generation (1998-2003)
- 1999-2000: Prone to engine and suspension problems, as well as electrical and transmission failures. The 1999 model has a particularly high number of owner complaints.
- 2001-2003: Transmission issues and electrical problems are common.
Second generation (2004-2009)
- 2004-2005: These model years frequently experienced powertrain and suspension issues. The 2005 model also had several recalls.
- 2006-2009: While generally better, some owners reported issues with the engine and suspension.
Third generation (2011-2020)
- 2011-2012: These years are plagued with electrical problems, particularly the TIMP (Transmission Integrated Power Module), and braking issues.
- 2014: Issues included water leaking into the tail lights and airbags that could deploy unexpectedly.
Fourth generation (2021-Present)
- 2021-2025: Some owners have reported recurring issues, and in some cases, the vehicles may qualify as a "lemon" under state laws if the problems persist.
