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How much can a 2015 Toyota Tundra 5.7 tow?

The 2015 Toyota Tundra with the 5.7-liter V8 can tow up to about 10,000 pounds when properly equipped, though the exact rating depends on your specific configuration and options.


In practice, the towing capacity for this truck varies with factors such as cab and bed configuration, drivetrain (2WD vs 4WD), and whether the factory Tow Package is installed. To know your exact limit, check the vehicle’s door jamb placard and owner’s manual for the precise rating.


Official capacity and what can change it


Several elements determine the maximum towing figure for a given 2015 Tundra with the 5.7L engine. Awareness of these factors helps set realistic expectations and ensures safe towing:



  • Tow Package availability, which typically includes cooling upgrades and hitch/ wiring enhancements

  • Drivetrain: two-wheel drive (2WD) versus four-wheel drive (4WD)

  • Cab/bed configuration (Regular Cab, Double Cab, or CrewMax) and corresponding weight with passengers and cargo

  • Rear axle ratio and overall vehicle weight, which affect how much weight can be safely pulled

  • Hitch, braking system, and trailer setup (including trailer brakes and tongue weight)


Because these factors interact, the door jamb label on your specific Tundra is the authoritative source for your maximum towing capacity.


Towing by configuration: what to expect


There isn’t a single universal number for every 2015 Tundra 5.7, because capacity shifts with the exact build. In broad terms, most configurations close to the upper limit of the truck’s rating approach the 10,000-pound mark when equipped with the Tow Package and appropriate drivetrain. Some configurations, particularly certain 4x4 setups or without the Tow Package, will have a lower rating. Always rely on the official rating shown on your vehicle’s placard and in the owner’s manual.


Practical towing tips for the 2015 Tundra


Before you hitch up, keep these best practices in mind to tow safely and within the truck’s limits:



  1. Verify the exact towing capacity for your vehicle using the door jamb sticker and owner’s manual.

  2. Use the factory Tow Package if your goal is maximum safe towing; ensure all cooling and hitch components are properly installed.

  3. Balance the load with proper tongue weight (approximately 10–15% of the trailer’s gross weight) to maintain stability.

  4. Install and test trailer brakes if your trailer requires them, and ensure proper wiring for lights and signals.

  5. Drive conservatively: allow extra stopping distance, avoid aggressive acceleration, and plan for longer turning radii and sway control if needed.


Following these guidelines helps maximize safety and helps you stay within the vehicle’s rated towing capacity.


How to verify the exact rating for your truck


To confirm the precise towing limit for your 2015 Tundra, use these steps:



  1. Check the driver’s door placard for the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and maximum towing capacity.

  2. Consult the owner’s manual for details on the Tow Package and any region-specific specifications.

  3. If in doubt, contact a Toyota dealer with your VIN to obtain the exact rating for your build.


Having an exact number ensures you tow within safe limits and avoids overloading the vehicle.


Summary


In short, a 2015 Toyota Tundra with the 5.7L V8 can tow roughly up to 10,000 pounds when properly equipped, but the true maximum depends on configuration and options. For accurate guidance, always refer to the vehicle’s door sticker, owner’s manual, and, if needed, your local Toyota dealer. With the right equipment and careful planning, the Tundra’s towing capability can cover a wide range of mid-size trailers and applications.

How much can a 2015 Tundra 5.7 tow?


10,300 lbs.
Dimensions

Wheelbase145.7 in.
Curb weight5,165 lbs.
Maximum towing capacity10,300 lbs.
Maximum payload1,735 lbs.
Gross weight7,000 lbs.



Is the 5.7 V8 Tundra a good engine?


Yes, the Toyota Tundra 5.7L V8 is generally considered a good and reliable engine, known for its power and longevity, especially with proper maintenance. However, it is not without common issues, most notably a potential problem with the Secondary Air Injection System (SAIS) in earlier models and water pump failure around 100,000 miles. 
This video discusses the reliability of the Toyota Tundra 5.7L V8 engine: 56s8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Nov 21, 2024
Pros of the 5.7L V8 engine

  • Power and capability: The 5.7L engine offers strong performance, with high horsepower and torque, making it well-suited for towing and hauling. 
  • Longevity: Many owners report high mileage and longevity, with some exceeding 300,000 miles and others reaching over 500,000 with proper care. 
  • Reliability: It's a durable engine with a reputation for being dependable over the long term. 
  • Timing chain: Unlike some older Toyota engines, the 5.7L uses a timing chain, which is designed to last the life of the engine and avoids the need for costly timing belt replacements. 
  • Available tow package: Models equipped with the tow package come with transmission and engine oil coolers for enhanced durability when towing. 

Common issues and cons
  • Secondary Air Injection (SAIS) failure: The SAIS can fail, especially in earlier models. This is often an expensive repair, but many owners opt for a bypass kit to avoid the issue from reoccurring, according to this Canadian Gearhead article and Reddit users. 
  • Water pump failure: The water pump can fail around 100,000 miles due to bearing failure. However, the design intentionally includes a weep hole, so you'll likely see coolant leaks before a total failure occurs. 
  • Early model issues: Some early versions of the engine, around 2007, may have had additional issues such as problems with cam gear vvti actuators, timing chain tensioners, and cam tower oil leaks. However, later model years and updated pumps helped address some of these moisture-related problems. 

This video shows the engine bay of a Toyota Tundra TRD Pro: 46sTheTopherYouTube · May 16, 2025



How much can a Toyota Tundra 5.7 liter V8 tow?


The towing capacity for a Toyota Tundra with a 5.7L V8 engine is up to 10,200 pounds when properly equipped, though the exact capacity can vary based on the model year, trim, drivetrain (4x2 or 4x4), and cab/bed configuration. The 5.7L engine provides 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque, making it capable of towing boats, campers, and trailers.
 
This video demonstrates a Toyota Tundra towing an Airstream trailer: 58sKEdRevsYouTube · Dec 16, 2023
Factors that affect towing capacity

  • Model Year: Newer models (2021-2022) can have higher towing capacities of up to 12,000 pounds, while earlier models may have slightly lower capacities. 
  • Trim Level: Different trim levels have different towing capacities. For example, the Platinum trim may have a lower capacity than a standard SR5 trim. 
  • Drivetrain: 4x2 models generally have a higher towing capacity than 4x4 models due to being lighter. 
  • Configuration: The cab and bed configuration (e.g., Double Cab vs. CrewMax) can also impact towing capacity. 
  • Equipment: The presence of a heavy-duty tow package, which includes engine and transmission coolers, a trailer brake controller, and a heavy-duty battery and alternator, is essential for achieving maximum towing capacity. 

What can a Tundra with a 5.7L engine tow?
  • A-Frame campers
  • Small travel trailers
  • Motorcycle and jet ski trailers
  • Fishing boat trailers
  • Large boat trailers
  • Pop-up campers
  • Small horse trailers 

You can watch this video to learn more about the towing experience with a Toyota Tundra: 1mThe Fast Lane TruckYouTube · Jul 15, 2025



How much horsepower does a 2015 Toyota Tundra 5.7 have?


The 2015 Toyota Tundra with the 5.7L V8 engine has 381 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 401 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. This engine is part of the "i-Force" V8 lineup and comes standard on higher trim levels or is available as an option on others.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the engine performance of the 2015 Toyota Tundra: 1mThe Fast Lane TruckYouTube · Jul 14, 2014

  • Horsepower: 381 hp @ 5,600 rpm 
  • Torque: 401 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm 
  • Engine type: 5.7-liter "i-Force" V8, which can be gasoline or Flex Fuel 
  • Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission 
  • Availability: Standard on higher trims like the Limited, Platinum, 1794, and TRD Pro, and available as an option on other models. 

This video provides a detailed review of the 2015 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro: 49sEngineering ExplainedYouTube · May 29, 2015


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.