How much can a 2017 Cruze tow?

The 2017 Cruze does not have an official towing capacity published by Chevrolet, and there is no factory towing package offered for this model year.

In practical terms, this compact car is not equipped or rated by the manufacturer to tow trailers. Below is a detailed look at what this means, how to approach the topic safely, and what alternatives exist if towing is a recurring need.

Official stance on towing for the 2017 Cruze

Chevrolet’s official materials and the Cruze owner’s manual do not provide a trailer-towing specification for the 2017 model year, and there is no approved factory hitch towing package for this car. This absence generally signals that Chevrolet does not support trailer towing for the Cruze.

Takeaways from the official stance to consider before attempting any towing:

The following points summarize the manufacturer's position on towing with the 2017 Cruze.



• No published maximum trailer weight for the 2017 Cruze from Chevrolet.


• No factory towing package or hitch option is offered for this model year.


• Using the Cruze to tow could affect warranty coverage and is not endorsed by the manufacturer.

Conclusion: With no official tow rating and no approved towing equipment from Chevrolet, towing with a 2017 Cruze is not supported by the manufacturer. For any towing task, a different vehicle designed for towing is usually a safer choice.

Practical considerations if towing is contemplated

If you still plan to tow something light or rare, these considerations help gauge risk and safety, even though they do not override the lack of an official Cruze tow rating.

Before listing the steps, note that any towing attempt without a manufacturer-approved rating carries safety, warranty, and insurance implications.

The following steps outline prudent considerations for light-duty towing with any small car, recognizing the Cruze does not carry a published rating.



1. Confirm local laws and your insurance policy's stance on towing with a passenger car.


2. Avoid exceeding the vehicle’s GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) and any payload limitations by carefully accounting for passengers, cargo, and trailer weight. Since Chevrolet does not publish a trailer rating for the Cruze, this becomes an unofficial safety estimate rather than a guarantee.


3. Inspect the hitch, wiring, brakes, and trailer lights; ensure proper connection and functioning before towing.


4. Understand that aftermarket towing equipment may affect warranty coverage and may not be endorsed by Chevrolet.

Conclusion: Given the lack of an official Cruze tow rating, towing with a 2017 Cruze is not recommended by the manufacturer. If towing is a regular need, use a vehicle that is specifically rated for towing and consult the owner’s manual and dealership guidance.

Alternatives for towing needs

For those who require towing capability, consider these safer, long-term options that align with common vehicle-use scenarios for towing:

Options to consider when addressing towing needs without relying on the Cruze:



• Choose a vehicle with a published tow rating, such as a midsize SUV or pickup, for regular towing.


• Rent or borrow a tow-capable vehicle for occasional trailer moves instead of towing with the Cruze.


• Use non-towing solutions for light transport, like a hitch-mounted cargo carrier or roof rack, if appropriate for light loads.

Conclusion: For reliable towing capabilities, select a vehicle specifically designed and rated for towing rather than attempting to tow with a Cruze.

Summary

In summary, the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze does not come with an official towing capacity, and Chevrolet does not offer a factory towing package for this model year. Towing with the Cruze is not supported by the manufacturer, and safety and warranty considerations strongly discourage attempting to tow. For anyone needing to haul trailers, a purpose-built tow vehicle is the recommended option, with guidance from the owner's manual and a Chevrolet dealer.

Can a Chevy Cruze have a trailer hitch?

Class 1 Trailer Hitch, 1-1/4 Inch Square Receiver, Black, Compatible with Chevrolet Cruze. DRAW-TITE® Class 1 trailer hitches are the perfect mix of style and stability for those times when you're working on a home project or heading out on an adventure.

Can I pull a trailer with a Chevy Cruze?

Cruze is only rated to tow 1000 pounds. 1500lbs including you and your family in the car with your stuff may be a bit much for it.

What is the towing capacity of a 2017 Chevy?

The 2017 Chevy Silverado 1500 has a maximum towing capacity of up to 12,500 pounds when properly equipped with the 6.2L V8 engine and the Max Trailering Package. For the 2500HD and 3500HD models, the towing capacity goes up to 13,000-14,500 pounds for the 2500HD and a maximum of 23,300 pounds for the 3500HD. Lower engine options have lower capacities, with the 4.3L V6 topping out at 7,600 pounds and the 5.3L V8 at 11,100 pounds.
 
2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

• 4.3L EcoTec3 V6: Up to 7,600 pounds
• 5.3L EcoTec3 V8: Up to 11,100 pounds
• 6.2L EcoTec3 V8: Up to 12,500 pounds 

2017 Chevrolet Silverado HD (2500HD/3500HD)

• Silverado 2500HD: Up to 14,500 pounds
• Silverado 3500HD: Up to 23,300 pounds for fifth-wheel trailering and 20,000 pounds for conventional towing 

What year to stay away from Chevy Cruze?

The Chevy Cruze years to avoid are primarily 2011-2015, with particular issues noted for the 2013 and 2016 model years, due to common problems like transmission failure, coolant leaks, and engine issues. The 2016 model is also mentioned for engine problems, while the 2018 year is frequently cited for engine and electrical problems.
 
This video discusses the most common problems with the Chevy Cruze: 58sSteeveGMTECHYouTube · Jul 22, 2025
Years with most reported problems 

• 2011–2015: This first generation is widely cited as having the most issues, including transmission failure, coolant leaks, and engine problems like cracked pistons and faulty water pumps. 
• 2016: This year is specifically called out for engine issues, potentially related to the 1.4T engine. 
• 2018: Many owners have reported engine and electrical problems with this model year, along with a specific recall for transmission fluid leaks. 

Specific issues to look out for

• Engine: Common problems include cracked pistons, faulty water pumps, and coolant leaks, particularly on 1.4T engines. 
• Transmission: Harsh shifting and complete transmission failure are frequent complaints across several model years. 
• Cooling System: Leaks from plastic cooling components, especially around the 100,000-mile mark, can lead to overheating and engine damage. 
• Electrical: Electrical system failures, including issues with the ignition, lighting, and control modules, were common in several years. 

You can watch this video to learn about common Chevy Cruze problems and fixes: 59sAJS WoodworksYouTube · May 22, 2024
How to mitigate risks

• Check the vehicle history: Always get a vehicle history report and verify that all recall work has been completed. 
• Perform a pre-purchase inspection: Have a qualified mechanic inspect the vehicle before buying to identify any existing or potential problems. 
• Be aware of mileage: Many of the common failures, such as water pump failure, occur at higher mileage (around 100,000 miles).