How much can a Chevy Traverse a 3.6 L V-6 tow?
The Chevrolet Traverse with the 3.6-liter V-6 can tow up to about 5,000 pounds when it’s equipped with the Trailering Package; without that package, towing capacity drops significantly, typically to around 1,000–1,500 pounds.
Tow ratings basics
Understanding the Traverse’s towing capability requires knowing that the number depends on factory equipment, drivetrain, and load calculations. The official maximum is published for properly equipped vehicles, and exceeding that limit can compromise handling, braking, and safety. Always verify the exact rating for your specific model year, trim, and optional equipment.
What unlocks the 5,000-pound rating
To reach the 5,000-pound figure, the Traverse generally must be equipped with the Trailering Package. This package typically includes upgraded cooling systems, a compatible hitch (2-inch receiver) with the appropriate electrical connectors (4- and 7-pin wiring), and trailer-safety features such as trailer sway control. In some markets, an integrated trailer brake controller may be offered, but availability varies by year and region. Always confirm the exact contents on your vehicle’s window sticker and in the owner’s manual.
Key components and features that support the higher capacity include the vehicle’s cooling system designed for towing, a hitch that can handle heavier loads, and proper trailer wiring to ensure braking and lighting function correctly.
- Upgraded cooling system to handle extended towing heat
- Tow hitch with a 2-inch receiver and appropriate wiring (4- and 7-pin connectors)
- Trailer sway control and related safety features where available
- Weight and balance considerations that align with the GVWR/GCWR limits
With these components, the 5,000-pound rating is achievable under specified conditions. Always verify the exact specification for your vehicle and obey all safety guidelines when towing.
Practical guidelines for towing with the Traverse
When planning to tow, use conservative estimates and follow best practices to maintain safe operation on the road.
- Stay within the published towing limit for your exact vehicle configuration (engine, drivetrain, and Trailering Package).
- Respect the trailer’s braking: use a trailer with its own brakes if the weight approaches the upper end of the rating.
- Keep tongue weight within recommended ranges (usually about 10–15% of the trailer’s gross weight).
- Ensure ballast and payload within the vehicle’s GVWR and that the combined gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and gross combined weight rating (GCWR) are not exceeded.
In short, plan carefully, verify the specific VIN and window sticker, and conduct a dry run or test tow with the trailer in a safe area before hitting the highway.
How to verify your Traverse’s tow capacity
Always cross-check with official sources and your vehicle’s documentation before towing anything near the limit.
- Check the owner’s manual and the Vehicle Certification Label on the driver’s door jamb for the exact tow rating.
- Review the window sticker for your exact trim and any installed Trailering Package options.
- Consult your dealership or GM’s official towing guides for model-year-specific figures and recommendations.
If you plan to tow regularly or haul heavy trailers, speak with a dealer to confirm the right configuration for your VIN and to ensure warranty coverage remains intact while towing.
Summary
For a Chevy Traverse powered by the 3.6L V-6, the maximum tow capacity is up to 5,000 pounds when the Trailering Package is installed and the load stays within the car’s GVWR and GCWR limits. Without the package, expect substantially lower capability. Always verify the precise rating for your year, trim, and equipment, follow safe towing practices, and consult the owner’s manual and dealer if you have any towing plans beyond everyday tasks.
How much can a 3.6 L V6 engine tow?
The towing capacity for a 3.6L V6 engine varies significantly by vehicle, ranging from about 3,500 lbs for a Jeep Wrangler to over 8,110 lbs for a Ram 1500 with eTorque. Other models, like the Ram ProMaster, fall in between with a capacity of around 7,130 lbs. Always check the specific vehicle's owner's manual or door jamb sticker for its exact maximum towing capacity, as it depends on the vehicle's configuration and options.
This video shows the performance of a Ram 1500 V6 towing a 7200 lbs trailer: 59sVITAL ExplorerYouTube · Aug 18, 2021
- Jeep Wrangler: ~3,500 lbs (for two-door models)
- Jeep Gladiator: 4,000 to 7,700 lbs, depending on the Max Tow package
- Ram 1500 (with eTorque): Up to 8,110 lbs
- Ram ProMaster (2025): Up to 7,130 lbs
- Ram ProMaster (2023): Up to 6,910 lbs
This video demonstrates the towing capability of a Ram 1500 V6 with an 8000 lbs trailer: 58sGetty's GarageYouTube · Sep 17, 2023
This video shows the towing experience with a Jeep Gladiator and a travel trailer: 57sProdigal OverlandYouTube · Jul 6, 2022
What is the 80% towing rule?
Many RVers are strict followers of the 80% or 80/20 rule of towing, and it's a great rule to live by if you want to ensure you don't overload your tow vehicle. The 80% towing rule is less of a “rule” and more of an idea: don't pull a trailer with a GVWR that is more than 80% of your vehicle's maximum towing capacity.
How much can a Traverse 3.6 V-6 tow?
5,000 pounds
Across the board, a 3.6L V6 engine is standard. Front-wheel drive is the standard drivetrain, while all-wheel drive is available. While the maximum Chevrolet Traverse towing capacity is 5,000 pounds, some trim levels offer a lower 1,500-pound capacity.
Which Traverse can tow 5000 lbs?
2025 Chevrolet Traverse
Towing Capacity With The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse
The versatile midsize SUV has an impressive towing capability that makes it popular with drivers who want a competent daily driver and a powerful weekend workhorse. Regardless of the trim and drivetrain, all 2025 Chevrolet Traverse models can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
