How much does it cost to add a tow package?
Generally, adding a tow package costs between a few hundred and a few thousand dollars, depending on whether you choose a factory tow package or aftermarket components, and on the vehicle model.
Tow packages can be added as a factory option when buying a new vehicle, as a dealer-installed package, or as aftermarket parts and installation. The total price depends on what’s included, the vehicle’s towing capacity, and labor costs. The following guide breaks down typical price ranges and the factors that influence them, so you can plan accordingly.
What a tow package typically includes
Tow packages—whether factory-installed or aftermarket—bring together hardware and software to enable and optimize trailer towing. The exact components vary by vehicle and option level, but common inclusions are listed below.
- Hitch receiver and mounting hardware (class I–IV for lighter loads; higher classes for heavier trailers)
- Wiring harness for trailer lights (4-pin or 7-pin connectors, plus any necessary adapters)
- Trailer brake controller (for trailers with electric brakes)
- Cooling upgrades such as a transmission cooler and, in some cases, an engine oil cooler
- Optional upgraded cooling system or radiator on certain models
- Suspension or underpinnings upgrades for better handling when towing
- Tow/haul mode calibration and related software updates on select trims
These components form the backbone of a tow package, but the exact lineup depends on the vehicle and the package level. Always verify what’s included when you shop.
Cost ranges by path
Prices vary depending on how you add tow capability: factory-installed, dealer-installed, or aftermarket. The ranges below reflect common scenarios for 2024–2025 model-year vehicles and can vary by region, trim, and vehicle type.
Factory tow package
Factory tow packages are typically bundled with the vehicle during new-car purchase or as a factory add-on. They tend to include most required components in a single price, with installation handled by the manufacturer or dealer.
- Typical price range: roughly $500 to $2,000 for light-duty models; higher-end or premium packages can reach $2,500–$4,000 on some trucks and SUVs.
- What you often get: integrated tow hardware, enhanced cooling, upgraded wiring, and software adjustments designed to work seamlessly with your vehicle’s systems.
- Warranty considerations: generally built to preserve or align with the vehicle’s warranty terms since it’s OEM equipment.
Factory tow packages simplify ordering and may offer better long-term resale value, but the up-front cost can be higher than adding components aftermarket.
Dealer-installed or bundled options
Dealerships may offer tow-related options as add-ons at the time of purchase or afterward as a bundled package. Prices reflect both parts and labor.
- Typical price range: about $400 to $2,000, depending on included components and vehicle model.
- What you might see: hitch, wiring harness, brake controller, and sometimes cooling upgrades, installed by the dealer as a single quote.
- Warranty considerations: parts may be covered under dealer or third-party warranties; confirm coverage and duration before purchase.
Dealer-installed options can offer convenient installation and cleaner integration with your vehicle, but always obtain a detailed quote that lists parts and labor separately.
Aftermarket components and installation
If you’re adding towing capability after purchase or choosing to outfit a vehicle without a factory tow option, aftermarket parts are common. Prices vary widely by brand, quality, and labor.
- Hitch kit (Class I–IV): typically $100 to $350
- Wiring harness (4-pin or 7-pin): $50 to $300
- Trailer brake controller: $60 to $300 (plus potential professional installation)
- Labor for installation: roughly $150 to $600, depending on complexity and local rates
- Total typical range for a basic aftermarket setup: about $250 to $1,500; high-end or heavy-duty configurations can exceed this
Aftermarket options give you flexibility and potentially lower upfront costs, but installation quality and compatibility with your vehicle are crucial. Check compatibility with towing capacity, electrical systems, and any warranty implications.
How to choose and shop for a tow package
Consider your towing needs, frequency, and the weight you plan to haul. Compare factory vs. dealer-installed vs. aftermarket options, and get written quotes that itemize parts, labor, and any added services. Don’t forget to verify payload capacity, hitch class, and whether a brake controller is required for your trailer.
Summary
Adding a tow package typically costs a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the path you choose and the vehicle. Factory tow packages tend to be comprehensive and seamlessly integrated but can be pricier, while dealer-installed and aftermarket options offer flexibility and potential savings with variable labor. Always verify what’s included, ensure compatibility with your vehicle’s towing capacity, and obtain formal quotes before making a decision. With careful planning, you can outfit your vehicle for towing while protecting your budget and warranty.
Can you add a tow package to an existing vehicle?
Can I add a tow package to my vehicle? While a factory tow package is installed by the manufacturer, you can add aftermarket accessories like a custom-fit hitch, wiring harness, brake controller, and more to help your vehicle handle various towing loads.
Can a tow package be added aftermarket?
Yes, you can add a tow package aftermarket, but you'll need to install the components separately, such as a hitch, wiring harness, and potentially a transmission cooler. While aftermarket parts are available for nearly any vehicle, some modern vehicles may require a dealer to program the vehicle's computer after the installation, and aftermarket kits may lack the same software integration or features as the original factory-installed option.
Aftermarket vs. factory tow package
| Feature | Aftermarket | Factory |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Often cheaper | More expensive |
| Installation | DIY or independent shops are options for some components | Done by the manufacturer or dealer |
| Components | Individual parts can be purchased and installed separately | Components are designed to work together seamlessly with the vehicle's systems |
| Features | May have fewer features than factory-installed options, like automatic trailer mode | Has features like integrated software and wiring |
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Components to consider adding
- Trailer hitch: Choose a hitch that fits your vehicle's make and model, and be sure it's rated for your towing capacity.
- Wiring harness: A plug-and-play harness is often the easiest option. Some systems may require a dealer to program the vehicle's computer after installation.
- Transmission cooler: This can help prevent the transmission from overheating when towing heavy loads.
- Brake controller: If your trailer has its own brakes, you'll need an electric brake controller to activate them.
How hard is it to install a tow package?
Installing a trailer hitch is a relatively easy automotive job. A typical tow hitch installation may involve some of the following steps: removing the spare tire, lowering the exhaust, removing existing vehicle hardware, lifting the hitch into position and torqueing the hitch hardware to the correct values.
How much does it cost to put a tow package on a vehicle?
To get this extra capacity, a hitch needs to be bolted to your frame that allows a trailer to be connected to your vehicle. What does trailer hitch installation cost? There's a large range in price from around $250 to $1,300 or more. Naturally, it varies depending on the vehicle and the type and class of hitch.
