How much does it cost to put a tow package on your car?
Most drivers pay roughly $500 to $2,000 for a basic aftermarket tow package installed, while factory tow packages added by the manufacturer typically run around $500 to $2,500 in addition to the vehicle’s price; extreme-duty setups can push total costs higher.
What is a tow package and what might it include?
Tow packages are a collection of equipment and upgrades designed to improve a vehicle’s towing capability, stability, and safety. They can be offered by manufacturers as a factory option or assembled aftermarket by a shop. The exact components depend on the vehicle and the level of towing you plan to do.
- Trailer hitch receiver and mounting hardware (Class I–IV, depending on vehicle and capacity)
- Wiring harness for trailer lights and signals (4-pin or 7-pin connectors, sometimes multi-connector)
- Trailer brake controller (electronic device to modulate trailer brakes)
- Transmission cooler or upgraded cooling system to manage added heat
- Suspension reinforcement or upgrades to handle extra load
- Weight-distribution hitch or sway control for improved stability
- Electrical upgrades and fuses/buss bars to support trailer systems
The specific mix and whether it’s factory-installed or aftermarket will affect both price and compatibility with your vehicle.
Cost ranges for aftermarket versus factory tow packages
Prices vary by vehicle type, the level of towing, and whether you install components yourself or have a shop handle the work. The following ranges reflect common scenarios across consumer vehicles.
For aftermarket installations by a shop, the typical cost components break down as follows:
- Hitch receiver (basic Class III) and mounting hardware: $150–$350
- Wiring harness (4- or 7-pin): $25–$150 for parts, plus $50–$150 for labor
- Trailer brake controller: $50–$200 for parts, plus $50–$150 for labor
- Transmission cooler or other cooling upgrades: $60–$200
- Suspension or reinforcement upgrades (optional but common for heavier trailers): $300–$1,000
- Overall installed price (parts plus labor): typically $500–$2,000, depending on vehicle and complexity
In many cases, you’ll pay toward the lower end if you’re adding a simple hitch and basic wiring, and toward the higher end for multi-feature setups or vehicles with high towing ratings.
For factory tow packages added when buying a new or used vehicle, pricing is usually bundled into the MSRPs or listed as an option. Typical ranges are:
- Factory tow package (light- to moderate-towing capability): $500–$2,500 added to the vehicle price, depending on model and included features
- Examples of bundled features often included: upgraded hitch hardware, wiring harness, cooling enhancements, and, on some trims, a brake controller or suspension tweaks
- Heavy-duty or specialized tow packages (popular on trucks and SUVs built for towing): $1,000–$3,500 or more, depending on the exact components and vehicle
Prices can vary by brand, dealership, and regional labor rates. Some buyers choose to add aftermarket components later to tailor the setup to a specific trailer weight or usage pattern.
What affects the total you’ll pay
Several factors influence the final cost beyond the base price of each component:
- The vehicle’s towing capacity and OEM recommendations
- Whether the installation is done by the dealer, an independent shop, or DIY
- Weight of the trailer and required braking system (e.g., electric brakes on the trailer)
- Need for additional upgrades such as a heavy-duty radiator, exhaust cooling, or upgraded suspension
- Local labor rates and available promotions or package deals
Before committing, get written quotes that itemize parts and installation labor, and confirm warranty coverage on both the tow package and any aftermarket work.
Summary
There is a broad range for towing upgrades: basic aftermarket setups generally start around a few hundred dollars and can rise to the low thousands, while factory tow packages vary widely but commonly fall in the same broad range, with heavy-duty configurations costing more. The best approach is to assess your towing needs, check your vehicle’s OEM recommendations, and obtain multiple quotes that clearly outline parts and labor. This helps ensure you get the right level of capability without overpaying.
Practical next steps
If you’re considering a tow package, start by determining your trailer weight and towing requirements, verify what your vehicle’s manufacturer supports, and then compare dealer-installed options against reputable aftermarket solutions. Ask about warranty implications and whether the work affects insurance considerations.
