What does the Lexus tow package include?
It generally adds a hitch, trailer wiring, and upgraded cooling and stability features; exact items vary by model and year.
To understand what your specific Lexus tow package contains, this article outlines common components, model-specific variations, and steps to verify the exact contents for your vehicle. It also discusses how towing capacity is determined and what to look for on official documentation.
Common components of the Lexus tow package
The items listed below are commonly bundled in Lexus tow packages across several models, providing essential hardware and electronics to support trailer towing.
- Class III or Class IV hitch receiver (typically 2-inch) mounted to the rear of the vehicle
- Tow wiring harness with trailer lights and braking signals (4-pin or 7-pin connector, depending on model)
- Trailer brake controller or pre-wiring for one (availability varies by model and year)
- Engine oil cooler to help manage under-load temperatures when towing
- Transmission cooler to maintain transmission temperatures during towing
- Upgraded or enhanced cooling package, which may include a heavy-duty radiator and/or cooling fans
- Trailer Sway Control (software-enabled stability features to reduce trailer sway)
- Tow prep wiring or pre-wired connections for brakes and trailer electricals (where applicable)
These components collectively support safe hooking up, power to the trailer, and braking with stability while protecting the engine and drivetrain during towing.
Model-specific variations
RX family (RX 350/450h and related)
In the RX lineup, the Tow Package commonly includes a hitch, wiring harness, engine oil cooler, transmission cooler, and Trailer Sway Control; it may also enable a higher towing rating when combined with the engine and drivetrain configuration. Exact specs depend on model year and trim level.
NX and smaller crossovers
For NX and related compact SUVs, the Tow Package generally adds the essential hitch and wiring and may include cooling upgrades and TSC where offered. The resulting towing capacity is typically lower than larger Lexus models, often around 2,000 pounds, and varies by year and market.
GX and larger SUVs
On larger SUVs such as the GX and LX, the Tow Package frequently supports higher towing ratings and includes robust cooling and braking-ready hardware, with capacities ranging into the range of several thousand pounds. Exact numbers depend on the model year and drivetrain configuration.
Because Lexus periodically revises packages, always verify the exact items on your vehicle’s build sheet or window sticker.
How to verify what's included in your Lexus tow package
Use these steps to confirm the precise components in your vehicle's Tow Package.
- Review the window sticker (Monroney) for explicit mention of a Tow Package or its option code.
- Check the original build sheet or VIN-based summary through the dealer or Lexus customer portal to see included equipment.
- Inspect for visible hardware: trailer hitch receiver (2-inch) and a trailer wiring connector (4-pin or 7-pin).
- Look in the owner's manual or service documentation for mentions of engine oil cooler, transmission cooler, or Trailer Sway Control.
- Ask your nearest Lexus dealer to pull the vehicle's factory options list or perform a "build sheet" lookup for exact contents.
Verifying these sources ensures you know the precise components and the towing capabilities of your specific Lexus model.
Summary
Lexus tow packages typically bundle a hitch, trailer wiring, and cooling and stability features to enable towing, but the exact components and towing capacity vary by model and year. Always confirm with the window sticker, build sheet, or dealer to know precisely what your vehicle includes and how much it can tow.
