What does the tow package include?

The tow package typically adds the hardware and systems needed to tow a trailer, including a hitch, trailer wiring, and related upgrades. Exact contents vary by vehicle and trim.

In practice, a factory tow package can combine several components focused on towing capability, from physical attachment points to electrical connectivity and cooling or suspension enhancements. This article explains common inclusions, how to verify what your vehicle has, and what alternatives exist if you’re planning to tow.

Common components you’ll find in a tow package

The items below are commonly included across many trucks and SUVs that offer a factory tow package, though exact contents can differ by model and market.

• Heavy-duty hitch receiver (Class II/III/IV) that mounts to the vehicle frame to accept a trailer hitch and coupler


• Trailer wiring harness (4-pin or 7-pin) to power trailer lights, and sometimes auxiliary circuits


• Trailer brake controller (built-in or pre-wired) to activate trailer brakes from the vehicle’s brake pedal


• Transmission cooler or enhanced cooling package to manage higher temps during towing


• Engine oil cooler or other engine cooling upgrades to maintain safe temperatures while pulling


• Tow/Haul mode or software tuning to optimize shifting and engine response for towing


• Upgraded suspension components or springs to support heavier loads and reduce sag


• Trailer sway control or integrated stability features to improve handling with a trailer


• Appropriate electrical connectors and wiring routing, sometimes including a 7-pin connector for RV use


• Hardware and mounting provisions for a stable, factory-installed tow setup

In practice, the exact combination depends on the vehicle, trim level, and market. Always verify with the dealer or the window sticker to confirm which items are included on a given model.

Electrical and braking systems: how they interact with towing

Electrical and braking components are a major focus of tow packages. A brake controller lets the vehicle modulate trailer brakes for better stopping power, while a wiring harness provides power for lights and signals. Some models include pre-wired connections and a ready-to-install brake controller, while others may require an aftermarket solution if you need additional capabilities.

These electrical features work alongside cooling and suspension upgrades to create a more capable towing system overall. If your intent is frequent towing, understanding these elements helps you assess whether the standard package meets your needs or if you should seek further enhancements.

How to verify what your vehicle includes

To confirm the exact tow-package contents for your specific vehicle, use these checks and sources.

1. Consult the window sticker (Monroney label) or the vehicle’s original brochure to see listed equipment and options.


2. Check the owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s online spec sheet for tow package details by model year.


3. Inspect the back of the vehicle for a hitch receiver, trailer wiring connector (4- or 7-pin), and any visible brake controller hardware or wiring.


4. Ask the dealer or check the VIN-specific build sheet (often called a MAF or similar internal document) to confirm included components.


5. Test basic towing-related features in a safe environment (if you have access) to verify operation, such as trailer lights and any brake controller behavior.

Understanding these checks helps you avoid underestimating a vehicle’s towing capability or assuming a package includes features that aren’t actually on the model you’re considering.

Optional upgrades and aftermarket considerations

If your vehicle doesn’t come with a tow package, or you tow heavier loads than the factory rating, there are legitimate upgrade paths. The items listed here are commonly pursued for enhanced towing performance.

• Electric trailer brake controller (aftermarket or OEM) with adjustable gain and braking profiles


• Additional or upgraded hitch receiver (Class IV or higher) rated for heavier trailers


• Extra wiring options (expanded 7-pin/13-pin connectors, RV-ready sockets, etc.)


• Upgraded cooling solutions (additional transmission cooler, engine oil cooler, or a larger radiator)


• Suspension enhancements (airbags, heavier springs, or adjustable shocks) to reduce sag and improve load handling


• Trailer sway control devices or aftermarket stabilizers to improve stability on the road

Note that aftermarket upgrades can affect warranty coverage and vehicle balance, so consult the manufacturer guidelines and a reputable installer before making changes.

Summary

A tow package typically bundles a sturdy hitch, trailer wiring, braking and stability features, and cooling or suspension enhancements to improve towing performance and safety. Exact contents vary by vehicle and trim, so verifying through the window sticker, dealer, or build sheet is essential. If towing is a regular duty, you may benefit from checking for integrated brake controllers, pre-wired connections, and appropriate cooling upgrades, and consider upgrades or aftermarket solutions carefully to fit your needs and warranty terms.

What does a tow package consist of?

Trailer Tow Package – This includes the essentials: a hitch receiver, wiring harness, and usually a transmission oil cooler. Max Trailer Tow Package – Adds upgraded rear axle ratios, a heavy-duty radiator, integrated trailer brake controller, and sometimes enhanced suspension.

What does the Chevy tow package include?

A Chevy tow package typically includes a receiver hitch, wiring harness, and a transmission cooler, while the more robust Max Trailering package adds components like a trailer brake controller, enhanced cooling radiator, heavy-duty springs, and an automatic locking rear differential to increase towing capacity and control. The exact contents vary by model, trim, and the specific package, with some options including specialized features like gooseneck/fifth-wheel prep or a heavy-duty frame.
 
Chevy basic tow package

• Hitch receiver: A hitch to attach a trailer.
• Wiring harness: For connecting a trailer's lights and electrical systems.
• Transmission oil cooler: Helps prevent the transmission from overheating during towing. 

Chevy Max Trailering package

• Integrated trailer brake controller: Controls the trailer's brakes for smoother stops. 
• Handling/trailering suspension package: Includes heavy-duty rear springs, revised shock tuning, and other upgrades for better stability. 
• Enhanced cooling radiator: Provides extra cooling for the engine under heavy loads. 
• Automatic locking rear differential: Forces both rear wheels to turn together for better traction. 
• Other potential features: Depending on the vehicle, this may include a larger radiator, upgraded rear axle, and higher gross combined weight rating (GCWR). 

Other potential features

• Gooseneck/fifth-wheel prep package: Included in some heavy-duty configurations for attaching larger trailers. 
• In-vehicle trailering app: A system that allows you to store custom trailer profiles and perform pre-tow checks. 
• Hitch Guidance with Hitch View: Features that assist with hooking up a trailer by using the backup camera. 

What does it mean if a truck has a towing package?

A tow package is a collection of factory-installed options on a truck designed to increase its towing and hauling capabilities. It includes essentials like a hitch receiver and wiring harness, and higher-level packages can add components such as a heavy-duty radiator, transmission oil cooler, upgraded suspension, a more powerful alternator, and an integrated trailer brake controller. These upgrades improve vehicle stability, cooling, and overall performance when towing heavy loads. 
This video explains the different components of a tow package and how they work together: 58sFindTheBestCarPriceYouTube · May 28, 2024
Core components

• Hitch receiver and wiring: A physical hitch receiver to connect a trailer and an electrical harness to connect the trailer's lights and brakes to the vehicle. 
• Transmission cooler: A transmission oil cooler to prevent the transmission from overheating while under a heavy load. 

Higher-level and specialized components 

• Heavy-duty radiator: A larger radiator to help cool the engine more efficiently. 
• Enhanced suspension: Upgraded springs and shocks to handle the extra weight and improve stability. 
• Integrated trailer brake controller: A dashboard-mounted system that allows the driver to control the trailer's brakes. 
• Axle and gear ratio upgrades: Lower gear ratios can provide more torque for starting and climbing hills. 
• Larger battery and alternator: Provides more electrical power for the trailer's and vehicle's systems. 
• Trailer backup assist systems: Technology that helps guide the truck when backing up a trailer. 

Factory vs. aftermarket

• Factory tow package: Components are designed and installed by the vehicle's manufacturer. They are guaranteed to fit and work together as intended by the manufacturer, which can result in a higher level of safety and performance. 
• Aftermarket tow package: Parts are purchased and installed separately. This can be a more affordable option, but it's important to ensure the parts are high-quality and compatible with your specific vehicle. 

You can watch this video to learn how to determine if your vehicle has a tow package: 47spetesrvYouTube · Apr 19, 2018

What vehicles come with a tow package?

Built to Tow: Top Vehicles with Factory-Installed Trailer Hitches

• Ford Expedition.
• Toyota Sequoia.
• Nissan Titan.
• Jeep Wagoneer.