What Honda can tow 5000 lbs?
Honda models that can tow 5,000 pounds include the Pilot, Passport, and Ridgeline, each capable of reaching the 5,000-pound maximum when equipped with the factory towing package.
In practice, reaching this capacity means more than horsepower: proper equipment, drivetrain configuration, payload management, and trailer specifications all play a role. This article outlines which Hondas can tow 5,000 pounds, what equipment is required, and best practices for safe towing.
Honda models that can tow up to 5,000 pounds
The following Honda models offer a maximum towing capacity of about 5,000 pounds when the vehicle is equipped with the manufacturer's towing package and proper options.
- Honda Pilot — up to 5,000 pounds with the Tow Package; powered by a 3.5-liter V6 and a nine-speed automatic transmission.
- Honda Passport — up to 5,000 pounds with the towing package; shares the same 3.5-liter V6 drivetrain as the Pilot.
- Honda Ridgeline — up to 5,000 pounds with the towing package; a unibody pickup that uses the 3.5-liter V6 with a nine-speed automatic.
Note: The 5,000-pound rating applies to properly equipped models. Trim levels, drivetrain options, and added equipment can affect the exact tow limit, so always verify the official rating for your specific configuration.
What you need to tow 5,000 pounds
To reach the 5,000-pound towing capacity, you generally need the OEM towing equipment and related components installed and used correctly.
- Factory towing package installed by the dealer or at the factory, including essential towing hardware and configuration.
- A Class III trailer hitch rated for at least 5,000 pounds tongue weight, plus appropriate wiring and electrical harness.
- Trailer brakes and (where required by law or trailer weight) a brake controller to ensure safe stopping power.
- Engine and transmission cooling enhancements (often part of the towing package), plus a properly sized radiator and transmission cooler.
- Weight-distribution or other hitch accessories as recommended for heavier trailers, along with proper trailer mirrors and safety equipment.
Concluding note: Always confirm the exact towing equipment and ratings for your specific model and year. Payload capacity, tongue weight, and overall vehicle configuration influence real-world towing performance, even if the vehicle is rated at 5,000 pounds.
Safety and towing considerations
When towing near the upper limit, prudent planning and safe practices are essential. Consider these guidelines:
- Know the legal requirements in your area regarding trailer brakes, lighting, and hitching, and ensure your setup complies.
- Assess payload and tongue weight carefully; exceeding payload or tongue weight can degrade handling and braking.
- Perform pre-tow checks: tires (tires rated for the load), brakes, lights, and hitch connections.
- Use a weight-distribution hitch if recommended for the trailer, and consider a transmission cooler or upgraded cooling as part of the towing package.
- Drive with extra caution: allow more stopping distance, use lower gears for ascents/descents, and plan for longer braking and acceleration times.
With the right equipment and cautious driving, you can safely tow up to 5,000 pounds using a Honda Pilot, Passport, or Ridgeline.
Summary
Among current Honda models, the Pilot, Passport, and Ridgeline are the cleanest options for towing up to 5,000 pounds—each requiring the official towing package and proper configuration. Always verify the exact rating for your trim, ensure you have the appropriate hitching and braking equipment, and tow within the vehicle’s payload and tongue-weight limits to maintain safety and reliability.
