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What is included in the Honda tow package?

In most Honda tow packages you’ll find the core hardware needed to tow a trailer safely—typically a 2-inch hitch receiver, a trailer wiring harness, and cooling upgrades for the engine and transmission. Exact contents vary by model year and trim, so it’s important to verify with a dealer or the official Honda accessories catalog for your specific vehicle.


What the package typically includes


The items listed below are commonly part of Honda’s Tow Package across several models. Not every item appears on every year or trim, so confirm the exact kit for your vehicle.



  • 2-inch hitch receiver with mounting hardware

  • Electrical trailer wiring harness (often 4- or 7-pin)

  • Engine oil cooler

  • Transmission cooler

  • Upgraded cooling system components (such as a heavy‑duty radiator or auxiliary cooling)\n

  • Pre-wiring or integrated wiring for a trailer brake controller (availability varies by model year and trim)


Note that some years or trims may include additional components or omit certain items. Always check your vehicle’s documentation or speak with a Honda dealer to confirm the exact contents for your VIN.


Model-by-model overview


Pilot


The Pilot Tow Package generally includes a 2-inch hitch, a seven-pin wiring harness, engine oil cooler, transmission cooler, and cooling-system enhancements designed to support towing within the model’s rated limit. Availability and exact contents depend on model year and trim; some versions may offer brake-controller pre-wiring.


Ridgeline


For Ridgeline, the Tow Package typically bundles a 2-inch hitch receiver, a 7-pin wiring harness, engine oil cooler, and a transmission cooler, plus a heavy‑duty cooling package. This configuration enables the Ridgeline to tow up to its maximum rating on eligible trims and years. Exact components can vary by year.


Passport


The Passport Tow Package mirrors the Pilot’s core components: hitch, wiring harness, engine oil cooler, transmission cooler, and cooling upgrades as required by towing capacity, with possible brake-controller wiring on certain years.


CR-V


CR-V Tow Package availability has varied by generation. In some years it includes a hitch and wiring harness, and in others it may offer enhanced cooling or brake-controller readiness. Check the specific year and trim to see what’s offered for your vehicle.


Important notes


Always verify the exact contents for your vehicle’s VIN. Tow ratings and included equipment can differ by year, trim, and market. A Honda dealer can provide the official Tow Package kit details and installation information for your model.


Summary


Honda’s Tow Package is designed to provide the hardware and cooling needed to tow within the vehicle’s rating. Core components typically include a 2-inch hitch, trailer wiring, engine and transmission coolers, and cooling upgrades, with optional brake-controller wiring depending on the year. Because contents vary, consult your dealer or the official Honda accessories catalog for your exact model and year.

What is the 80% rule for towing?


Many RVers are strict followers of the 80% or 80/20 rule of towing, and it's a great rule to live by if you want to ensure you don't overload your tow vehicle. The 80% towing rule is less of a “rule” and more of an idea: don't pull a trailer with a GVWR that is more than 80% of your vehicle's maximum towing capacity.



What does the Honda tow package include?


The Tow Package includes the following:
Trailer Hitch. Ball Mount. Hitch Panel. Trailer Hitch Harness.



What does the tow package include?


The contents of a towing package vary, but towing packages generally include a tow hitch, electrical connections or wiring harnesses, and additional driver-assistance systems. High-end packages will also include suspension and brakes, cooling systems, and a battery and alternator.



What Hondas have a tow package?


Which Honda Vehicles Include a Towing Capacity?

  • Honda Ridgeline. Perhaps if you're searching for a rugged midsize truck that can easily tow those heavy items to the job site, you might consider the Honda Ridgeline.
  • Honda Pilot. Next up is the Pilot.
  • Honda CR-V. One other option that you can go with is the CR-V.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.