What is included in tow package?
When purchasing a vehicle or upgrading your current one, you may come across the term "tow package." But what exactly does a tow package include, and how does it enhance your vehicle's towing capabilities? At Kevin's Autos, with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, we’re here to break it down for you.
Understanding the Tow Package
A tow package is a set of components and upgrades designed to prepare your vehicle for towing. It ensures that your vehicle can safely and efficiently handle the additional weight of a trailer, boat, or other towable items. Tow packages can vary depending on the vehicle type and manufacturer, but they generally include several key features.
Key Components of a Tow Package
Here are the most common components included in a tow package:
- Trailer Hitch: The most recognizable part of a tow package, the trailer hitch is a sturdy metal attachment mounted to the rear of your vehicle. It serves as the connection point for your trailer or other towable equipment.
- Wiring Harness: This component connects your vehicle's electrical system to the trailer, allowing the trailer's lights and signals to function in sync with your vehicle.
- Upgraded Suspension: Some tow packages include reinforced or upgraded suspension systems to handle the extra weight and maintain vehicle stability while towing.
- Transmission Cooler: Towing can put additional strain on your vehicle's transmission. A transmission cooler helps prevent overheating and extends the life of your transmission.
- Heavy-Duty Brakes: Enhanced braking systems may be included to ensure your vehicle can safely stop while towing heavy loads.
- Engine and Drivetrain Upgrades: Some tow packages include more powerful engines, reinforced drivetrains, or additional cooling systems to handle the increased demands of towing.
- Trailer Sway Control: Advanced tow packages may include electronic systems to reduce trailer sway and improve stability during towing.
Factory Tow Package vs. Aftermarket Tow Package
When considering a tow package, you’ll have the option of a factory-installed package or an aftermarket one:
- Factory Tow Package: Installed by the vehicle manufacturer, these packages are designed specifically for your vehicle model. They often include all necessary components and are covered under the vehicle’s warranty.
- Aftermarket Tow Package: Installed after the vehicle is purchased, these packages can be customized to your specific towing needs. However, they may not integrate as seamlessly as factory options.
Is a Tow Package Right for You?
If you plan to tow frequently or haul heavy loads, investing in a tow package is essential. It not only enhances your vehicle’s towing capacity but also ensures safety and reliability on the road. At Kevin’s Autos, we can help you determine the best tow package for your needs and install it with precision and care.
Contact us today to learn more about tow packages or to schedule an installation. With our expertise, you can tow with confidence!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does towing cover?
Towing and labor cost coverage is an optional coverage you can add to your car insurance that typically protects you against some of the costs and hassles associated with common roadside breakdowns. This can include things like dead batteries, flat tires or even lockouts.
How do I know if a vehicle has a tow package?
If you look behind the front grille, there should be another smaller radiator off to one side. If you have that, you have the tow package. It should be black and roughly envelope-sized.
Do I really need a tow package?
Things are different if you're planning to tow heavy loads with your vehicle, such as a boat, large camper, or horse trailer. In this situation, you should invest in a complete tow package that includes heavy-duty shocks or springs, stronger brakes, a transmission cooler, and an upgraded battery.
What do most towing companies charge?
Average Towing Cost Per Mile
Most tow companies charge $50 to $125 for a 5- to 10-mile local tow, or a $75 hook-up fee and $2 to $4 per mile for long-distance towing. The average 40-mile tow costs $125 to $250. Before you call a tow truck company, check your car insurance policy for free tow-truck service coverage.
What's the difference between a tow hitch and a tow package?
The tow hitch is the part of the vehicle that provides the connection point for towing a trailer or other loads. On the other hand, a tow package is a comprehensive set of features and components that a vehicle manufacturer offers to enhance its towing capabilities.
Is it illegal to have a tow hitch installed when not towing?
Unlike other states, driving with a trailer hitch in California is against the law, just like running a stop sign or driving while using a cell phone is illegal. Contact an accident lawyer for more information.
How much does it cost to have a tow package installed?
The average range for a receiver trailer hitch with all parts and labor costs included ranges from $400-$1,230 depending on the class (I-V), build quality, and brand. On the other hand, Gooseneck costs between $680 and $1,280, including all parts and labor costs.
Will my VIN number tell me if I have a tow package?
There's nothing in the 'VIN code' that reveals presence of the Max Tow Package 53C - one must access the complete underlying VIN-specific vehicle equipment database to determine that. The axle ratio does not provide the answer because the 53C package uses ratios common to vehicles without the package (3:55 / 3:73).
Does roadside include towing?
What does roadside assistance cover? Roadside assistance typically covers basic tasks that can get your car back on the road if you're stranded. These services include: Towing your car if it's had a mechanical breakdown or can't be driven.
What does the tow package consist of?
Basic Tow Package: Often found on smaller vehicles or crossovers, this might include a hitch, wiring for trailer lights, and minimal engine or cooling system upgrades.
