What is the towing capacity of the Chevy Spark?

The Chevy Spark does not have an official towing capacity published by Chevrolet, and towing with this compact hatchback is generally not recommended. In practice, owners should not rely on the Spark for pulling trailers and should seek alternatives for any hauling needs.

This article reviews the official guidance, regional variations, and practical implications for anyone considering towing with a Spark, and suggests safer options for transporting cargo when a trailer is involved.

Official guidance on towing

U.S. and Canada

In North America, Chevrolet’s Spark specifications and owner manuals typically do not list a towing capacity. The lack of a rating effectively signals that towing is not supported by the manufacturer, due to the car’s light curb weight, payload limits, and braking performance.

Other markets

Similarly, in regions where the Spark is sold outside North America, official literature rarely provides a towing figure. Consumers should not assume towing is approved; regional manuals should be consulted for any notes about towing capability or restrictions.

Key points from official guidance:

• No published towing capacity for the Spark in current official documentation.


• Chevrolet generally advises against towing with the Spark.


• Using a hitch and attempting to tow may void warranties or raise safety concerns.

Conclusion: There is no official towing rating for the Chevy Spark; towing is not recommended by the manufacturer.

Practical considerations for owners

The Spark is a lightweight vehicle with a small engine and limited payload capacity. Attempting to tow can place stress on the drivetrain, brakes, and suspension, and may compromise handling and safety. If you need to move a trailer or heavy load, a more capable vehicle is typically required.

Before considering any towing, review the vehicle’s payload, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), and brake capability, and consult the owner's manual or a Chevrolet dealer for the most current guidance.

Safer alternatives if you need extra cargo capacity

For those who simply need more cargo space without towing, several non-towing options can help maximize the Spark’s practicality:

• Install a roof rack or a cargo box to add storage without adding trailer weight.


• Use a hitch-mounted cargo carrier or bike rack if the hitch is designed for such use and local regulations allow it.


• Consider a larger or more capable vehicle (such as a compact SUV or crossover) for regular towing or heavy hauling.

Always verify accessory compatibility, weight limits, and warranty implications with a qualified technician and refer to the owner's manual for official guidance.

Summary

The Chevy Spark does not carry an official towing capacity in Chevrolet’s standard specifications, and towing is generally not recommended. For light cargo or accessories, non-towing solutions like roof racks or hitch-mounted carriers can help, but always stay within the vehicle’s payload limits and local regulations. If towing is a frequent need, consider a different vehicle better suited for trailer towing.

What is the 80% rule for towing?

The 80% rule for towing is a safety guideline that recommends the weight of a fully loaded trailer should not exceed 80% of a vehicle's maximum towing capacity. This provides a safety margin for unpredictable conditions and reduces stress on the vehicle's engine, transmission, and brakes, helping to ensure better handling and a longer lifespan for components.
 
How it works

• Calculate your vehicle's limit: Find your vehicle's maximum towing capacity in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's website. 
• Calculate 80% of the limit: Multiply the maximum towing capacity by 0.800.800.80 to find your safe towing limit. For example, if your vehicle can tow 10,00010 comma 00010,000 pounds, your limit is 8,0008 comma 0008,000 pounds. 
• Account for all weight: Ensure the total weight of the fully loaded trailer, including cargo and passengers in both the vehicle and the trailer, stays below this 80% limit. 

Why it's important

• Safety margin: It provides a buffer for real-world factors like hills, curves, and sudden stops. 
• Vehicle longevity: It reduces strain on key components like the engine, transmission, and brakes, which can extend their lifespan. 
• Handling: Maintaining a margin helps ensure your vehicle can be steered and controlled effectively, even under load. 

Can you put a tow hitch on a Chevy Spark?

This trailer hitch for Chevrolet Spark comes with a class 1 ball mount, hitch pin and all necessary hardware for the installation (Note: A trailer ball is not included with this package and must be purchased separately if needed).

What is the common problem with Chevrolet Spark?

Common Chevy Spark problems include transmission issues (slipping, delays, or noise), engine troubles (stalling, rough idling, or overheating), and electrical problems (like issues with the alarm, dashboard lights, or infotainment system). Other reported concerns involve AC system failures, particularly with the compressor, and steering issues, such as stiffness or noises.
 
This video explains common problems with the Chevy Spark: 59sNexologyYouTube · Sep 18, 2025
Transmission

• Slipping gears and delays: The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) can sometimes slip or be slow to shift. 
• Unusual noises: Some owners report noises like humming, especially at certain RPMs. 
• Overheating: The transmission can overheat, particularly in hot weather or during long drives. 

Engine

• Stalling: The engine may stall, particularly when slowing down or stopping, often due to a faulty idle air control (IAC) valve or a dirty throttle body. 
• Rough idle and poor acceleration: Some owners report rough idling and a lack of power, especially at highway speeds. 
• Overheating: The engine can also overheat, which may be related to cooling fan performance. 

Electrical

• Faulty alarms: The car alarm may go off randomly while parked. 
• Dashboard and infotainment issues: Problems with dashboard lights or the infotainment system can occur, often due to faulty wiring or fuses. 
• Airbag problems: There have been recalls related to airbag performance and the car's compliance with safety regulations. 

This video discusses the issues with Chevy Spark's engine and airbags: 59sNotYourAverageEVYouTube · Dec 27, 2023
Other common problems

• AC system: The AC may not blow cold, frequently due to a faulty compressor or refrigerant leaks. 
• Steering: Stiffness or clicking noises can develop from the power steering system. 
• Brakes: Issues with the brakes, such as the ABS warning light coming on, have been reported. 

How much can a Chevy Spark pull?

The Chevrolet Spark is not designed for towing, and the manufacturer's recommendation is to never tow with it. While some aftermarket hitches are rated for up to 2,000 lbs of gross trailer weight, this is not a factory-supported capacity and can strain the vehicle's transmission and other systems, potentially leading to costly repairs. 

• Manufacturer Recommendation: The official recommendation from Chevrolet is to not tow with the Spark at all. 
• Aftermarket Hitch Capacity: Trailer hitches for the Spark are rated for a maximum of 2,000 lbs gross trailer weight and 200 lbs of tongue weight. 
• Associated Risks: Towing beyond the manufacturer's recommendation puts excessive strain on the vehicle's transmission and other components, increasing the risk of premature wear and failure. 
• Safer Alternative: For any towing needs, it is safer to use a vehicle that is properly equipped for it, such as a truck or larger SUV.