What is the towing package on a Durango?

The towing package, often labeled the Trailer Tow Package, is an optional bundle that equips the Durango with the hardware and systems needed to pull trailers more safely and effectively. With the right engine and configuration, it supports towing up to about 8,700 pounds; otherwise, capacities start around 6,200 pounds.

For prospective buyers and owners, the key questions are what the package includes, how much it can tow, and how to verify whether a specific Durango has it. The following guide breaks down the package, capacity by configuration, typical components, and how to confirm its presence on a given vehicle.

Engine options and towing capacity

Capacities by engine

Maximum towing figures depend on the engine choice and whether the Tow Package is installed. The typical figures are:

• 3.6-liter V6 with Trailer Tow Package: up to 6,200 pounds


• 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with Tow Package: up to 7,400 pounds


• 6.4-liter Hemi V8 (Durango SRT) with Tow Package: up to 8,700 pounds

Note: These figures assume proper equipment, a correctly rated trailer, and standard towing practices. Actual towing capacity can vary by model year, drivetrain, axle ratio, and whether a trailer brake controller is installed.

What the Trailer Tow Package typically includes

Typical components

The package bundles hardware and systems that support towing. Common components include:

• Class III receiver hitch with wiring harness (commonly 4- and 7-pin connections)


• Trailer sway control to help stabilize trailers in certain driving conditions


• Heavy-duty cooling for the engine and transmission (and often a larger radiator)


• Options for an integrated trailer brake controller on compatible trims/years

Because contents can vary by model year and trim, always verify the exact items listed on the window sticker or with a dealer for the specific Durango you’re considering.

How to tell if your Durango has the Tow Package

If you’re evaluating a Durango, here are reliable ways to confirm presence of the Tow Package:

• Check the original window sticker or Monroney label for “Trailer Tow Package” or “Tow Group.”


• Review the build sheet or order code; a Tow Package-related code usually indicates towing equipment.


• Look for the physical components, such as the factory hitch receiver and wiring harness, and any visible cooling lines or trailer brake controller.


• Ask the dealer to pull the VIN-specific option list or a copy of the original window sticker.

If a Durango does not have the Tow Package, some towing-related hardware can be added aftermarket, but capacity and warranty may differ from factory-equipped configurations.

Safe towing tips for Durango owners

To tow safely, follow these best practices:

• Know your vehicle’s maximum towing capacity and GVWR; never exceed them.


• Use a properly rated hitch (Class III) and correct wiring for trailer lights and brakes.


• Distribute weight appropriately and ensure trailer brakes (if installed) are correctly tuned.


• Engage Tow/Haul mode when towing and plan for longer braking distances.

Always refer to the owner’s manual for model-year-specific guidance and consult a dealer for exact specifications on your Durango.

Summary

The Durango’s Tow Package (Trailer Tow Package) is an optional bundle that adds essential towing hardware and systems, enabling higher towing capacities that vary by engine—from about 6,200 pounds on the V6 to as much as 8,700 pounds on the high-performance V8 in the Durango SRT. Check the window sticker, build sheet, or VIN to confirm exact contents and capacity for a given vehicle, and follow safe towing practices at all times.

Is a Dodge Durango good for towing?

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What is included in the Dodge Durango tow package?

The Dodge Durango tow package, most commonly the Tow N' Go package or Trailer Tow Group IV, is an option that includes a Class IV receiver hitch, integrated trailer brake controller, and wiring harness, as well as performance upgrades like Brembo brakes and active damping suspension, to enable a maximum towing capacity of up to 8,700 pounds. It also adds Blind Spot Monitoring with Trailer Tow Detection for safer towing and often includes heavy-duty cooling components like a larger alternator and radiator.
 
Key components of the tow package

• Class IV Receiver Hitch: The core component that the trailer attaches to. 
• Integrated Trailer Brake Controller: Manages the trailer's braking system. 
• 4- and 7-Pin Wiring Harness: Connects the trailer's lights and electrical system to the Durango. 
• Heavy-Duty Cooling System: Upgraded components like a bigger alternator and heavy-duty radiator to handle the extra load. 
• Performance Suspension: Includes features like active damping suspension for a better ride when towing and electronic limited-slip differential. 
• Performance Brakes: Often includes SRT Brembo brakes for increased stopping power. 
• Blind Spot Monitoring with Trailer Tow Detection: A safety feature that alerts the driver if a vehicle is detected in the blind spot or alongside the trailer. 

How it impacts towing

• Increased Capacity: The package allows for the highest towing capacity, which can be up to 8,700 pounds with certain engines. 
• Enhanced Safety: The addition of trailer detection helps the driver navigate traffic more confidently. 
• Improved Handling: Upgraded suspension and brakes provide better control and stability when towing a heavy load. 

What is usually included in a towing package?

A tow package includes a trailer hitch and wiring harness, and often features upgrades like a heavy-duty radiator, a transmission cooler, enhanced suspension and brakes, and a larger alternator to handle the added stress of towing. The specific contents depend on the vehicle and the package level (basic, heavy-duty, or max tow).
 
Core components

• Trailer hitch receiver: A sturdy mounting point for a trailer hitch. 
• Wiring harness: Connects the towing vehicle to the trailer's lights, signals, and electric brakes. 

Supporting upgrades

• Cooling system: Upgraded radiator and a transmission oil cooler to prevent overheating, especially in automatic transmissions. 
• Engine and electrical: A larger radiator, higher-capacity alternator, and a more powerful battery to handle the increased electrical load and engine strain. 
• Chassis and suspension: Reinforced frames, heavier-duty springs, and upgraded shocks to handle the extra weight. 
• Brakes: Heavy-duty brakes and an integrated trailer brake controller, which helps operate the trailer's brakes. 
• Gearing: Upgraded rear axle ratios to make towing less stressful on the engine and transmission. 

Advanced features

• Trailer sway control: A system that helps maintain stability when towing a trailer. 
• Trailer backup assist: Technology that helps with maneuvering the trailer when backing up. 
• Towing-specific drive modes: A "tow-haul" mode that adjusts the transmission for towing. 

How to identify a tow package

• Check the vehicle's window sticker: The original window sticker (Monroney label) will list any included tow packages. 
• Look for the hitch receiver: The presence of a factory-installed hitch receiver is a strong indicator of a tow package. 
• Inspect the front grille: Look for the transmission cooler, which often has visible radiator fins located low in the front of the vehicle. 
• Check for the wiring harness: A round electrical connector, such as a 7-pin connector, at the rear of the vehicle indicates the presence of a tow package. 

What's the difference between a tow package and a trailer package?

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