Which Chevy Traverse has a tow package?
The tow package is available on Chevy Traverse models that use the 3.6L V6 engine, typically as part of an optional Trailering Package. With the right equipment, you can tow up to about 5,000 pounds.
Understanding the Trailering Package
The Trailering Package (RPO Z82) is designed to prepare the Traverse for hauling trailers. It isn’t tied to a single trim; it’s an optional bundle that can be added to most trims that offer the V6 engine. Availability varies by model year and region, and the exact contents can change with revisions to the lineup. Always verify the build sheet or window sticker to confirm if a specific Traverse includes Z82.
What the Trailering Package typically includes
Below are the components most commonly included in the Chevrolet Trailering Package for the Traverse. The exact contents can vary by year and region, so confirm on your vehicle’s build sheet.
- 2-inch hitch receiver for towing and hitch accessories
- 7-pin and 4-pin wiring harness connectors for trailer lights and brakes
- Enhanced engine and transmission cooling, including an auxiliary cooler
- Upgraded radiator and cooling fans to support prolonged towing
- Trailer brake controller (available on some years/models)
- Tow/Haul driving mode and other towing-specific calibrations
- Stability and towing aids on certain configurations
- Heavy-duty cooling package and GVWR adjustments where applicable
The presence of the Trailering Package enables the Traverse to achieve its published towing capacity, up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped and loaded.
Which trims and years commonly offer the tow package
Across its recent generations, Chevrolet has offered the Trailering Package as an option on several trims that use the 3.6L V6. In practice, you’ll most often encounter it on LT, Premier, and High Country models. The base LS trim may require a specific build or may not include the package in every year, so it’s essential to verify with the dealer or on the vehicle’s build sheet.
- Chevrolet Traverse LT (including LT Leather): commonly available with the Trailering Package
- Chevrolet Traverse Premier: commonly available with the Trailering Package
- Chevrolet Traverse High Country: commonly available with the Trailering Package
- Chevrolet Traverse LS: may be available as an option on some years, but not guaranteed; check the VIN/build sheet
Note: The 5,000-pound towing rating applies to properly equipped vehicles and depends on the model year, drivetrain, axle ratio, and other configuration details. Always confirm the exact towing capacity for your specific Traverse using the VIN or the dealer’s build documentation.
How to verify if your Traverse has the tow package
To confirm whether a specific Traverse has the tow package, use these checks:
- Review the window sticker (Monroney label) for the Trailering Package or the RPO code Z82.
- Check the vehicle’s VIN against Chevrolet’s build sheet or a dealership database for Z82 and towing-related equipment.
- Inspect for hardware such as a trailer hitch receiver, trailer wiring harness (4-pin and 7-pin connectors), and any visible towing-related cooling components.
- Look in the instrument cluster for Tow/Haul mode and confirm the presence of a trailer brake controller if equipped.
If you already own the vehicle, a dealership service department can verify the exact configuration via the build sheet or diagnostic data. The 5,000-pound towing capacity is conditional on the vehicle meeting all towing requirements and having the appropriate equipment.
What to consider when towing with a Traverse
Towing with a Traverse requires careful planning beyond installing a tow package. Respect the vehicle’s GVWR, tongue weight, payload, and trailer weight. Consider trailer length, braking needs, and sway control. Always consult the owner’s manual for safety guidelines and the maximum allowable tow rating for your specific configuration.
Summary
The Chevy Traverse does not rely on a single, fixed “tow package” tied to one trim. Instead, the capable towing setup is typically the Trailering Package (RPO Z82), available on many LT, Premier, and High Country models equipped with the 3.6L V6. When properly equipped, the Traverse can tow up to about 5,000 pounds. Always verify the exact configuration using the window sticker or VIN to ensure you have the proper gear for towing.
What Chevy Traverse has a tow package?
What model Chevy Traverse has a tow package? All four Chevy Traverse trim levels – the LT, High Country, Z71, and RS – come with the Trailering Package as standard. That means, no matter your preferred model, your 2025 Chevy Traverse will have a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds1 by default.
Do Chevy Traverse come with a tow hitch?
Yes, the Chevy Traverse has a tow hitch, though it's often included as part of an available Trailering Package. The package adds a factory-installed hitch and a heavy-duty cooling system, which is necessary to achieve the maximum 5,000-pound towing capacity on most models. Some higher trims, like the Z71, come with the trailering package standard.
- Standard Trailering Package: For the 2025 model year, all trims come with the standard Trailering Package and have a 5,000-pound towing capacity with a hitch.
- Optional Trailering Package: For previous model years, an optional Trailering Package that includes the hitch and a heavy-duty cooling system was available to achieve the 5,000-pound towing capacity.
- Hitch and other features: The package provides the necessary hitch and other equipment like a heavy-duty cooling system and Hitch Guidance with Hitch View for easier trailer hookups.
- Base model towing: Even without the full trailering package, a base model Traverse can typically tow about 1,500 pounds.
What's the difference between a tow package and a trailer package?
What is the difference between a trailer hitch and a tow package? A tow package often includes a hitch along with other enhancements like cooling, brakes, and suspension, while a hitch alone is just the attachment point for the trailer.
Which Chevy Traverse to stay away from?
This issue isn't unique to the Traverse, though. At some point in any model's life, it was almost certain to have seen transmission issues. Being that it seems that the 2010, and 2011 models are the worst to get, most models after 2013 will serve you well.
