Which Toyota Tundra can tow 12,000 lbs?

In short, the Toyota Tundra models that can tow 12,000 pounds are those equipped with Toyota’s Tow Package and the 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, which covers most SR5 through Platinum trims. The i-FORCE MAX hybrid variant can also reach this rating when properly configured. The exact figure depends on cab/bed configuration and drivetrain, so always verify the exact rating for your build.

How the 12,000-pound rating is determined

Towing capacity for the Tundra is vehicle-specific and depends on factors such as cab and bed length, drivetrain (two-wheel or four-wheel drive), axle ratio, and the presence of the factory Tow Package. Manufacturers publish the maximum rating for each configuration, and individual builds may vary. If you’re planning to tow 12,000 pounds regularly, confirm the exact rating for your exact combination.

Engine options and configurations that reach 12,000 lbs

These configurations are commonly listed at or near the 12,000-pound maximum when equipped with the Tow Package.

• 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 (the i-FORCE) with Tow Package; available across several cab/bed configurations and capable of towing up to about 12,000 lbs with proper equipment.


• i-FORCE MAX hybrid with Tow Package; available in CrewMax and Double Cab configurations; rated up to around 12,000 lbs when properly equipped.

Note: The exact maximum towing figure depends on your chosen cab/bed layout, drivetrain, and axle setup. Always verify the official rating for your specific build through the window sticker or Toyota’s official specifications.

What to check before aiming for 12,000 pounds

Before attempting to tow 12,000 pounds, confirm you have the correct equipment and setup. The following considerations help ensure safe and accurate towing performance.

• Proper Tow Package inclusion and hitch type (Class IV or equivalent) matching the trailer’s weight.


• Trailer brakes and a correctly wired brake controller on the towing vehicle.


• Weight distribution hitch and tongue weight management; aim for appropriate tongue weight as a percentage of the loaded trailer.


• Wiring for trailer lights, brake lights, and turn signals; ensure connections are secure and compliant.


• Payload capacity and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) for the Tundra configuration to avoid overloading the truck.


• Cooling, oil, and transmission considerations for sustained high-load towing; adequate cooling and fluid levels are essential.


• New tires with appropriate load ratings for both the truck and trailer; check inflation to match load demands.


• Driver aids and towing modes (where available) to help manage stability and braking on long pulls.

Concluding guidance: To achieve and safely maintain a 12,000-pound tow level, select a Tundra with the Tow Package and a powertrain capable of the rating, verify the exact figure for your cab/bed/drivetrain, and follow towing best practices and manufacturer guidelines at all times.

Summary

The Toyota Tundra’s 12,000-pound towing capability is available across multiple configurations that include the Tow Package and either the 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 or the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain. The precise rating depends on cab/bed layout, drivetrain, and axle setup, so always confirm the exact figure for your build and adhere to official towing guidelines for safe operation.

Which Toyota Tundra model is best for towing?

The best Toyota Tundra for towing is the SR5 Double Cab with a 6.5-foot bed and a 2WD drivetrain, which has a maximum towing capacity of 12,000 pounds. Other models offer strong towing capabilities, such as the hybrid i-FORCE MAX Limited, which can tow up to 11,450 pounds. 
Maximum towing capacity by configuration

• SR5 Double Cab (2WD) with 6.5-foot bed: Up to 12,000 lbs. This is the highest-rated configuration for towing and payload. 
• SR5 Double Cab (4WD) with 6.5-foot bed: Up to 11,200 lbs. 
• Limited i-FORCE MAX CrewMax with 5.5-foot bed (2WD): Up to 11,450 lbs. 
• TRD Pro (4WD): Up to 11,175 lbs. 

Other factors to consider

• Drivetrain: A 2WD drivetrain generally offers a higher towing capacity than a 4WD drivetrain for the same trim level. 
• Model vs. Configuration: The highest maximum towing capacity is achieved with the SR5 trim, but other trims like the Limited i-FORCE MAX also offer very strong and more fuel-efficient hybrid towing capabilities. 
• Payload: If your primary need is hauling weight in the bed, the SR5 is also the best option with a 1,940-pound payload capacity. 
• Transmission: The 2022-present Tundras use a 10-speed transmission. Older models may not have a factory transmission cooler, which is recommended for heavy towing. 
• Hybrid vs. Gas: The i-FORCE MAX hybrid engine offers significant power and torque for towing, with hybrid models capable of towing over 11,000 pounds. 

Which Tundra pulls 12000 lbs?

Tundra SR5
Tundra SR5: 12,000 pounds. Tundra Limited: 11,450 pounds. Tundra Platinum: 11,380 pounds. Tundra 1794 Edition: 11,380 pounds.

How much can a 5.7 Tundra pull?

The towing capacity for a Toyota Tundra with a 5.7L V8 engine is up to 10,200 pounds when properly equipped, though the exact capacity can vary based on the model year, trim, drivetrain (4x2 or 4x4), and cab/bed configuration. The 5.7L engine provides 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque, making it capable of towing boats, campers, and trailers.
 
This video demonstrates a Toyota Tundra towing an Airstream trailer: 58sKEdRevsYouTube · Dec 16, 2023
Factors that affect towing capacity

• Model Year: Newer models (2021-2022) can have higher towing capacities of up to 12,000 pounds, while earlier models may have slightly lower capacities. 
• Trim Level: Different trim levels have different towing capacities. For example, the Platinum trim may have a lower capacity than a standard SR5 trim. 
• Drivetrain: 4x2 models generally have a higher towing capacity than 4x4 models due to being lighter. 
• Configuration: The cab and bed configuration (e.g., Double Cab vs. CrewMax) can also impact towing capacity. 
• Equipment: The presence of a heavy-duty tow package, which includes engine and transmission coolers, a trailer brake controller, and a heavy-duty battery and alternator, is essential for achieving maximum towing capacity. 

What can a Tundra with a 5.7L engine tow?

• A-Frame campers
• Small travel trailers
• Motorcycle and jet ski trailers
• Fishing boat trailers
• Large boat trailers
• Pop-up campers
• Small horse trailers 

You can watch this video to learn more about the towing experience with a Toyota Tundra: 1mThe Fast Lane TruckYouTube · Jul 15, 2025

What year tundras to stay away from?

You should be wary of the 2007, 2012, and 2013 Toyota Tundra model years due to common issues like air injection pump failure, frame rust, and transmission problems. Additionally, some owners recommend avoiding the 2022 model year, as it was the first year of a new generation and had a number of reported issues with its new engine and technology.
 
Specific model years to be cautious of

• 2007: This year is known for problems with the air injection pump, engine knocking, and drivetrain vibrations. 
• 2012: This model year is frequently cited as the worst due to a high number of complaints about engine, transmission, and electrical issues. 
• 2013: Potential issues include gearbox problems and lower fuel efficiency. 
• 2017: While generally reliable, this year had six recalls related to potential power steering leaks, seat bracket breakage, and incorrect load information. 
• 2022: As the first model year of the new generation, it is recommended to avoid this year due to a number of issues with the new engine and technology. 

Other considerations

• 2005-2008: These years had a high number of complaints, with common problems including secondary air pump failure and frame rust. 
• 2020: Some sources suggest avoiding this year due to potential paint defects and other quality control issues, possibly due to COVID-19-related workforce disruptions. 
• 2000-2003: These years were recalled for rust-prone rear crossmembers.