Choosing the Right Tow Vehicle: Essential Tips for Towing Success
Selecting a Tow Vehicle
Many types of vehicles – SUVs, pickup trucks, vans, minivans, and passenger cars – can be set up to tow trailers. However, choosing the right tow vehicle and equipment depends on the trailer type, size, weight, and the load being towed. Trailers generally fall into four main categories:
Flatbed or open trailers
Boat trailers
Enclosed trailers
Recreational vehicle trailers (like travel trailers, fifth-wheel trailers, and folding camping trailers)
Before towing, consult the tow vehicle owner’s manual, trailer owner’s manual, and the manufacturer’s guide to confirm if your chosen vehicle is suitable for towing the trailer.
When assessing the vehicle's towing capabilities, also consider the compatibility of the hitch systems. This is crucial, especially if you plan to buy a hitch from a different source than the vehicle manufacturer.
Vehicle makers often offer tailored towing packages that specify the necessary equipment for towing trailers of varying sizes and weights. These packages may include upgrades like a heavy-duty radiator, battery, flasher system, suspension, brakes, engine-oil cooler, transmission-oil cooler, wiring harness, specific axle ratio, and special wheels and tires.
Remember to check the tow vehicle owner’s manual, trailer owner’s manual, and the manufacturer’s guide to ensure your vehicle is capable of towing the trailer.
Towing packages may include a trailer hitch receiver, mounted on the tow vehicle, but they usually do not include the ball mount. The ball mount, where the hitch ball is attached, is a separate piece that slides into the hitch receiver and is secured with a locking pin. The front part of the trailer that connects to the tow vehicle is called the tongue, which has a coupler for the hitch ball.
Manufacturers may offer different towing packages suited for various trailer sizes and types, specifying required and recommended equipment. For instance, extended side-view mirrors may not be necessary for all trailers, but wider trailers mandate them for clear visibility.
Already Have a Tow Vehicle?
If you already own a tow vehicle, check its tow rating – the trailer's size, maximum loaded weight, and maximum tongue weight the vehicle can tow. Refer to the tow vehicle owner’s manual for these details.
Most automotive manufacturers and dealerships provide towing guides with tow ratings and detailed information on additional equipment required for towing. Ensure your hitch system matches or exceeds the towing requirements. Additional towing gear, like a weight distribution hitch, may be necessary.
Important Safety Resources
To Report Safety Problems and Obtain More Information
If you discover a potentially serious safety problem with your vehicle, or if information is missing from your trailer certification label, call the DOT Auto Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236/TDD (800) 424-9153, or visit www.safercar.gov.
For questions regarding your tow vehicle, please contact your automobile dealer or manufacturer.
Access Additional Safety Resources Below
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1 (888) 327-4236 | www.nhtsa.gov
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(785) 272-4433 | TrailerSafetyWeek@natm.com
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www.NATM.com | (785) 272-4433 | NATMHQ@natm.com