It is essential to know the towing capacity of your vehicle. We often get asked what the towing capacity is of a towbar but the vehicle itself gets over looked. It is actually the vehilce that determines what you can safely tow legally.
The exact towing capacity is different from vehicle to vehicle so its important to know this information.
Each and every vehicle has its on individual vehicle identification number plate, know as a VIN Plate that can give you a huge amount of knowledge abut your vehicle. This can usually be found on the door pillar or under the bonnet.
The vin plate will display a 17 identification code made up of letters and numbers. This can tell you such information of where the car was built, when it was built, By what manufacturer and engine size.
Underneath this series of numbers and letters you can expect to find either 3 or 4 sets of weights.
The top figure is the gross vehicle weight, the maximum allowable mass (also known as MAM) of the vehicle including occupants, fuel and playload.
The second figure is the gorss train weight, this is the combined maximum allowable mass of the vehilce and the trailer.
The third and fourth figures are the maximum axle loads front and rear. This maximum weight is inclusive of passengers, other loads and fuel.
To caluculate the recommended maximum towing capacity for your vehicle is the gross vehilce weight (Top figure) subtracted from the gross train weight (second figure) what the amount equals
Checking your vehicle's towing capacity is crucial to ensure that you tow safely without damaging your vehicle. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you determine your vehicle's towing capacity:
1. Locate the Vehicle’s Owner’s Manual
Check the towing section: The owner's manual will include a dedicated section that specifies the maximum towing capacity. This is the most reliable source of information for your specific vehicle model.
Different configurations: The towing capacity might vary based on the engine size, transmission type, and whether the vehicle is equipped with towing packages.
2. Look at the Manufacturer’s Label (VIN Sticker)
Each and every vehicle has its on individual vehicle identification number plate, know as a VIN Plate that can give you a huge amount of knowledge abut your vehicle. This can usually be found on the door pillar or under the bonnet.
The vin plate will display a 17 identification code made up of letters and numbers. This can tell you such information of where the car was built, when it was built, By what manufacturer and engine size.
Underneath this series of numbers and letters you can expect to find either 3 or 4 sets of weights.
The top figure is the gross vehicle weight, the maximum allowable mass (also known as MAM) of the vehicle including occupants, fuel and playload.
The second figure is the gorss train weight, this is the combined maximum allowable mass of the vehilce and the trailer.
The third and fourth figures are the maximum axle loads front and rear. This maximum weight is inclusive of passengers, other loads and fuel.
3. Use a Towing Capacity Formula
To calculate the recommended maximum towing capacity for your vehicle is the gross vehicle weight (Top figure) subtracted from the gross train weight (second figure) what the amount equals.
Looking at the image above:
Gross train weight (3360kg) - MAM (1960kg) = 1400kg
If the second figure is 0 or left blank this doesn't have a towing capacity and therfore cannot tow.
4. Check Online Resources and Tools
Manufacturer’s website: Many manufacturers provide online tools where you can enter your vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) or specifications to get the exact towing capacity.
Towing guides: Some vehicle brands publish towing guides online that list towing capacities by year, model, engine size, and other factors.
5. Consider the Tongue Weight
Tongue weight: This is the weight that the trailer exerts downward on the hitch ball (typically 10-15% of the total trailer weight).
Make sure your vehicle can handle the tongue weight in addition to the overall trailer weight. If the tongue weight is too high, it can negatively affect vehicle handling and braking.
6. Take into Account Additional Passengers and Cargo
The towing capacity listed in manuals assumes a base vehicle with a driver only. If you’re carrying passengers, cargo, or gear, subtract their weight from the available towing capacity.
Example: If your vehicle's max towing capacity is 5,000 lbs and you add 500 lbs of passengers and cargo, your new towing capacity would be:5,000 lbs−500 lbs=4,500 lbs5,000lbs−500lbs=4,500lbs
7. Understand Maximum Towing Capacity vs. Safe Towing
Maximum towing capacity is the absolute limit the vehicle can tow safely. However, towing near this limit all the time can increase wear and tear on your vehicle's engine, transmission, and brakes.
It's generally safer to tow around 80-85% of your maximum towing capacity to leave some margin for safety and performance.
8. Verify the Hitch Rating
Ensure that your hitch is rated for the weight you’re planning to tow. The hitch’s class rating determines how much weight it can handle.
Class I: Up to 2,000 lbs
Class II: Up to 3,500 lbs
Class III: Up to 8,000 lbs
Class IV: Up to 10,000 lbs
Using a hitch with a lower rating than the trailer weight could lead to serious safety risks.
9. Consult the Dealer or Professional
If you're still unsure about your vehicle’s towing capacity or if you’ve modified your vehicle (e.g., lifted suspension, oversized tires), consult a professional at your dealership. They can give you the most accurate information based on any modifications or towing package upgrades.
By following these steps, you can safely determine how much weight your vehicle is capable of towing and avoid overloading it.
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