Recommended Towing Components for 2015 to 2017 Chevy Traverse

Updated 11/21/2017 | Published 11/20/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(1798)

$164.56

Derale Snap-In Radiator Adapter Fitting for GM

(274)

$16.69

Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class III - Efficient

(874)

$103.73

Hopkins Plug-In Simple Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Connector

(25)

$70.72

Question:

Hi, We are in need of a vehicle that can tow 3000 lb. we have looked at 20152017 Chevy Traverse. One place tells me it can tow 5000, one place tells me only 2000. Am I understanding that unless it came with the factory tow package included, having the dealership install the tow hitch and wiring wouldnt make a difference bc it didnt come from the factory with it already installed? I was thinking bc they are a V6 3.6 L that would assure it could tow at least 3000.

asked by: Misty

Expert Reply:

The 2015 through 2017 Chevy Traverse models have a towing capacity of 2,000 lbs with the V6 3.6L. If you were to purchase the models with the factory tow package (all except the LS base model), the capacity increases to 5200 lbs according to the manufacturer. The tow package includes the trailer hitch and a heavy-duty cooling system.

If you already have the non-tow package model, the manufacturer rating won't change because they didn't install the parts. Adding a hitch like the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # 75528 confirmed to fit those model years will not change that capacity, but it will allow you to tow the 2,000 lbs. Adding an aftermarket cooler will surely help your vehicle, but the capacity increase of your vehicle will not be calculated, so you will be operating outside of the manufacturer warranty if you tow more than 2,000 lbs. Personally, if I were even towing the 2,000 lbs, I'd still add the Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class III - Efficient # D13503 to help the transmission run cooler. I also recommend using the Derale Snap-In Radiator Adapter Fitting for GM # D13035 for a better fit than the universal adapter.

For your wiring, I recommend the Hopkins Plug-In Simple Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Connector # HM11141150. This custom-fit T-connector plugs into your Chevrolet Traverse's wiring harness, which is located behind the driver's-side and passenger's-side tail lights. You will have to remove the rear floor liner, scuff panel, and the tail light assemblies to access this harness. Once you've plugged in the connector, run the red hot lead up to your car battery. Connect the included fuse holder, and then connect the fuse holder to the positive terminal on your battery. I've attached an article to assist with this hot lead wire.

For a ball mount, I recommend the etrailer ball mount kit # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts; one with a 3/4 inch rise or 2 inch drop and one with a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop. It also includes a 1-7/8 inch ball, 2 inch ball, hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag.