Towing Capacity for 2016 Chevrolet Traverse without Factory Tow Package
Updated 07/22/2020 | Published 03/07/2017 >
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
So we have a 2016 Chevy Traverse LT with front wheel drive and we recently purchased the Draw-Tite Class 3 round Tube hitch receiver. I noticed that it said max towing weight was 5000 lbs and I saw that Chevrolet said that the Traverse, when properly equipped is rated to tow 5200 lbs. I wasnt sure if i could actually tow 5000 lbs because i know that my vehicle does not have the factory installed towing package. So I am asking you if my vehicle would be able to tow this amount of weight. Also, Id like to throw in that along with the hitch, we have used a cargo rack and bike rack with the car so far and I am very happy to say that I am very pleased with this product. Thanks and I look forward to hearing your response soon!
asked by: Geoffrey B
Expert Reply:
When looking at weight capacities of a towing setup, you will always be limited by a system's weakest component. I took a look at the online owner's manual for your 2016 Chevrolet Traverse and saw that for a front-wheel drive model that does not have the factory trailer towing package, the maximum trailer weight is 2,000 pounds. As you mentioned in your question, the factory towing package would have bumped it up to 5,200 pounds.
So with your Traverse that does not have the factory tow package, you will need to stay under 2,000 pounds of trailer weight even though the installed Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch # 75528 has a far greater capacity of 5,000 pounds.
If you do plan on towing with your vehicle, I recommend using the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness # C56181 to install a 4-way trailer connector on your Traverse. The T-connector will plug directly into existing wiring on the vehicle. I have included a installation video for you to look at.
You will also need a ball mount like the Curt Class III Ball Mount # C45036 with a 2 inch drop. I have attached a link to our selection as well as a helpful article that details how to choose the correct one for your setup.
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Video: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness Installation - 2017 Chevrolet Traverse
- Shop: Roof Rack
- Shop: Curt LED 4-Way Flat Connector (Vehicle End) Tester
- Search Results: trailer light tester
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4"
- Video: DIY 2016 Infiniti QX50 Installation for the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver
- Video: Best 2018 Kia Sorento Trailer Hitch Options
- Q&A: Can A 2016 Chevy Traverse Tow A 3,800lb Trailer Safely?
- Q&A: Trailer Towing Weight Capacity of a 2016 Chevy Traverse AWD with Tow Package
- Q&A: Recommended Trailer Wiring Harness For 2016 Chevy Traverse Without Tow Package
- Q&A: Recommended 7-Way Trailer Connector On A 2016 Chevrolet Traverse Without Factory Tow Package
- Shop: Mounting Bracket for 7-Way
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Shop: Curt Powered Tail Light Converter with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Shop: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Search Results: trailer hitch ball mount



Francine C.
7/18/2020
I have a 2017 traverse. Can I add the towing pkg and tow a trailer(3840)?