Towing Capacity of 2012 Chevy Traverse with Factory Tow Package

Updated 02/14/2018 | Published 02/13/2018

Question:

I have a 2012 Chevy Traverse , V6, with the factory tow package. How heavy can I tow? I am looking at 2005 KZ 20J with a weight of 4200 lbs. When I will be towing the trailer will be no more than 50 miles at any time. Will the vehicle be able to handle the 22 ft, trailer.

asked by: Carl J

Expert Reply:

I took a look at the online owner's manual for your 2012 Chevy Traverse and found that models with the factory tow package can safely pull a trailer that weighs up to 5,200 pounds. With this in mind, you should have no trouble pulling a 4,200 pound trailer. You will just want to make sure that the fully loaded trailer (when it's ready for a trip) does not exceed this capacity. I am not sure if the 4,200 pound weight you provided is the trailer's dry/empty weight or its GVWR, which is the most it can weigh when fully loaded.

I highly recommend that you also verify this information by checking your copy of the owner's manual, as it's possible that you have a different model.

If the factory tow package on your Traverse did not include a trailer hitch and you do not yet have one installed, I recommend the Draw-Tite Class III Max Frame Round Tube Receiver Hitch # 75528. This Class III hitch is confirmed to fit your Traverse and will use existing holes in the vehicle's frame for a no-drill installation. I have attached an installation video on your vehicle that you can use for reference.

Based on my research, your vehicle should already have a trailer connector since it has the tow package, but just in case it doesn't or you need a replacement, you can use the Hopkins 7- and 4-Pole Trailer Connector Socket # HM40975. This will plug right into the factory OEM port on the vehicle and provide you with both a 7-Way and 4-Way connector.

Lastly, you will need a ball mount and hitch ball to tow a trailer. I have attached a great article that explains how to choose the best one for your setup, along with a link that will take you to our available selection.

expert reply by: Chris R