Brake Controller & How to Determine Tow Capacity of 2016 GMC Yukon XL Denali AWD

Updated 01/11/2023 | Published 01/10/2023

Question:

We have a 2016 Yukon xl Denali awd. How heavy of a travel trailer can we tow. I look at 31 ft but they the ones I like are 7200 lbs approx

asked by: Christine M

Expert Reply:

I Googled the owners manual for a 2016 GMC Yukon XL Denali and it stated that the towing capacity will depend on a couple factors. So in order to determine the towing capacity you have to know if you have a long or short wheelbase, as well as your axle ratio. An axle ratio of 3.08 will be 6,000 or 6,300 lbs while a 3.42 axle ratio will be 8,000 or 8,200 lbs depending on your wheelbase.

When towing a trailer that large it will have electric brakes so you'll need a brake controller, and a very simple to use, high-quality option is from Curt, the Curt Assure Trailer Brake Controller with Adjustable Screen # C49UR.

To install this you'll also need the Wiring Adapter for Curt Trailer Brake Controllers # C51515. If your 2016 GMC Yukon Denali XL has the factory tow package you won't need anything else; if it doesn't you'll also need the Custom Multi-Tow 7-Way and 4-Way Trailer Connectors # 30955.

expert reply by: Kyle S