Towing Capacity Chart

iStockphoto/Tim McCaig
Before you drive off with a boat in tow, you need to make sure its weight is within your truck's towing capacity.

Towing capacity, sometimes called maximum towing capacity, is the maximum allowable weight that a vehicle can tow. Towing capacity is specified by the v­ehicle manufacturer and can usually be found in the owner’s manual. Some towing hitches’ towing capacity exceeds that of certain cars and trucks, but that is because hitches can often fit on many different types of tow vehicles. Always follow the auto manufacturer’s designated towing capacity to prevent damage to your vehicle.

This towing capacity chart shows towing capacity by year, make and model so it’s easy to find your vehicle’s towing capacity. When consulting this towing capacity chart, remember that passenger weight exceeding 150 lbs., optional equipment, and additional cargo should be calculated and added into the equation. Never exceed your vehicle’s towing capacity because doing so can affect your vehicle’s handling, stopping ability, or possibly even damage the drivetrain.

Depending on the make and model year of your car or truck, you may be able to find your vehicle's towing capacity on the following chart.