How to increase the towing capacity of a vehicle?

Mid-sized cars, SUVs, Pickup trucks, vans, and other vehicles are capable of towing. The manufacturer determines the maximum towing capacity of their vehicle products and offers towing guidelines to the customers.

Talking about the maximum towing capacity, your vehicle is certified by the manufacturer company with the maximum rated capacity. For instance, the towing capacity of the 2022 Ford F-150 ranges from 8,200 lbs to 14,000 lbs. The maximum towing capacity of 14,000 lbs is obtained when the F-150 is equipped with a powerful engine, and max tow packages.

Can you increase the towing capacity of your vehicle? Let’s discuss this question in detail.

The vehicles with towing capability are certified for maximum towing capacity. It is not recommended to exceed the max rated capacity as it may seriously damage your vehicle. Manufacturers advise customers to carefully review the owner’s manual before using their vehicles for towing purposes.

You can increase the towing capacity of your vehicle only if the manufacturer approves doing so. There are certain vehicles that offer higher towing capacity only when equipped with approved towing equipment, and max trailer tow packages.

For example, the 2022 Dodge Durango offers a maximum towing capacity of 7,400 lbs. But, you can get a maximum capacity of 8,700 lbs with the Durango RT model equipped with the Tow N Go Package.

Likewise, the 2022 Ford F150 can offer a maximum towing capacity of 14,000 lbs when powered by the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine and equipped with a Max Trailer Tow Package. The tow package includes Available Trailer Brake Controller, Available Pro Trailer Backup Assist, Trailer Reverse Guidance, Blind Spot Information Systems (BLIS), Standard Hill Assist, Standard Tow/Haul Mode, and Standard Trailer Sway Control.

So, the towing capacity of your vehicle can only be increased if it is verified for maximum rated towing capacity.

How to increase the towing capacity of a vehicle?

As we discussed above, the towing capacity of your vehicle can only be increased if it is recommended by the manufacturer. 

For instance, you can get a towing capacity ranging from 8,200 lbs to 14,000 lbs with the 2022 Ford F-150. To get the maximum towing capacity, you need to choose the F-150 SuperCab 8’ box (4 x 2 configuration) or SuperCrew (4 x 2 configuration) that is equipped with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine, and available with Max Trailer Tow Package.

It is not recommended to modify your vehicle for obtaining maximum towing capacity as it may damage your vehicle, and nullify your warranty.

There is a common practice of using a programmer, replacing axles, upgrading the braking system, installing a bigger radiator, upgrading the suspension, and modifying vehicles to increase the towing capacity. Such activities might increase the towing capacity of your vehicle however, there are chances of substantial damage if the modifications are carried out unprofessionally.

Using your vehicle for towing purposes most of the time may increase stress, and shorten your vehicle’s life. Likewise, upgrading your vehicle for additional towing capacity may increase strain on the suspension and braking systems.

Reduction of suspension control, vehicle handling issues, and wheel alignment issues are common due to the misconfiguration of your vehicle.

That’s why it is always recommended to strictly follow the towing guidelines, and never exceed the maximum towing capacity of your vehicle. If you do so, your vehicle will be safe, and its lifespan also increases.

Conclusion

The towing capacity of your vehicle is specified by the manufacturer. The maximum rated towing capacity is only obtained when the vehicle is equipped with a powerful engine and authentic trailer tow packages.

It is not recommended to modify your vehicle’s appearance to obtain maximum towing capacity as it may create substantial damage. Customers must carefully review the owner’s manual before purchasing or using their vehicle for towing purposes.

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Stellan Carter is an accomplished writer, entrepreneur, and avid Ford Raptor owner. As a co-founder and content contributor for this renowned blog website, Stellan brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the automotive industry. When he's not behind the wheel of his beloved Ford Raptor, Stellan can be found exploring new terrains, capturing the essence of his automotive adventures through his camera lens.

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