Towing Capacity Calculator
Check whether your vehicle can safely tow a trailer — trailer weight vs rating, tongue weight, payload and the combined weight limit.
How to use
- 1Enter your vehicle's ratings from the door-jamb sticker and manual: towing capacity, GCWR and payload.
- 2Enter the loaded trailer weight and the passengers and cargo in the vehicle.
How it's calculated
Tongue weight ≈ 10–15% of trailer weight (10% used). Payload used = passengers + cargo + tongue weight. Combined = vehicle curb weight + payload + trailer ≤ GCWR. Many experts suggest staying under 80% of the towing capacity.
Frequently asked questions
Why does tongue weight matter?
Too little tongue weight makes a trailer sway; too much overloads the rear axle. 10–15% of the trailer's weight is typical for conventional hitches.
Where do I find my ratings?
The tire and loading sticker on the driver's door jamb, the owner's manual and the hitch label. Use the lowest limit that applies.
Why the 80% rule?
A margin helps on hills, in wind and when braking. Towing at the maximum rating is legal but leaves no room for error.