2019 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity – Maximize Your Hauling

The 2019 Chevrolet Traverse offers versatile towing capabilities for families and adventurers alike. Understanding its limits and proper setup is crucial for safely hauling everything from utility trailers to small campers, ensuring a smooth journey every time. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to tow confidently with your Traverse.

Are you a proud owner of a 2019 Chevrolet Traverse, eager to expand its utility beyond family road trips and daily commutes? Perhaps you’re eyeing a small boat, a utility trailer for DIY projects, or even a lightweight travel trailer for weekend getaways. Unlocking your Traverse’s full potential means understanding its towing capabilities.

Many owners wonder precisely what their SUV can handle. This comprehensive guide from EngineNeeds will demystify the 2019 chevrolet traverse towing capacity, helping you haul with confidence and ensuring every journey is both safe and enjoyable. We’ll cover everything from the basic specs to essential equipment and crucial safety tips.

Understanding the 2019 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity

The 2019 Chevrolet Traverse is a popular mid-size SUV, known for its spacious interior and comfortable ride. Its towing capabilities vary primarily based on the engine and whether it’s equipped with the factory-installed trailering package.

Knowing these specifications is the first step toward safe and effective hauling.

Standard Towing Capacity Without the Trailering Package

Most 2019 Traverse models come standard with a respectable towing capacity right off the lot. If your Traverse does not have the optional trailering package, you can typically expect a maximum towing capacity of:

• 1,500 pounds (680 kg)

This capacity is suitable for very light loads. Think small utility trailers, a jet ski, or perhaps a lightweight pop-up camper without any heavy gear inside. Always double-check your owner’s manual for the exact figure for your specific trim and configuration.

Enhanced Towing Capacity with the Trailering Package

For those looking to tow more substantial loads, the 2019 Chevrolet Traverse offers an optional trailering package. This package is a game-changer, significantly boosting the SUV’s hauling capability.

When equipped with the trailering package, the 2019 Traverse’s towing capacity increases to an impressive:

• 5,000 pounds (2,268 kg)

This enhanced capacity opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to tow larger utility trailers, small to medium travel trailers, certain boat types, or even a car dolly with a compact car. The trailering package typically includes a heavy-duty cooling system and a factory-installed trailer hitch, which are vital components for safe, sustained towing.

Key Factors Affecting Your Traverse’s Towing Performance

While the stated 2019 Chevrolet Traverse towing capacity gives you a maximum limit, several other factors influence how much you can actually tow safely and efficiently.

Ignoring these can lead to vehicle damage, unsafe driving conditions, or even accidents.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)

The GVWR is the maximum permissible weight of your fully loaded Traverse, including the vehicle itself, passengers, cargo, and the tongue weight of the trailer. Never exceed this rating.

It’s crucial for maintaining vehicle stability and braking performance.

Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)

The GCWR is the maximum allowable weight of the fully loaded Traverse and the attached trailer. This is the absolute upper limit for your entire setup.

Exceeding the GCWR puts immense strain on your engine, transmission, and braking system.

Tongue Weight

Tongue weight is the downward force exerted by the trailer coupler onto the hitch ball of your Traverse. For safe towing, the tongue weight should generally be 10-15% of the total loaded trailer weight.

Too little tongue weight can cause trailer sway, while too much can overload your Traverse’s rear axle and reduce steering control. A quality tongue weight scale is a wise investment for frequent haulers.

Payload Capacity

Your Traverse’s payload capacity is the maximum amount of weight you can safely carry inside the vehicle, including passengers, cargo, and the trailer’s tongue weight. This is often overlooked but critical.

Check the sticker on your driver’s side door jamb for your specific vehicle’s payload rating.

Engine and Drivetrain

The 2019 Traverse typically comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, offering ample power for its towing capabilities. However, continuous heavy towing, especially in hilly terrain or hot weather, can stress even a robust engine.

An automatic transmission is standard, and ensuring its fluid is in good condition is vital for longevity when towing.

Essential Equipment for Safe Towing with Your 2019 Traverse

Having the right gear is just as important as knowing your limits. Proper equipment ensures safety, stability, and compliance with regulations.

Don’t skimp on these critical components.

Trailer Hitch and Ball

Ensure your Traverse has a properly installed Class III or IV trailer hitch, especially if you plan to utilize the 5,000-pound capacity. The hitch receiver size will dictate the hitch ball size you need.

Always use a hitch ball with a weight rating that exceeds your maximum trailer weight.

Wiring Harness

A functional wiring harness is essential for powering your trailer’s brake lights, turn signals, and running lights. Most Traverse models with the trailering package will have this pre-installed.

If not, an aftermarket harness can be installed, but it’s best left to a professional to ensure correct electrical connections.

Trailer Brakes and Controller

For trailers weighing over 1,000 pounds (some states mandate them for 1,500 pounds or more), independent trailer brakes are highly recommended, if not legally required. These brakes are crucial for stopping power.

A trailer brake controller installed in your Traverse allows you to manually or automatically apply the trailer brakes, greatly enhancing safety and control.

Weight Distribution Hitch (WDH)

For trailers approaching the upper limit of the 2019 chevrolet traverse towing capacity, or those with significant tongue weight, a weight distribution hitch is invaluable. A WDH helps to distribute the tongue weight more evenly across all axles of both the tow vehicle and the trailer.

This reduces sag in the Traverse’s rear, improves steering and braking, and minimizes trailer sway. It’s a “pro” tip for a reason – it makes a huge difference in handling.

Mirrors and Safety Chains

Extended towing mirrors can greatly improve visibility around your trailer, especially if it’s wider than your Traverse. Always use safety chains, crisscrossing them under the trailer tongue, to act as a backup if the primary hitch connection fails.

These simple items are non-negotiable safety features.

Preparing Your 2019 Chevrolet Traverse for Towing: A Step-by-Step Guide

Before you hit the road, a thorough pre-towing inspection and setup are critical. This isn’t just about safety; it’s about protecting your investment and ensuring a smooth trip.

Take the time to do it right every time.

Pre-Towing Checklist: Your Road to Confidence

Here’s a practical checklist to go through before every towing adventure. This ensures your 2019 Chevrolet Traverse and trailer are ready for the journey ahead.

1. Check Tire Pressure: Ensure your Traverse’s tires are inflated to the recommended pressure for towing (often higher than normal driving, consult your owner’s manual). Don’t forget the trailer tires and the spare.
2. Inspect Lights: Test all trailer lights (brake, turn signals, running lights) and your Traverse’s lights. A malfunctioning light is a safety hazard and a potential ticket.
3. Verify Fluid Levels: Check engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and brake fluid levels. Towing puts extra strain on these systems. Refer to your owner’s manual for proper fluid types and fill levels. For detailed specs on other Chevrolet models, you might find useful information in our guide on 2019 Chevrolet Suburban Specs.
4. Secure the Hitch Connection: Ensure the trailer coupler is fully seated and locked onto the hitch ball. Insert the safety pin or clip.
5. Attach Safety Chains: Crisscross the safety chains under the trailer tongue and attach them to your Traverse’s hitch receiver. Ensure there’s enough slack for turns but not so much they drag.
6. Connect Breakaway Cable: If your trailer has electric brakes, connect the breakaway cable to a secure point on your Traverse, not the hitch chains. This cable applies trailer brakes if the trailer detaches.
7. Adjust Mirrors: Adjust your side mirrors and, if installed, your extended towing mirrors, to give you a clear view along both sides of the trailer and the road behind.
8. Load the Trailer Properly: Distribute weight evenly, with approximately 60% of the cargo weight in the front half of the trailer. Secure all items inside the trailer to prevent shifting.
9. Test Trailer Brakes: If you have a brake controller, test the trailer brakes independently before driving. You should feel the trailer slowing down.
10. Check Wheel Lug Nuts: Give the lug nuts on both your Traverse and the trailer a quick check with a torque wrench to ensure they are properly tightened. Vibration can loosen them over time.

Loading Your Trailer Correctly

Proper trailer loading is paramount for stability. Aim for 10-15% of the total trailer weight as tongue weight. Too much weight in the rear can cause dangerous sway, while too much up front can overload your Traverse’s rear suspension.

Use a tongue weight scale to verify your setup. Always secure cargo to prevent shifting during transit.

Safe Towing Practices and Driving Tips

Towing fundamentally changes how your 2019 Chevrolet Traverse handles. Adjusting your driving habits is crucial for safety.

Patience and vigilance are your best allies.

Adjusting Your Driving Style

• Slower Speeds: Reduce your speed, especially on highways and in windy conditions. Higher speeds amplify any trailer sway.
• Increased Following Distance: Your combined rig is much heavier and takes longer to stop. Leave significantly more space between you and the vehicle ahead.
• Wider Turns: Trailers cut corners. Make wider turns to avoid hitting curbs, signs, or other vehicles.
• Anticipate Braking: Begin braking earlier and more gradually than usual. Use your trailer brake controller to help slow the load smoothly.
• Avoid Sudden Movements: Sudden steering inputs, acceleration, or braking can lead to loss of control, especially with a heavy trailer.

Monitoring Your Vehicle

Keep a close eye on your Traverse’s gauges. Watch the engine temperature, transmission temperature (if your model displays it), and oil pressure. Overheating is a common issue when towing heavy loads.

If you notice any warning lights or unusual behavior, pull over safely and investigate. Don’t push it.

Dealing with Trailer Sway

If you experience trailer sway, remain calm. Do not hit the brakes hard on your Traverse. Instead, apply the trailer brakes manually with your brake controller (if equipped) to help straighten the trailer. Reduce speed gradually and maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel.

If sway persists, pull over safely and re-evaluate your load distribution and tongue weight.

Parking and Backing Up

Parking with a trailer requires extra space and careful planning. Always try to pull through spaces if possible. Backing up a trailer can be tricky; practice in an empty lot until you’re comfortable.

Remember, the trailer moves in the opposite direction of your steering wheel initially.

Maintaining Your Traverse for Optimal Towing Longevity

Towing puts additional stress on your vehicle’s components. Regular and diligent maintenance is key to ensuring your 2019 Chevrolet Traverse remains a reliable tow vehicle for years to come.

Prevention is always better than repair.

Frequent Fluid Checks and Changes

Beyond standard oil changes, pay extra attention to your transmission fluid. Towing generates more heat, which can break down transmission fluid faster. Consider more frequent transmission fluid changes if you tow regularly.

Also, ensure your coolant system is in top shape; a heavy-duty cooling system (part of the trailering package) helps immensely.

Brake System Inspection

Your brakes work harder when stopping a combined load. Regularly inspect your brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid. Replace worn components promptly.

A spongy brake pedal or grinding noises are clear indicators that service is needed.

Tire Health

Beyond pressure, inspect your tires for uneven wear, cracks, or bulges. Proper tire tread is essential for grip, especially when carrying heavy loads or braking. Rotate your tires according to your maintenance schedule.

Consider upgrading to light truck (LT) tires if you tow very frequently, as they offer greater load capacity and durability.

Suspension Components

Heavy towing can put a strain on your Traverse’s suspension. Periodically check shocks, struts, and springs for signs of wear or damage. Excessive sag in the rear when unloaded could indicate worn components.

A healthy suspension contributes significantly to stability and ride comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions About 2019 Chevrolet Traverse Towing Capacity

What is the maximum 2019 chevrolet traverse towing capacity?

The maximum towing capacity for a 2019 Chevrolet Traverse is 5,000 pounds (2,268 kg) when equipped with the optional factory-installed trailering package. Without this package, the capacity is typically 1,500 pounds (680 kg).

Does my 2019 Traverse have the trailering package?

You can usually check your owner’s manual or the vehicle’s original window sticker. Look for a factory-installed trailer hitch receiver and potentially a heavy-duty cooling system or specific tow/haul mode features. If you’re unsure, a Chevrolet dealership can confirm based on your VIN.

Can I add a trailer hitch to my 2019 Traverse if it didn’t come with one?

Yes, you can install an aftermarket trailer hitch. However, without the factory trailering package (which includes a heavy-duty cooling system and other enhancements), your towing capacity will remain at 1,500 pounds, regardless of the hitch strength. It’s crucial not to exceed this lower limit.

What kind of trailers can a 2019 Traverse with 5,000 lbs capacity tow?

With the 5,000-pound capacity, you can tow a variety of trailers, including small to medium travel trailers, pop-up campers, utility trailers with ATVs or motorcycles, small boat trailers, or a car dolly with a compact vehicle. Always ensure the loaded trailer weight, including cargo, stays within the 5,000-pound limit.

Is a weight distribution hitch necessary for the 2019 Traverse?

While not always strictly “necessary” for lighter loads, a weight distribution hitch is highly recommended for trailers approaching the 5,000-pound limit or those with significant tongue weight. It greatly improves stability, handling, and braking performance, making for a much safer and more comfortable towing experience.

Conclusion

The 2019 Chevrolet Traverse is a highly capable SUV that can confidently handle a range of towing tasks, especially when properly equipped with the trailering package. Understanding its 2019 chevrolet traverse towing capacity, along with critical factors like tongue weight and payload, is the foundation for safe hauling.

Always prioritize safety by performing thorough pre-towing checks, using appropriate equipment, and adjusting your driving style. With careful planning and adherence to these guidelines, your Traverse will reliably get you and your gear to your destination. Remember, when in doubt, consult your owner’s manual or a certified automotive professional.

Stay safe and enjoy your adventures!