How To Prepare Chevrolet Equinox For Towing

By Nick Marchenko, PhD

Updated: November 12, 2023

Your Chevrolet Equinox is capable of many things. It was designed not just for commuting or carrying groceries. Your Equinox can also tow cargo, ranging from trailers to other vehicles.

While towing might seem straightforward, it imposes a significant strain on the Equinox and requires the driver to bear a great responsibility. 

Hence, prior to embarking on towing, it's crucial to aptly prepare the Equinox by installing the necessary equipment and ensuring everything is in prime condition, as this will affect your comfort and the safety of everyone on the road.

Key Takeaways

• The Chevrolet Equinox's towing capacity is influenced by various factors including engine power, transmission type, vehicle size and weight, drive type, as well as the vehicle’s design and structure.
• Thorough preparation of both the Chevrolet Equinox and the item being towed is vital, which involves inspection and adjustments of the towing equipment, visibility, brakes, engine status, fuel levels, and having emergency kits on hand.
• Adherence to specific guidelines and safety measures is necessary depending on the towed load, such as confirming that the weight is within the Equinox’s towing limits and selecting the correct towing technique.
• Extra care is necessary when towing vehicles with different transmission types; for example, vehicles with automatic transmissions may need a carriage or a tow dolly to avoid damage to the gearbox.

What is towing?

Towing involves pulling or dragging another object, like trailers, boats, or other vehicles using a Chevrolet Equinox.

To tow, you must connect a towing hitch or coupling device between the Equinox and what you intend to tow.

Can any weight be towed by a Chevrolet Equinox?

Generally, every Chevrolet Equinox model is capable of towing; the main difference lies in the weight it can manage safely and efficiently.

The towing capacity of a Chevrolet Equinox relies on several factors, such as:

Engine Capacity

The Equinox’s towing ability is dependent on its engine power and torque. More potent engines offer more torque, enabling the handling of heavier loads.

Transmission Type

The type of transmission in your Equinox, whether manual or automatic, can influence its towing capacity. Automatic transmissions often provide superior towing capabilities due to their design.

Size and Weight

Larger and heavier Equinox models typically boast greater towing capacity. Vehicles with a robust body-on-frame construction are better suited for towing heavy loads.

Drive Type

The type of drive system in the Equinox, such as FWD (Front Wheel Drive), RWD (Rear Wheel Drive), or AWD (All Wheel Drive), affects towing capacity. AWD and RWD configurations are preferable for towing due to their power distribution.

Structure and Design

The Equinox’s frame strength, along with its suspension and brake systems, significantly impacts its towing capability. Models with reinforced suspension and brakes are better equipped to handle the demands of towing.

How do you prepare a Chevrolet Equinox for towing?

Similar to an athlete before a marathon, your Chevrolet Equinox requires adequate preparation before towing.

The principles of safe towing are universal, but specific considerations vary based on what you're towing - be it a trailer or another vehicle. Keeping certain nuances in mind ensures a smooth towing experience.

Towing a trailer with a Chevrolet Equinox

Towing a trailer with a Chevrolet Equinox requires consideration of various factors to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

Understand your Chevrolet Equinox's capabilities

Each Chevrolet Equinox trim level has its specific towing limits that should not be exceeded. This includes considerations like vehicle power, chassis strength, and suspension design. Chevrolet sets these limits for your safety.

Exceeding the towing capacity can lead to:

• Component failure or damage to your Equinox;
• Reduced control and stability;
• Insufficient braking power;
• Risks of accidents and injuries.

Before towing, calculate your trailer's total weight with the load, and ensure it is within your Equinox's towing capacity. You can find your vehicle's towing capacity here.

Ensure your towing equipment is functional

Your Equinox must be properly equipped for towing. Here's a checklist:

• Towing Hitch. The hardware on your Equinox's rear for secure trailer attachment.
• Trailer Brake Controller. A device that allows you to manage the trailer's brakes from within the Equinox for safer towing.
• Towing chain. This secures the connection between your vehicle and the trailer.

All equipment should be in top condition, free from damage or excessive wear.

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Adjust and check mirrors

Visibility is key. Ensure your Equinox's mirrors are properly adjusted and functional. Special towing mirrors are recommended for a wider view.

Inspect the braking system

Brakes are crucial, especially when towing. They should be capable of handling the extra load. Service your brakes, checking:

• Pad condition;
• Rotor and/or drum condition;
• Brake fluid quality.

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Verify headlight functionality

Good lighting is vital for safe towing. Your Equinox's headlights must provide clear visibility at all times.

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Ensure tail lights are working

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It's essential not only to see but also to be seen. Check your Equinox's parking lights, brake lights, and indicators for functionality.

Examine the engine's condition

Towing puts extra demands on your engine. Ensure it operates smoothly, with no unusual noises or signs of trouble. Before towing, service your engine by:

• Changing oil and filter;
• Checking coolant levels and condition;
• Inspecting spark plugs; / glow plugs for diesel engines.

Inspect the suspension system

The suspension also bears significant stress when towing. A failure here can be disastrous. Therefore, check and service your suspension before you set off.

Inspect the gearbox

Towing can take a toll on the gearbox of your Chevrolet Equinox, causing it to heat up and potentially fail if not properly managed. To avoid overloading, always check and, if necessary, replace the lubricant in the gearbox with a high-quality alternative suitable for your vehicle.

Plan for increased fuel consumption

Due to the extra weight, towing with your Equinox may lead to an increase in fuel consumption by 10-20%. It's advisable to start with a full tank, plan refueling stops accordingly, and consider carrying extra fuel cans.

Toolkit essentials

It's essential to keep a set of tools in your Equinox when towing. Wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, and any specialized tools for your towing setup should be included for handling unexpected situations on the road.

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Mandatory First Aid Kit

A comprehensive first aid kit should be a staple in your Equinox, especially when towing. Ensure it's stocked with bandages, antiseptic, pain relief, and any other essentials to deal with potential accidents or injuries.

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Securing cargo correctly

Properly securing cargo on a carriage or open platform is non-negotiable. Use cables or straps to prevent the load from shifting, thus minimizing accident risks and ensuring safety for all road users.

Adopt correct loading techniques to maintain balance and stability of your towed cargo.

Checking your trailer's technical condition

The condition of the trailer is as important as the condition of your Equinox when it comes to towing safety.

Before setting out, consider the following checklist:

• Inspect the trailer brakes. Avoid using trailers without a braking system. The extra weight can be too much for your Equinox alone. Trailer brakes should work in tandem with your vehicle's brakes for added safety.
• Examine the trailer suspension. Look for any signs of damage or wear on the trailer's suspension components, and ensure everything is securely fastened and aligned for a stable tow.
• Verify trailer lighting. Functional trailer lights are a safety requirement. Check all lights and replace any that are not working to ensure clear communication with other drivers.
• Check the trailer hitch. The hitch's condition is critical for a secure connection to your Equinox. Inspect it for wear or damage and ensure it's well-lubricated and securely fastened.

Towing a Car

If you're planning to tow with your Chevrolet Equinox, it's crucial to adhere to the guidelines outlined above. There are also specific considerations to keep in mind when towing another vehicle, which are vital for safety.

It's essential that the car you are towing does not exceed the towing capacity of your Equinox. You can find the maximum towing capacity in your vehicle’s manual. Surpassing the recommended limits can negatively affect braking, steering, and put undue strain on the engine and transmission.

When planning to tow, take into account the weight of both your Equinox and the car you intend to tow, including any cargo and passengers.

Choose your towing method

There are three common methods to tow another vehicle:

• Using a tow strap;
• Using a tow bar;
• Using a trailer;

Using a tow strap

When towing with a tow strap, the towed vehicle must have operational brakes, and someone must be present to steer and brake. This is necessary as the towed car cannot stop on its own.

Using a tow bar

With this method, the towed car is securely attached to your Equinox using a tow bar, allowing both vehicles to move in unison. This method doesn't require a driver in the towed car, but it does place extra stress on the Equinox's braking system.

Using a trailer

The safest way to tow is using a trailer. The vehicle is secured on the trailer, which is then hitched to your Equinox. Remember to include both the weight of the towed car and the trailer when calculating the total towing capacity.

Transmission type of the towed vehicle

It's important to know the type of transmission in the vehicle you're towing. For manual transmissions, ensure the gear lever is in neutral. For automatic transmissions, use a trailer or tow dolly. Remember that the drive wheels of an automatic car must not rotate as this can damage the transmission.

If a trailer isn't available and you must tow an automatic car, it's advised to disconnect the driveshaft to prevent transmission movement.

Additional Equipment for Optimized Towing with Chevrolet Equinox

We've covered essential tips for towing preparation. If you're looking to further equip your Chevrolet Equinox for towing and extend its service life, consider installing the following upgrades:

Weight-Distributing Hitch

For the Equinox, a weight-distributing hitch is crucial for balancing the load. It prevents too much weight from pressing down on the rear axle, which can affect steering and stability.

This type of hitch will distribute the trailer weight evenly across the Equinox's axles, which is particularly beneficial when towing heavier loads, ensuring a balanced and stable ride.

Towing Mirrors

Extended mirrors enhance your field of view, making them a vital addition for towing with your Equinox. They help you keep an eye on your trailer and the traffic, minimizing blind spots.

Suspension Air Bags

Adding suspension airbags to your Equinox helps maintain alignment and a comfortable ride while towing. They prevent the rear of the vehicle from sagging under heavy loads, protecting your suspension components.

Transmission Cooler

Installing a transmission cooler is key for your Equinox, especially when towing regularly. It helps in keeping the transmission fluid cool, ensuring the longevity of your transmission system.

Rearview Cameras

Rearview cameras are invaluable for towing, aiding in maneuvering in tight spaces and hitching up a trailer. They're a smart safety feature that reduces blind spots significantly.

Roof Rails

Roof rails add versatility to your Equinox's cargo-carrying capabilities. They are ideal for securing additional gear for your adventures without taking up space inside your vehicle.

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Concluding Your Towing Prep

Proper preparation ensures a safe and efficient towing experience with your Chevrolet Equinox. From technical checks and load management to the right accessories, each step contributes to a smoother journey.

Remember, enhancing your towing setup not only increases safety but also prolongs the service life of your vehicle and trailer, making towing a reliable choice for transport and travel.