2015 Chevrolet Equinox Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2015 Chevrolet Equinox can tow a maximum of 3,500 pounds when properly equipped with the available 3.6L V6 engine and towing package. This capacity allows the Equinox to handle small travel trailers, pop-up campers, and utility trailers with ease, making it a versatile choice for a compact SUV.

Quick Answer: 2015 Equinox Towing Specs

• Maximum Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs (V6) / 1,500 lbs (4-Cylinder)
• Maximum Payload Capacity: ~1,100 - 1,215 lbs (varies by trim)
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): ~4,960 - 5,346 lbs
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): Up to 7,496 lbs (V6 models)
• Curb Weight: 3,758 - 4,224 lbs
• Hitch Receiver Class: Class II (for V6 Tow Package)

Tow Ratings by Engine & Trim

The towing capacity of the 2015 Equinox is entirely dependent on the engine choice. The standard 2.4L four-cylinder is suitable for light-duty tasks, while the optional 3.6L V6 unlocks the vehicle's full towing potential. All ratings listed are SAE J2807 compliant.

Note: Payload and towing capacity are mutually exclusive. The weight of passengers and cargo in the vehicle reduces the amount you can safely tow. Always verify your vehicle's specific ratings on the driver's side door-jamb sticker.

Tow Package Contents

To achieve the maximum 3,500-pound tow rating, the 2015 Equinox must be equipped with the factory Trailering Package (RPO code V92), which was available on LT and LTZ trims with the 3.6L V6 engine. This package includes:

• 3,500-pound trailer hitch: A frame-mounted Class II hitch receiver.
• Heavy-Duty Engine Cooling System: This helps the engine manage the extra heat generated during towing to prevent overheating.

It is important to note what is not included:

• Integrated Trailer Brake Controller: The Equinox does not come with a factory-integrated brake controller. However, one is legally required in many states for trailers weighing over 1,500-2,000 pounds. An aftermarket controller must be installed to safely tow trailers equipped with their own electric brakes.
• 7-Pin Wiring Connector: The factory package typically includes a standard 4-pin connector for basic trailer lighting. To connect to a trailer with electric brakes, you will need to install a 7-pin wiring harness adapter.
• Trailer Sway Control: This feature is integrated into the Equinox's standard StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control system. It can detect trailer sway and selectively apply the vehicle's brakes and reduce engine torque to help bring the trailer back under control.

5th-Wheel & Gooseneck Towing

Fifth-wheel and gooseneck towing are not possible with the Chevrolet Equinox. These towing methods are designed exclusively for heavy-duty pickup trucks with beds that can accommodate the specialized hitch and support the heavy pin weight of these larger trailers.

Weight Distribution & WDH Requirements

Using a weight distribution hitch (WDH) is highly recommended and often required when towing trailers that approach the Equinox's maximum capacity. A WDH helps to level the vehicle and trailer combination by distributing a portion of the trailer's tongue weight from the rear axle of the Equinox to the front axle and the trailer's axle.

This distribution provides several benefits:

• Improved Steering and Braking: By keeping the front wheels firmly planted, a WDH maintains proper steering control and braking performance.
• Reduced Rear Sag: It prevents the rear of the Equinox from sagging, which can aim your headlights too high and compromise handling.
• Better Ride Comfort: It helps to reduce the bouncing and porpoising motion that can occur when towing heavy loads.

For the V6 Equinox, a WDH is recommended for any trailer weighing over 2,000 pounds. Always ensure the WDH is properly sized and adjusted for your specific vehicle and trailer combination.

Real-World Towing Tips for the 2015 Equinox

1. Respect the V6: While the V6 has a respectable 3,500-pound rating, it's best to keep your trailer's loaded weight (GVWR) around 80% of that limit (approx. 2,800 lbs) for a more comfortable and safer towing experience, especially in hills or windy conditions.
2. Monitor Tongue Weight: Ensure your trailer's tongue weight is 10-15% of the total trailer weight. For a 3,000-pound trailer, this means 300-450 pounds on the hitch. The Equinox's hitch is rated for a maximum of 350 pounds tongue weight.
3. Use Tow/Haul Mode: The 6-speed automatic transmission in V6 models features a Tow/Haul mode. Engage this to adjust the transmission's shift points, holding gears longer to prevent "hunting" and provide better engine braking on downgrades.
4. Check Your Tires: Inflate the tires on both the Equinox and the trailer to the pressures recommended by the manufacturer for towing. Check this on the vehicle's door placard and the trailer's data plate.

Common Towing-Related Issues

Owners who tow with the 2015 Equinox, particularly those pushing the limits, should be aware of potential issues. The 6T70 transmission in V6 models can be prone to overheating or premature wear if not properly maintained, especially when towing heavy loads frequently without the factory cooling package. Regularly servicing the transmission fluid is critical. Additionally, rear suspension components and wheel bearings may experience accelerated wear due to the added stress of towing.

Always consult your owner's manual and the specific certification sticker on your vehicle before towing. Find a trusted shop on Repairius for any of your towing setup or maintenance needs.