2021 GMC Acadia: Towing Capacity & Payload
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The 2021 GMC Acadia can tow up to 4,000 pounds when properly equipped with the available 3.6L V6 engine and the factory trailering package.
Quick answer
- Max Towing Capacity: 4,000 lbs
- Max Payload: 2,136 lbs
- GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 6,173 lbs
- GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating): 8,600 lbs
- Curb Weight: 4,037 to 4,455 lbs
- Hitch Class: Class III
Tow ratings by engine & trim
| Engine | Drivetrain | Trim/Package | Max Tow | Payload |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5L 4-Cylinder | FWD | SL, SLE | 1,000 lbs | 2,136 lbs |
| 2.0L Turbo 4-Cylinder | FWD/AWD | SLE, SLT | 3,300 lbs | 2,055 lbs |
| 3.6L V6 | FWD/AWD | SLT, AT4, Denali | 4,000 lbs | 1,592 lbs |
Tow package contents
The available trailering package for the 2021 GMC Acadia includes:
- Factory-installed Class III hitch receiver
- 7-pin wiring harness
- Heavy-duty cooling system (V92)
Weight distribution & WDH requirements
For trailers over 1,000 pounds, a weight distribution hitch is recommended. A WDH helps to distribute the tongue weight of the trailer more evenly across the axles of the vehicle and trailer, which can improve stability and control. The maximum tongue weight for the 2021 GMC Acadia is 600 pounds.
Real-world towing tips for this vehicle
- Use Tow/Haul mode: This mode adjusts the transmission shift points to keep the engine in its powerband, which can help to improve performance and fuel economy when towing.
- Be mindful of your speed: The maximum recommended towing speed is 55 mph.
- Allow for extra stopping distance: The extra weight of the trailer will increase your stopping distance, so be sure to leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front of you.
- Check your tire pressure: Be sure to check the tire pressure of both your vehicle and trailer before each trip. The correct tire pressure can be found on the driver's side doorjamb of your vehicle and on the trailer's certification label.
Common towing-related issues
Some common towing-related issues with the 2021 GMC Acadia include:
- Transmission overheating: This can be caused by towing a trailer that is too heavy or by not using Tow/Haul mode.
- Trailer sway: This can be caused by a number of factors, including improper weight distribution, crosswinds, and high speeds.
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More specs for the 2021 GMC Acadia
Oil Capacity & Filter
Capacity, weight, filter PN, drain plug torque, change interval.
Fluid Type Specs
Engine oil, coolant, ATF, diff, brake, PS, DEF — with OEM spec numbers.
Coolant Capacity & Type
Total system capacity, OEM coolant spec, flush interval, bleed tips.
Transmission Fluid & Service
Trans model, fluid spec, capacity, filter PN, service interval.
Torque Specifications
Lug nuts, drain plug, caliper, axle nut, plug, key fasteners.
Brake Pad & Rotor Specs
Pad PNs, rotor size, min thickness, caliper torque.
Tire Size & Pressure
OEM size, cold psi, bolt pattern, wheel size, TPMS.
Battery Size & Group
Group size, CCA, AGM/flooded, dimensions, reset note.
A/C Refrigerant & Oil
R-134a or R-1234yf, charge oz, PAG oil spec.
Bulb Sizes (Headlight, Tail, Fog)
Headlight, fog, tail, turn, reverse, interior.
Factory Maintenance Schedule
Service intervals by mileage, severe-duty notes, known issues.
Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage
Fuse box locations, layout, amps, and what each fuse controls.
Serpentine Belt Routing & Length
Belt routing, length, rib count, OEM + aftermarket PNs.
Wheel Alignment Specifications
Camber, caster, toe ranges (front & rear), adjustability notes.
Paint Color Codes
All factory colors with paint codes, sticker location, touch-up tips.
Wiper Blade Sizes
Driver/passenger/rear blade size, attachment, OEM + cross-refs.
Spark Plug Type & Gap
Plug PN, gap, torque, interval by engine.
Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios
Trans gear ratios, axle ratios, RPO codes, tow vs MPG impact.
Key Fob Programming
DIY programming steps, FCC ID, fob PN, battery, transponder.
Same spec — other model years
Maintenance & repair guides
2021 GMC Acadia Maintenance Schedule →
Available maintenance guidance; confirm the manufacturer schedule.
Repair planning references →
Plan the scope of work; detailed procedures need configuration-matched evidence.
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