2024 Honda CR-V Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2024 Honda CR-V can tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped.

Quick answer

• Max Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs
• Max Payload Capacity: 1,033–1,137 lbs
• GVWR: 4,370–4,630 lbs
• GCWR: 5,870–6,130 lbs
• Curb Weight: 3,472–3,898 lbs
• Hitch Class: Class I (Honda recommends a maximum tongue weight of 150 lbs)

Tow ratings by engine & trim

The 2024 Honda CR-V offers two powertrain options: a conventional gasoline engine and a hybrid powertrain. Both options have the same maximum towing capacity.

Note: Honda officially rates the non-hybrid 1.5L Turbo I4 models for towing. While hybrid models share structural components, Honda does not provide a specific towing capacity rating for the hybrid powertrains in the 2024 CR-V lineup. Owners of hybrid models should consult their owner's manual and local Honda dealership for specific recommendations and limitations regarding towing.

Tow package contents

For the 2024 Honda CR-V, there isn't a traditional, factory-installed "tow package" as you might find on larger trucks or SUVs that includes a transmission cooler or integrated brake controller. Instead, towing accessories are typically offered as dealer-installed options:

• Trailer Hitch Receiver: A Class I hitch is available, designed for a 1.25-inch receiver, with a maximum tongue weight of 150 pounds.
• Trailer Hitch Harness: This wiring harness provides the necessary electrical connection for trailer lights (stop, turn, and tail lights).
• Trailer Hitch Ball: Available in various sizes to match your trailer coupler.

Important Considerations:

• Transmission Cooler: The 2024 Honda CR-V is not typically equipped with an auxiliary transmission cooler for towing purposes from the factory. For frequent or heavy towing (even within the 1,500 lb limit), monitoring transmission temperatures and potentially considering an aftermarket cooler is advisable, though not always necessary for the CR-V's modest capacity.
• Integrated Brake Controller: An integrated trailer brake controller is not available from the factory or as a dealer-installed option for the 2024 CR-V. If your trailer has its own braking system, an aftermarket brake controller will be required.
• Trailer Sway Control: The 2024 Honda CR-V comes with Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), which includes a Trailer Stability Assist feature. This system can help detect and mitigate trailer sway by applying individual brakes and/or reducing engine power.
• 7-Pin Connector: The optional trailer hitch harness typically provides a 4-pin flat connector for basic trailer lighting. If your trailer requires a 7-pin connector for auxiliary power, reverse lights, and/or trailer brakes, an adapter will be necessary, along with the installation of an aftermarket brake controller for trailer brakes.

5th-wheel & gooseneck

The 2024 Honda CR-V is a compact SUV and is not equipped to handle 5th-wheel or gooseneck trailers. These types of trailers require heavy-duty truck frames and specialized hitch setups, far exceeding the CR-V's design and capacity.

Weight distribution & WDH requirements

For the 2024 Honda CR-V, with its relatively low maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds and a recommended maximum tongue weight of 150 pounds, a weight distribution hitch (WDH) is generally not required or recommended.

Weight distribution hitches are primarily used for heavier loads that approach or exceed a vehicle's maximum tongue weight and/or gross vehicle weight rating, to help distribute weight more evenly across the vehicle's axles and the trailer's axles. Exceeding the 150-pound tongue weight limit, even with a WDH, is not advisable for the CR-V.

Always ensure your trailer's tongue weight (the downward force exerted on the hitch ball) falls within the CR-V's recommended 150-pound limit. Overloading the tongue can negatively impact steering, braking, and overall vehicle stability.

Real-world towing tips for this vehicle

• Stay within Limits: Never exceed the 1,500-pound maximum towing capacity or the 150-pound maximum tongue weight. This is paramount for safety and to prevent damage to your vehicle.
• Know Your Trailer Weight: Always weigh your loaded trailer before heading out. Don't guess. Include the weight of all cargo, water, and accessories on the trailer.
• Check Tire Pressure: Ensure both your CR-V's tires and your trailer's tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressures for towing, typically found in your owner's manual or on a sticker inside the driver's door jamb.
• Distribute Cargo Properly: Load your trailer to achieve the recommended tongue weight (10-15% of the total trailer weight) and ensure cargo is secured to prevent shifting during transit.
• Brake Sooner: With the added weight of a trailer, your CR-V will take longer to stop. Leave extra space between your vehicle and others, and begin braking earlier than usual.
• Accelerate Gently: Smooth acceleration will prevent excessive strain on the engine and transmission.
• Use Lower Gear Ranges: When towing, select lower gear ranges on inclines or descents to maintain better control and reduce transmission strain. Avoid continuous high-speed towing, especially in hot weather.
• Plan Your Route: Avoid steep grades and rough terrain if possible. Factor in extra time for your journey.
• Perform Pre-Trip Checks: Before each trip, verify that all lights on the trailer are working, the hitch connection is secure, safety chains are crossed and attached, and mirrors provide adequate visibility.

Common towing-related issues

Given the CR-V's modest towing capacity, most issues arise from exceeding its limits or improper setup:

• Overheating: While not common for light loads, sustained towing up steep grades or in hot climates can potentially lead to transmission or engine overheating if the limits are pushed.
• Reduced Braking Performance: The CR-V's braking system is designed for the vehicle's unladen weight. Towing adds significant stress, leading to longer stopping distances and increased brake wear.
• Excessive Suspension Sag: Overloading the tongue weight can cause the rear of the vehicle to sag, negatively impacting handling, headlight aim, and tire wear.
• Poor Handling and Stability: An improperly loaded trailer (too much or too little tongue weight) or exceeding the weight limits can lead to trailer sway, making the vehicle difficult to control.
• Transmission Strain: Repeatedly towing at the upper limits, especially without proper maintenance, can put extra strain on the continuously variable transmission (CVT) and potentially shorten its lifespan.

Always consult your 2024 Honda CR-V owner's manual for the most accurate and detailed information regarding towing, capacities, and safety guidelines.

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