2017 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2017 Toyota Tacoma can tow between 3,500 pounds and 6,800 pounds, depending on the configuration.

Quick Answer

• Max Towing Capacity: 6,800 pounds
• Max Payload: 1,620 pounds
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 5,600 pounds
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): 11,300 pounds
• Curb Weight: 3,980 to 4,495 pounds
• Hitch Class: Class III (with factory tow package), Class II (without factory tow package)

Tow Ratings by Engine & Trim

All 2017 Toyota Tacoma models are rated according to the SAE J2807 towing standard, ensuring consistent and comparable ratings.

Note: Max payload varies based on specific configuration, options, and accessories. Always verify the payload capacity for your specific vehicle on the tire and loading information sticker located on the driver's side door jamb.

Tow Package Contents

The available Tow Package for the 2017 Toyota Tacoma, which is required to achieve the maximum towing capacities, typically includes:

• Class IV Receiver Hitch: This robust hitch is designed to handle heavier loads and typically has a maximum tongue weight capacity of 680 pounds when properly equipped.
• Engine Oil Cooler: Helps maintain optimal engine temperatures during demanding towing conditions.
• Automatic Transmission Fluid Cooler (V6 Automatic models): Essential for preventing transmission overheating when towing, extending the life of your transmission fluid and components.
• Power Steering Cooler: Helps reduce wear on the power steering system under heavy loads.
• 130-Amp Alternator: Provides additional electrical power to support trailer lighting and accessories.
• 4- and 7-Pin Trailer Connector with Converter: Offers versatile connections for various trailer electrical systems, including brake lights, turn signals, and in some cases, auxiliary power and trailer brake controller input.
• Trailer Sway Control (TSC): An electronic system that automatically applies brake pressure and/or reduces engine torque to help maintain control if it detects trailer sway. This is a crucial safety feature for towing.

It's important to note that an integrated trailer brake controller is not typically included as a factory option on the 2017 Toyota Tacoma. An aftermarket trailer brake controller will be necessary for trailers equipped with electric brakes.

5th-Wheel & Gooseneck Towing

The 2017 Toyota Tacoma is a mid-size pickup truck and is not designed or rated for 5th-wheel or gooseneck towing. These types of trailers require a heavy-duty truck with a specialized bed-mounted hitch to properly distribute the much heavier pin weight. Attempting to tow a 5th-wheel or gooseneck trailer with a Tacoma would exceed its structural and towing capabilities and create a dangerous situation.

Weight Distribution & WDH Requirements

For trailers approaching the upper limits of the 2017 Tacoma's towing capacity (generally over 5,000 pounds, but always consult your owner's manual), a Weight Distributing Hitch (WDH) is highly recommended. A WDH helps to distribute the trailer's tongue weight more evenly across all axles of both the tow vehicle and the trailer. This can:

• Improve steering and braking performance.
• Reduce sag at the rear of the tow vehicle.
• Enhance overall stability and control, especially at highway speeds.

Even when using a WDH, the maximum tongue weight rating of the hitch receiver and the maximum Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) must not be exceeded.

Real-World Towing Tips for This Vehicle

• Know Your Weights: Always verify the actual weight of your loaded trailer, including cargo and fluids, using a certified scale. Never exceed the max towing capacity, GVWR, GCWR, or individual axle weight ratings.
• Payload Matters: Remember that your truck's payload capacity includes the tongue weight of the trailer, passengers, cargo in the truck bed, and any aftermarket accessories. Overloading the payload can compromise handling and braking.
• Pre-Trip Inspection: Before every tow, check tire pressures (truck and trailer), lights, brakes, fluid levels, and ensure all connections are secure.
• Slower is Safer: Reduce your speed when towing, especially in adverse weather conditions or on challenging terrain. This gives you more time to react and reduces stress on your vehicle.
• Braking Distances: Anticipate needing significantly more distance to stop when towing a trailer. Adjust your following distance accordingly.
• Trailer Brake Controller: For trailers with electric brakes, ensure you have a properly installed and adjusted aftermarket trailer brake controller for safe and effective braking.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance of your Tacoma, especially fluids and brakes, is crucial when you frequently tow.

Common Towing-Related Issues

• Transmission Overheating: This is a common issue when towing heavy loads, especially without the factory transmission cooler. Symptoms include warning lights, loss of power, or unusual shifting. The factory tow package's transmission cooler helps mitigate this.
• Poor Braking Performance: If your trailer isn't equipped with its own brakes, or if your aftermarket brake controller isn't set up correctly, you'll experience extended braking distances and increased fade.
• Sagging Rear Suspension: This indicates excessive tongue weight or an overloaded payload. A WDH can help, but if the issue persists, you may be exceeding capacity.
• Trailer Sway: This terrifying experience can be caused by improper weight distribution, too little tongue weight, strong crosswinds, or excessive speed. The Tacoma's Trailer Sway Control is a great asset here, but proper loading is paramount.
• Reduced Fuel Economy: Expect a significant drop in miles per gallon when towing, especially with larger or less aerodynamic trailers.

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