Towing FAQ in Manassas, VA

FAQ: Towing with Toyota Pickup Trucks

Not only are trucks powerful, dependable, and capable, but they can perform tough duties such as towing. For personal needs or work, a Toyota pickup truck could be just what you’re looking for. Consider the Toyota Tundra and Tacoma, which can handle a variety of tasks.

To find out just what these models can do, visit us at Miller Toyota in Manassas, VA. We’ll explain different towing terms and show you what to expect out of these Toyota models.

What is the difference between towing capacity and payload capacity?

Trucks can pull and carry a significant amount of weight. The towing capacity is the maximum weight that a truck can safely pull. This includes the vehicle the truck is pulling (such as a trailer, boat, or car) and the cargo inside the vehicle.

The payload capacity is the most weight the truck can carry in its bed. Trucks can pull more than they can carry, although the payload capacity influences the truck’s towing capacity.

What is the maximum weight that a Toyota truck can tow?

The Toyota Tundra and Tacoma can take care of your towing jobs. The Tacoma has a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds. Meanwhile, the Tundra can tow up to 12,000 pounds.

How can you increase the towing capacity of a Toyota truck?

It is possible to increase the amount of weight your Toyota truck can pull. First, you could add a transmission cooler to the vehicle. Upgrading the axles and suspension could also make the truck more capable of towing. Another option would be to install a weight distribution hitch on the truck.

How can you maximize your safety while towing with your Toyota truck?

When towing, you need to follow some safety precautions and guidelines. Doing so will help you arrive at your destination without incident and secure your load.

• Do not exceed 65 mph in your truck when towing. Do not exceed the recommended speed as stated in the owner’s manual.
• Avoid making sharp or jerky turns when towing. Also, avoid applying the brakes suddenly, as this can cause skidding and jack-knifing.
• Do not exceed the gross axle weight, gross vehicle weight, and tongue trailer weight capacities. Also, do not tow more than the hitch assembly can handle.
• Do not use the pre-collision system or dynamic radar cruise control system when towing with a Toyota truck.
• Slow down and down-shift before you start going down steep hills when towing. Under these conditions, don’t downshift suddenly while descending.
• When you are towing a trailer with your Toyota truck, always secure the safety chain to both the trailer and the truck. Using trailer brakes is important while you are towing as well.
• Properly inflate the tires on your truck and ensure they have sufficient tread depth.
• Check if the trailer lights are functioning and that you have connected the lights properly. Also, set the trailer ball at the right level.
• Check your truck’s rearview mirror before towing. Make the necessary adjustments to ensure you clearly see the vehicle you are towing.

What happens if you tow more than the truck’s capacity?

Exceeding the towing capacity of your truck can affect the performance of your truck and the longevity of the trailer you are pulling. Towing more than the truck’s ability can also pose safety risks to you, those in your truck, and others on the road. It can put stress on the truck, lead to axle failure, and damage to the suspension. This can also affect the tires, brakes, and drivetrain.

Find Your Tow-Ready Vehicle in Manassas, VA

As you understand basic towing guidelines and safety, you can get the most out of your tow-ready vehicle and enjoy using it for all your towing duties.

At Miller Toyota, we have a wide range of Tacoma and Tundra models to explore. Each one is capable of towing the items you need to take with you. Stop by our dealership in Manassas, VA, today so you can choose your next Toyota truck.