Towing 101: How to Tow with Your GMC

When you have a pickup truck or SUV, there is a good chance that you will do more than just carry people and stuff around. This is because your GMC vehicle is engineered to tow a trailer. Depending on which GMC vehicle you own or are considering buying, it can tow anything from a small box trailer for moving to ATVs to a large travel trailer. 

When you decide that you want to tow something behind your GMC vehicle, there is a checklist of things to know in doing it right. Here is a rundown of how to tow a trailer behind your GMC vehicle.  

Before you start towing, know your vehicle’s capacities. These towing capacity ratings can be found on a sticker or plate inside the driver’s door jamb. Do not tow more than the stated rated on that sticker or plate; it is smart to tow below those limits to get the best performance out of your GMC. 

On the vehicle side, you should always check the condition of your hitch, tow ball, the connection points, wiring, and safety chains. Of course, having the right hitch for the job is important. Inspect your trailer to see if it is in good shape. Make sure everything is rust-free and there’s no cracks or wear on the trailer.  

There are some rules and laws to follow when you’re pulling a trailer. There may be some differences when you are traveling between states and into Canada. Make sure you know these laws. They will include weight restrictions and speed limits, including metric ones for Canada.  

Now it’s time to hitch up your trailer. Make sure that you have a secure connection. Connect the trailer lights, wiring, and safety chains until they are properly secured. When loading up the trailer, make sure that it is evenly distributed for weight balance. A balanced trailer is good for stability and to prevent sway when you’re on the road.  

When everything is hooked up, go ahead and test the trailer brakes. They have to work before you set off. You want both your GMC and the trailer behind it to stop properly every time you touch the brake pedal. 

Once you are on the road, remember that the extra length of your rig offers plenty of challenges while getting to your destination. Stopping the GMC and trailer is one. Allow for some extra distance when you put on the brakes; overall stopping distance increases with a trailer. Parking is another challenge. Find somewhere that has the length available for the whole rig.  

When you are moving, make sure you change lanes safely with the extra length of your rig. Use your mirrors and the touchscreen monitor for assistance to make sure you have the space to make your move.  

You may experience trailer sway on occasion. If that happens, reduce your speed and let the trailer behind you settle. Patience is a virtue and is required when you are towing. Making any sudden moves may ruin your experience. Brake gradually. Engage the transmission’s Tow/Haul Mode for improved performance.  

We mentioned the touchscreen with camera views that will help your trailering experience. These technologies, including the In-Vehicle Trailering App, are helpful and can enhance your drive with the trailer. Don’t forget to add the MyGMC Mobile App for Trailering so you can create and manage trailer profiles away from your vehicle.  

With spring under way and summer coming soon, it is tow season. Are you ready to hit the road? If you need a new tow vehicle, contact us at Valley GMC to see which one of our models will work for your trailering adventures.