I drive a Toyota Tacoma and need to tow a trailer with several ATVs this weekend, but the total weight is pretty close to the recommended limit—can a Tacoma actually tow 6,500 pounds?
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
This is a great question—yes, a Toyota Tacoma can feasibly tow 6,500 pounds, but the ease of which it does so will depend on a number of factors, including weather, terrain, and towing equipment.
Reference the breakdown of these factors below for a better understanding:
Weather: Rain or snow on the road can cause slippage of whatever you’re towing, making it more difficult to stop when you need to. Side winds can also make towing heavy loads—and especially box trailers—difficult and hard to control.
Terrain: Generally, you aren’t going to want to tow 6,500 pounds up and down a bunch of hills or steep inclines—it will strain your vehicle and can make stopping difficult when coming down a hill. Straight, flat roads are what you want.
Equipment: Having the right equipment can make all the difference when towing large loads. A weight-distributing hitch helps level the load, making it easier on you and the truck. Similarly, an electric trailer brake controller makes braking easier and more reliable.
In any case, you will need to be extra cautious and pay careful attention to how the trailer is handling while towing a heavy load. Hopefully this helps!
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