You're ready for a weekend getaway with your caravan, or perhaps you need to haul heavy materials to a worksite. In either scenario, understanding the ins and outs of vehicle towing is crucial for both safety and legal compliance.

This comprehensive guide will help you:

  • Understand towing capacity and essential measurements
  • Choose the right towing equipment
  • Learn about vehicle-specific capabilities
  • Debunk common towing myths
  • Master safe towing practices

Let's start with the most important question: what exactly determines how much weight your vehicle can safely tow?
 

What is Towing Capacity?

Essentially towing capacity refers to the maximum weight your vehicle can safely pull using the manufacturer’s genuine towing equipment.

However, determining your vehicle's true towing capacity involves more than just glancing at a single number in the specifications.

Your vehicle's towing capacity also hinges on its Maximum Gross Combination Mass Rating  - the maximum combined amount your vehicle and trailer can safely weigh when loaded. It's important to note that the weight of additional passengers and gear in your car may reduce the amount you can legally tow.

When considering towing capacity, you'll encounter two main types:

  1. Braked Towing Capacity: This represents the maximum weight your vehicle can tow when the trailer has its own braking system.
  2. Unbraked Towing Capacity: This indicates the maximum weight your vehicle can tow when the trailer doesn't have brakes. In Australia, this is capped at 750kg, regardless of your vehicle's capabilities.
     

How Do I Measure the Towing Capacity of My Vehicle?

Accurately measuring your towing capacity involves several key measurements:

Vehicle-Specific Tow Measurements:

  • Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM): This is the maximum mass of your vehicle which includes additions such as all luggage and cargo, passengers, and any accessories that have been fitted (which includes towball download).
  • Kerb Mass: The weight of your vehicle with a full tank of fuel, without occupants, luggage or cargo and with all standard equipment. It also does not include accessories fitted (including the towbar) and tray body for Cab Chassis vehicles.
  • Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR): Otherwise known as Axle Capacity, this is the maximum weight each axle of your vehicle is designed to safely carry. This includes the weight of the vehicle itself plus any passengers, cargo and accessories.
  • Payload: Otherwise known as Carry Capacity and is calculated by taking the GVM and subtracting Kerb Mass.

Trailer-Specific Measurements

  • Gross Trailer Mass (GTM): This is the total weight of your fully loaded trailer when it's properly hitched to your vehicle. This includes the weight transferred through the trailer's axles to the ground when the load is evenly spread across the trailer.
  • Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM): Otherwise known as Maximum Towable Mass and is the total weight or mass of your loaded trailer when carrying the maximum load recommended by the trailer manufacturer - not attached to a vehicle and resting on a jockey wheel.
  • Trailer Payload: The maximum weight of gear and cargo that can be loaded in your trailer.
  • Towball Download: This is the amount of weight or mass that is applied downwards on the towball. Also known as Trailer Nose Mass, Trailer Ball Mass (TBM) or Trailer Ball Weight (TBW). This typically ranges between 5-10% of the total trailer weight, but the exact percentage depends on your specific vehicle and trailer manufacturer specifications. This must be considered when ensuring the GVM is not exceeded.

Combined Vehicle and Towed Measurement

  • Gross Combination Mass (GCM): This is the rated maximum laden mass of your vehicle combined with the towed object.

Your actual towing capacity is calculated by subtracting your vehicle's kerb weight and payload from its Maximum Gross Combination Mass (GCM). It's vital to stay within all specified limits, including Maximum Gross Combination Mass and Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM).

For the most precise measurements, visit a local weighbridge to weigh your entire setup. You can also check your ball weight at home with a simple device to ensure the trailer is loaded correctly


How Much Can I Tow?

To determine how much you can safely tow, you'll need to consider several key measurements:

  1. Your vehicle's maximum braked towing capacity
  2. Your vehicle's current payload and passengers
  3. The Gross Combination Mass (GCM) limit
  4. The trailer's weight and towball download

For example, while your vehicle might have a 3,100kg maximum braked towing capacity, your actual towing ability could be less depending on how much weight you're carrying in your vehicle. Always start by checking your vehicle's specifications plate and owner's manual for these crucial numbers.

Now that you understand how to calculate safe towing limits, let's look at two popular Mitsubishi vehicles and their specific towing capabilities to help you choose the right vehicle for your needs.
 

Mitsubishi Outlander Towing Capacity

For those seeking a versatile vehicle with occasional towing capabilities, the Mitsubishi Outlander is a popular choice - with 1,600kg tow capacity, it is better suited to relatively light use. To ensure accuracy, always consult your specific model's manual for the most applicable information.
 

Mitsubishi Triton Towing Capacity

If you need to tow on a regular basis, then look no further than the Mitsubishi Triton.

This powerhouse boasts an impressive tow capacity, with most recent 2024 models capable of towing up to 3,500kg (braked). Such capacity makes it an ideal choice for hauling caravans, boats, or work trailers.
 

How to Increase Towing Capacity

While you can't fundamentally alter your vehicle's engineered towing capacity, you can take steps to optimise your towing setup. Consider the following:

  1. Invest in the right equipment: Choose a high-quality towbar and ensure all your towing gear is rated appropriately for your needs. Genuine Mitsubishi Motors accessory towbar kits are designed and engineered to integrate with relevant vehicle functions and safety systems, and not interfere with or compromise durability and crash structure design.
  1. Master weight distribution: Proper weight distribution can help you make the most of your vehicle's towing capacity.
  1. Prioritise regular maintenance: Keeping your vehicle in top condition ensures it can perform at its maximum towing capacity.

Remember, staying within your vehicle's specified limits isn't just advisable - it's mandatory for safety and legal compliance as it is illegal to operate a vehicle outside of its specified limits.
 

Right Equipment for Towing

Having the correct equipment is non-negotiable for safe and efficient towing.

Here's what you need:

  1. Towbar: This is a device attached to the chassis of a vehicle for towing. Select a towbar designed for your vehicle and rated for your intended load.
  2. Couplings: a critical component of heavy vehicle towing and are designed to provide safe connection between the vehicle and trailer. Ensure these are compatible and at the correct capability for the level of towing required.
  1. Safety Chains: Required by law, these provide a backup connection between your vehicle and trailer. Ensure all chains and shackles are correctly rated for your application, that they are the right length and crossed over each other.
  1. Trailer Brakes: Genuine electronic trailer brake kits provide the safest and most effective braking method. This ensures adjustment within the cabin to allow for varying terrain or weight conditions, along with additional safety and, most importantly, complete control. Remember, a separate braking system is a legal requirement.
  1. Tow Mirrors: These are a legal requirement for obstructed views behind your trailer, to provide a full view along the length.

When it comes to towing equipment, quality matters. Consider Mitsubishi Genuine accessories for optimal performance and compatibility with your vehicle.

While having the right equipment is essential, understanding common misconceptions about towing safety can help you avoid potential risks on the road.
 

Tow Safety Considerations

Towing safely involves more than just knowing your capacity. Mastering proper loading techniques, understanding how to handle trailer sway, and adapting your driving to conditions are all crucial skills.

Consider taking a towing course to hone these techniques and ensure you're prepared for any situation on the road.

Regular trailer maintenance is equally important for safe towing. Before any trip, check your trailer's brake system, tyre condition and pressure, wheel bearings, and all lights including indicators and brake lights. Pay special attention to your towing connection points - inspect the hitch, safety chains, and wiring harness for any signs of wear or damage. These simple checks can prevent dangerous situations and give you peace of mind on your journey.
 

Common Towing Myths Debunked

In the world of towing, misinformation abounds. Let's clear up some common misconceptions to ensure you're towing safely and effectively:
 

Myth 1: You don't need to consider passengers and gear when calculating your towing setup

While your vehicle's maximum towing capacity is a fixed specification, the weight of passengers and cargo in your vehicle may affect how much you can actually tow. This is because your vehicle and trailer combination must stay within the Gross Combination Mass (GCM) limit - the maximum total weight allowed for both your loaded vehicle and loaded trailer together.

For example, if your vehicle is heavily loaded with passengers and gear, you may need to reduce the trailer load to stay within the GCM limit, even though your vehicle's official towing capacity hasn't changed.

Myth 2: It doesn't matter how you load your trailer or caravan

The way you distribute weight in your trailer significantly affects its stability and tendency to sway. Always pack heavy items at the bottom of your trailer, and position as much weight as possible above the trailer's axle/s. Ensure you load your trailer or caravan evenly on both sides to increase stability and reduce the risk of accidents. Always check you trailer’s ball weight to ensure it is weighted correctly for the trailer’s weight -  too light and this can cause instability too.

Myth 3: Towing doesn't affect your driving speed

While robust vehicles like the Mitsubishi Triton don't have a maximum towing speed lower than the speed limit, you must drive to the conditions and understand the terrain and environmental factors that can impact stability, fuel usage & even longevity in our harsh climate.

This helps avoid excessive fuel usage and maintains better control. Additionally, some states have different maximum speed limits for towing, depending on the load. Always check local regulations and adjust your speed accordingly.

Myth 4: You don't need towing mirrors if you have a rear camera on your caravan or trailer

Towing mirrors play a crucial role in safe towing. They allow you to see along the entire length of your caravan or trailer, not just directly behind it. Towing mirrors are required unless your vehicle's factory-fitted mirrors are wider than the caravan and provide a clear view along its full length. While a rear camera is a great additional safety feature, it doesn't replace the need for proper towing mirrors.

Myth 5: You can fit your own electric brake controller

While it might be tempting to save money by installing your own electric brake controller, this job is best left to professionals. Modern vehicles have sensitive electrical systems that enable advanced features such as anti-lock braking and electronic brakeforce distribution. Incorrectly installed brake controllers can interfere with these systems, potentially compromising your vehicle's safety features. Mitsubishi Motors Genuine Electric Trailer Braking kits are designed to correctly integrate with all of the electrical, safety and control systems on your vehicle. Always have any trailer brake control system installed by a qualified professional to ensure they integrate correctly with your vehicle's systems.

By understanding these common myths and the realities of towing, you'll be better prepared for safe and efficient towing experiences. When in doubt, always consult with professionals or refer to your vehicle's manual for accurate information.

Ready to start your towing journey?

Armed with knowledge about your vehicle's towing capacity, the right equipment, and best practices, you can tow safely and confidently. Whether you're heading to a worksite or embarking on your next adventure, you're now ready to hit the road with peace of mind.

Visit your local Mitsubishi dealer today to discuss your specific towing needs and discover the right vehicle and genuine accessories for your next adventure.