Can My Vehicle Tow a Trailer? What You Need to Know Before You Rent
The most common problem at pickup is a customer showing up with a vehicle that isn't set up to tow the trailer they booked. This guide tells you exactly what to check before you book so there are no surprises when you show up to pick up your trailer.
Step 1 — Know Your Vehicle's Tow Rating
Your tow rating is the maximum weight your vehicle is rated to pull as specified by the manufacturer. You can find it in your owner's manual, on the door jamb sticker, or on the manufacturer's website. Tow ratings vary significantly by year, make, model, trim level, and whether the vehicle has a factory tow package. This is why we can't give you a specific number for your truck. Your tow rating must exceed the loaded weight of the trailer you are renting — not just the trailer's empty weight.
If you don't have your manual, the easiest way to find your exact tow rating is to check the driver's side door jamb sticker, use a free VIN lookup tool online, or call a local dealership for your make and give them your VIN.
Step 2 — Check Your Hitch Size
A 2 inch ball hitch and a 2 5/16 inch ball hitch are not interchangeable — using the wrong size is a safety hazard. To check yours, look at the ball on your hitch; the size is usually stamped on top of the ball. Most standard trucks and SUVs come with a 2 inch ball from the factory. The 2 5/16 inch ball is larger and typically used for heavier trailers. You may need to purchase a different ball or have one installed before pickup if your vehicle only has a 2 inch ball and you are renting a trailer that requires 2 5/16.
Good news: KD Trailer Rentals offers adjustable ball hitches for customers to use during their rental if you don't have the correct size on your vehicle.
Generally speaking, Class I and II hitches use a 1 7/8 inch or 2 inch ball, while Class III and IV hitches use a 2 inch or 2 5/16 inch ball. Always verify the size stamped on your ball matches the trailer coupler.
Step 3 — Check Your Plug Type
To check your plug type, look at the connector on the back of your vehicle near the hitch. If you only have a 4-pin and need a 7-pin, you will need an adapter or a new plug installed before pickup. Here is a breakdown of what each plug does and which KD trailers require them:
| Plug Type | What It Powers | Which KD Trailers Accept It |
|---|---|---|
| 4-Pin Plug | Basic lighting (running, brake, turn signals) | 12ft, 14ft, and 20ft Utility Trailers |
| 7-Pin Plug | Lighting + Electric Brakes + 12V Power | All Dump, Enclosed, Car Hauler, and Equipment Trailers (and Utilities) |
Step 4 — Do You Need a Brake Controller?
A brake controller is a device installed in the tow vehicle that communicates with the electric brakes on the trailer and applies them in proportion to how hard the driver is braking. Without it, the trailer has no brakes of its own, which is both dangerous and illegal in Illinois for trailers above a certain weight.
Brake controllers are required for all KD trailers except the 12ft and 14ft utility trailers. To check if you have one, look for a small device usually mounted on the dashboard or under the dash near the steering column.
Many newer trucks have a built-in trailer brake controller from the factory — check your owner's manual to confirm. If you do not have one, you will need one installed before renting any trailer that requires it.
What If My Vehicle Isn't Set Up for Towing?
If your vehicle is missing the right hitch ball, plug, or brake controller, these are all items that can be installed at most auto parts stores or hitch installation shops before your rental date. Call ahead and confirm availability and installation time so you are not scrambling the day before pickup. Alternatively, many customers choose to simply rent a towing-capable pickup truck from Enterprise or U-Haul for the day rather than modifying their personal vehicle.
If you are not sure whether your vehicle qualifies for the trailer you want to rent, call KD Trailer Rentals at 618-414-9857 before booking and Kyle will help you figure it out.
Illinois Towing Laws — What You Need to Know
- Illinois requires trailer brakes on trailers over 3,000 lbs gross weight.
- Illinois requires safety chains connecting the trailer to the tow vehicle.
- Trailer lights including running lights, brake lights, and turn signals are required and must be functioning.
- The driver is responsible for ensuring the trailer is properly loaded and secured before driving.
All KD trailers come with the appropriate straps and chains included, and Kyle walks every renter through hookup at pickup to make sure everything is connected correctly.
If you have any questions about whether your vehicle is set up to tow a specific trailer, call 618-414-9857 before booking. You can also check what size trailer you need for your specific job or submit a booking request when you're ready to get started.
