Tow/Haul Mode: When You Should Use It

Thanks to advancements in technology, most vehicles are equipped with features that make driving much easier. One such feature is the Tow/Haul mode commonly found in pickup trucks. It helps drivers navigate tricky situations and makes it safer to drive under certain circumstances. So what exactly is Tow/Haul mode, and why should you use it?

What Is Tow/Haul Mode?

Tow/Haul mode is a feature available on automatic-transmission vehicles and has two main functions.

The first function is that it changes the car’s shift pattern to upshift later and downshift earlier. This makes it easier to tow whatever’s attached to the back of the vehicle.

The second function is that it keeps the transmission temperatures at a stable level. Some vehicles even lock out the top gears to maximize heat management.

Most vehicles explain the specific functions of the Tow/Haul mode in their owner’s manual.

Do All Trucks Have Tow/Haul Mode?

Tow/Haul mode is only available on vehicles with automatic transmissions.

How Does Tow/Haul Mode Affect Vehicle Performance?

One way the Tow/Haul mode affects a vehicle’s performance is by reducing the stress put on the brakes. The function does this by selecting lower gears to increase engine-braking effects. As a result, it reduces the chance of brake pads and fluids overheating.

However, using it also affects your fuel economy. This mode increases the RPM of the vehicle’s engine, leading to higher fuel consumption. In addition, the ramped-up RPM can put a lot of stress on your engine, which can lead to damage.

When to Use Tow/Haul Mode

Here are some instances where Tow/Haul mode is appropriate to use:

When You’re Towing

Switching on the Tow/Haul mode increases your truck’s power and stability when towing. It does so by optimizing the transmission shifting and increasing the RPM of the vehicle’s engine.

Driving Through Steep Inclines or Declines

Due to the increased RPM, this mode gives your engine more power and makes it easier to climb steep inclines. Similarly, the optimized engine-braking effects let you maintain better control when going down declines.

When is Tow/Haul Mode Unnecessary?

While this feature is helpful for certain scenarios, there are times when it’s unnecessary to use it. Here are situations when it’s okay not to use it:

When You’re Carrying a Light Load

Carrying a light load, such as a bike or a small trailer, doesn’t require you to drive with the Tow/Haul mode on. However, it may be necessary if you’re going up a steep incline.

Driving Through Slippery Road

Driving in Tow/Haul mode on slippery roads is dangerous, as the increased engine braking may cause your vehicle to slide unexpectedly.

Common Misconceptions About Tow/Haul Mode

While the use of the Tow/Haul mode is quite specific, some drivers may misunderstand its functions and applications. Here are two common misconceptions about this feature:

It Increases Vehicle Speed

Tow/Haul mode increases the vehicle engine’s RPM, not the speed. What it improves is engine power, allowing vehicles to pull heavy loads and traverse inclines easier. It also increases the speed of each shift–not the car’s acceleration itself.

It’s Only for Large Trailers

Large trailers are one of the things you can easily tow when using Tow/Haul mode. However, it’s not the only thing you can use it on. You can use this feature to transport any heavy load, such as RVs, bass boats, and more.

How Heavy Should the Attachment Be Before Turning Tow/Haul Mode On?

Generally, you should only switch to this mode when the attachment affects your vehicle’s performance. The exact weight differs since vehicle models have different towing capacities. Before towing or hauling any load, make sure to check your vehicle manual. On average, anything over 2000 lbs requires you to turn the function on.

It’s best to refer to the user manual that comes with your truck. It’ll have the specifications and capacities of the vehicle and the Tow/Haul mode.

How to Turn Tow/Haul Mode On and Off

To turn the Tow/Haul mode on and off, you simply have to press the button. The location differs for each truck, but it’s often located on the dashboard, console, or near the shift lever.

Can I Turn Tow/Haul Mode On While Driving?

You can turn Tow/Haul mode on even while you’re driving. The function doesn’t require stopping your vehicle first, so pressing the button will immediately engage Tow/Haul mode.