Towing Capacity of a 2014 Chevy Malibu LS 2.5L Ecotec and Trailer Hitch and Wiring Recommendations
Question:
Hello, I was wondering if you can give me an exact number on the towing capacity of this engine. The hitch is rated at 3000-3500lbs. I highly doubt that. Im looking into a 2017 prolite cool camping trailer, which is rated at about 925lbs. Thanks in advance, for all your help.
asked by: Tony F
Expert Reply:
I checked the owner's manual for the 2014 Chevy Malibu and it states that the towing capacity of the vehicle, no matter which motor or trim level it has, is 1,000 pounds gross trailer weight. Trailer hitches such as # C12115 have their own ratings but you always go by the lowest rating, vehicle or hitch, and in this case the vehicle is lower. That means even though the hitch is rated higher you are limited to 1,000 pounds gross trailer weight.
If the trailer weighs 925 pounds when loaded and ready to tow then you would be within the capacity of the Malibu. Anything over 1,000 pounds though and you will be exceeding the capacity.
In addition to the trailer hitch I also recommend Curt Class II Drawbar - 2-5/8" Rise, 3-1/4" Drop - 6-1/4" Long - 3,500 lbs Item # C45017. For a compatible ball you can use # 19256 for a 1-7/8 inch ball or # 19258 for a 2 inch ball.
And for trailer wiring you can use # C56176 since your Malibu is an LS model.
Products Referenced in This Question
1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 1-9/16" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 1-7/8 Inch Diameter Ball
- 1-9/16 Inch Shank Length
- 3/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 2000 lbs GTW
- Class I
- Class II
- Draw-Tite
more information >
2" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 1-9/16" Long Shank - Chrome - 3,500 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2 Inch Diameter Ball
- 1-9/16 Inch Shank Length
- 3/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 3500 lbs GTW
- Class I
- Class II
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Powered Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- CURT
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class II
- 350 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Concealed Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
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