Towing Capacity: What it means and why it matters
Towing capacity (also called maximum braked towing limit) is the heaviest trailer or caravan your car can legally tow. It is set by the car manufacturer and shown on the VIN plate.
Every car has a maximum braked towing capacity set by the manufacturer. This is the single heaviest trailer it can pull. For most family cars, this ranges from 1,200kg to 2,500kg. Larger SUVs and 4x4s may tow up to 3,500kg. The towing capacity is determined by the car's engine, transmission, brakes, cooling system, and chassis strength. It is not the same as the 85% rule (which is a safety guideline, not a legal limit) or GTW (which includes the car's own weight). You must not exceed your car's towing capacity. Doing so is illegal.
Why this matters
This is the legal limit. If your caravan's MTPLM exceeds your car's towing capacity, you cannot legally tow it. Regardless of what the 85% rule says.
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Frequently Asked Questions
On your car's VIN plate (door frame), in the owner's handbook, or use our free reg checker for an instant lookup.
No. Towing capacity is set by the manufacturer and cannot be legally increased by fitting a towbar, uprating springs, or any aftermarket modification.