Tow/Haul Mode Made Simple
If you tow an RV with a pickup truck, you’ve probably seen a Tow/Haul Mode button on your dashboard. But what exactly does it do, and when should you use it?
Tow/Haul Mode is designed to help your truck handle heavy loads more safely and efficiently. Whether you’re towing a large fifth wheel, a travel trailer, or hauling cargo in the bed, this feature adjusts how your truck shifts, brakes, and manages power to better handle the extra weight.
In the video above, which you can also view on the RV Miles YouTube channel, Jason breaks down how Tow/Haul Mode works and shares his experience using it while towing both a 43-foot fifth wheel and a 25-foot travel trailer.
What Is Tow/Haul Mode?
Tow/Haul Mode is a feature built into many pickup trucks that changes how the transmission and engine behave when your vehicle is pulling a trailer or carrying a heavy load.
When activated, the truck adjusts gear shifts, braking behavior, and engine performance to better manage extra weight. These adjustments help improve control, reduce wear on critical components, and make towing feel smoother overall.
What Tow/Haul Mode Does
When you activate Tow/Haul Mode, your truck adjusts several systems to make towing easier and safer.
Changes gear shifting
Tow/Haul Mode keeps the transmission in each gear longer before shifting. This allows the engine to stay in a stronger power band, which improves acceleration and reduces the constant up-and-down shifting that can happen while towing.
Adds engine braking on hills
When descending hills, Tow/Haul Mode uses engine braking to help slow the truck and trailer. Instead of relying entirely on your brakes, the transmission automatically downshifts to control your speed. This helps prevent brake overheating on long descents.
Optimizes gear selection
Modern trucks often have transmissions with eight, ten, or even more gears. Tow/Haul Mode helps the transmission select the most appropriate gear for the load you’re pulling, which improves performance and reduces unnecessary strain on the engine.
Reduces transmission heat and wear
By adjusting shift timing and locking certain transmission components when needed, Tow/Haul Mode helps manage heat buildup in the transmission. This can improve long-term reliability when towing heavy loads.
Disables certain fuel-saving features
Some trucks deactivate cylinders during light driving to save fuel. Tow/Haul Mode typically disables this feature so the engine delivers full power when towing or hauling.
When You Should Use Tow/Haul Mode
Tow/Haul Mode is most useful anytime your truck is working harder than normal.
Towing an RV or trailer
If you’re pulling a travel trailer, fifth wheel, or cargo trailer, Tow/Haul Mode should generally be turned on. It helps the truck manage the added weight and improves control.
Carrying heavy cargo
If your truck bed is loaded with heavy equipment, building materials, or other significant weight, Tow/Haul Mode can help your truck accelerate and shift more smoothly.
Driving in hilly or mountainous terrain
Even with lighter loads, Tow/Haul Mode can make climbing and descending hills easier by improving gear selection and engine braking.
Long-distance towing
On long trips, Tow/Haul Mode reduces strain on the transmission and helps maintain smoother performance for hours of driving.
Some drivers even use Tow/Haul Mode when descending steep mountain grades without a trailer because the engine braking helps control speed.
When Not to Use Tow/Haul Mode
Tow/Haul Mode keeps the engine running at higher RPMs and typically uses more fuel. Because of that, it’s not necessary for everyday driving when you’re not towing or carrying a heavy load.
You should also avoid using it on icy or extremely slippery roads. The added engine braking and power delivery can sometimes make it harder for tires to maintain traction. In normal rain, however, it’s generally safe to use.
Tips for Modern Trucks
Many newer trucks automatically detect towing conditions and adjust transmission behavior accordingly. In lighter towing situations, the difference between normal driving and Tow/Haul Mode may not be dramatic.
However, when towing heavier trailers or driving in mountainous terrain, turning Tow/Haul Mode on is still a good practice. It helps your truck manage power, braking, and heat more effectively.
As always, it’s a good idea to check your truck’s owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s specific recommendations.
Simple Guidelines for Using Tow/Haul Mode
- Use it when towing an RV or trailer
- Turn it on when hauling heavy cargo in the truck bed
- Use it for hilly or mountainous driving
- Consider using it on steep downhill grades for better braking control
- Avoid using it on icy roads unless necessary
Final Thoughts
Tow/Haul Mode is a simple feature that can make a big difference when towing an RV. By adjusting how your truck shifts gears, manages power, and slows down on hills, it helps reduce stress on your vehicle and improves control behind the wheel. towing and hauling safer and easier. While it might use a bit more fuel, the benefits for your truck’s performance and safety are worth it. Whether you’re towing a big trailer or driving down a steep mountain, Tow/Haul Mode gives you better control and peace of mind.
Did you find this article helpful? Then you might enjoy this one – 10 Tips For Saving Fuel – these practical and easy tips will put a little change back in your pocket as you go down the road with your fifth wheel or travel trailer behind you.
