GMC Towing Capabilities: Maintenance for Optimal Performance

Hauling heavy trailers and boats can stress some of your truck’s most vital parts, such as the engine, brakes, and transmission. To ensure your truck is always in optimal trailering condition, you need to schedule routine GMC towing maintenance at your GMC dealer. Learn about the key systems that need routine service today. 

When it comes to maintenance that supports the towing capabilities of your truck, it’s best to start under the hood. A basic oil change can go a long way to enhancing the performance and power of your engine, particularly if you spend a lot of time on the road. Additionally, you will want to keep an eye on other fluid levels in your vehicle, such as differential fluid, transmission fluid, and coolant.

Because trailering and towing require a lot of power from your engine to generate the torque necessary to move extra heavy loads, you will need to pay special attention to your cooling system. Depending on your truck, you may have a radiator and external coolers that prevent the engine from overheating, and the coolant for all of these coolers needs to be changed frequently so you get the best performance from your truck. 

Hitch and Wiring

For trailering safety on the road, you should check your hitch and wiring systems any time you use your truck for towing. Taking the time to double-check the tightness of your hitch attachment and the security of your receiver pin can ensure your truck is ready to tow. If your trailer supports an electrical wiring system, be sure to check the connectors and performance of the trailer lights each time you prepare for travel. 

Tires and Brakes

It’s essential to have tires with good tread when you are hauling a trailer behind your truck. When your tires have high tread, you have better traction on the road that supports your torque and braking. Brake pads should also be routinely checked to make sure you can bring your truck and trailer to a complete stop quickly. 

When Should You Visit Your GMC Dealer for GMC Towing Maintenance?

When you frequently use your GMC truck to tow heavy hauls, it’s crucial to keep up with routine maintenance. Your owner’s manual recommends service intervals every 7,500 miles for tasks like checking the quality of the brake pads, rotating tires, changing motor oil, and replacing the oil filter. For average drivers, this means scheduling service every six months to maintain the top towing capability of the truck. 


The most essential parts of your truck that need maintenance for optimal towing performance are the wiring system, brake system, and cooling system. Your local dealership is equipped with all the wear-and-tear parts you need to streamline your truck’s towing capability. Schedule service at Oxendale GMC in Flagstaff, AZ. 

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