The Chevy Silverado is engineered specifically for serious work, and when it comes to hauling heavy payloads or towing large trailers, owners can engage the built-in Tow/Haul mode to make sure everything goes smoothly. This mode is available on both the Silverado 1500 and Silverado HD, modifying vehicle behavior to improve performance and control under load. Now, GM Authority is taking a closer look.
Activating Tow/Haul mode will alter how the transmission shifts, making it both easier to control the vehicle and improving overall performance. This mode can also adjust things like steering and, if equipped, trailer sway control.
Turning off the Chevy Silverado while Tow/Haul mode is active will keep the mode active for up to four hours. After four hours, the truck will revert back to Normal mode. For diesel-powered trucks, Tow/Haul mode automatically turns on exhaust braking, which helps to slow the truck through engine braking via downshifts and the turbocharger. This is particularly helpful to keep overall speed in check without cooking the brakes. Once the truck is on flat ground, or if the throttle is pressed, the truck will switch back to normal shifting.
Additionally, using Manual Mode or Electronic Range Select will deactivate automatic braking, allowing the driver to select their own gear range. To note, the Automatic Engine Start/Stop feature is turned off while Tow/Haul mode is active.
In terms of capability, the 2025 Silverado 1500 can tow up to 13,300 pounds with the 3.0L I6 LZ0 turbodiesel Duramax engine, two-wheel drive, Crew Cab / Short Bed body, and Max Trailering Package (RPO code NHT). The 2025 Silverado HD offers a massive 36,000-pound maximum tow rating, which is achieved by the 3500 HD Regular Cab Long Bed DRW with 2WD, gooseneck hitch, and the Max Trailering package.
As for payload, the highest in the 1500 series is 2,530 pounds in a Regular Cab Long Bed with the 5.3L V8 L84 gasoline engine. The HD tops out at 7,290 pounds, courtesy of the 3500 2WD Regular Cab Long Bed DRW with the 6.6L V8 L8T gasoline engine.
Check out our previous coverage for more information.
Comment
My 2022.5 Silverado with the 3.0 diesel does nothing in town haul mode. No change in shifting, no engine braking, etc. I’ve questioned the dealer for 3 years. I even showed gm proof that tht TCM remains “inactive” even after turning tow haul mode on. GM refuses to provide any details and simply state “your vehicle works normal”. Seems like a cover up to me. Any one else have similar issues?