One of the most exciting aspects of the luxurious yet rugged Lexus GX 550 is its towing prowess. This new Lexus SUV is built for the toughest adventures, with its impressive 4.6-liter V8 engine and a body-on-frame construction enabling an impressive towing capacity. Before you hitch up your trailer and head up to the California hills, it’s important to consider towing safety. Here are some essential towing safety tips for the Lexus GX 550.

Know Your Towing Limits

The 2024 Lexus GX 550 has a maximum towing capacity of 8,000 pounds when you choose the Premium or Premium Plus trim levels. Be sure never to exceed this limit, as overloading your vehicle can strain it and compromise safety. Remember that this 8,000-pound capacity includes the combined weight of the trailer and the cargo you’re carrying.

Trailer Brakes

For trailers exceeding 1,500 pounds, trailer brakes are necessary. These help to distribute the overall braking force, reducing strain on your Lexus SUV’s brakes and improving stopping distances.

Weight Distribution

Another facet of stable towing is proper weight distribution. Too much weight at the rear of the trailer can cause the trailer to sway and the vehicle to handle erratically, while too much weight at the front can lift the front of your Lexus GX 550 and reduce steering control.

Hitch and Wiring

Before departing, make sure that your trailer hitch and wiring are properly installed and rated for the weight of your trailer. For optimal safety, our Lexus technicians here at Lexus of Valencia will install the hitch for you if your tow-capable SUV wasn’t equipped with a factory-installed hitch.

Gear Up for Your Next Adventure in Valencia, CA

Here at Lexus of Valencia, our team of friendly salespeople is ready to show off the advanced towing features on the 2024 Lexus GX 550. Stop by our dealership today to gear up for your next adventure!