When To Use Tow/Haul Mode on the 2025 Silverado 2500 HD

What makes the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD a top contender in its class is its ability to handle heavy-duty towing and hauling jobs well. Whatever hauling job you’ll throw at this truck — be it a camper, a boat, or construction equipment — you can count on the Silverado 2500 HD. Its raw power, cutting-edge trailering features, and well-thought-out design make any towing job a breeze. Keep reading to find out what makes the Silverado 2500 HD a powerhouse for tackling towing challenges.

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Understanding Tow/Haul Mode on the 2025 Silverado 2500 HD

Tow/Haul mode provides the new Silverado 2500 HD with more power for towing heavy trailers or hauling substantial loads. Activating the Chevrolet Silverado’s Tow/Haul mode allows the truck to automatically change how it shifts gears, staying in lower gears longer to give you more power and control. This makes driving up hills or on bumpy roads easy. It also cuts down on the number of transmission shifts, which makes for a smoother and more controlled drive, even when you’re carrying heavy loads.

Another benefit of Tow/Haul mode is that it enhances your truck’s braking. As you drive downhill, it automatically selects a lower gear, providing greater braking power. This reduces the strain on the brakes, which lowers the risk of brake pad or fluid overheating.

When To Activate Tow/Haul Mode

Tow/Haul mode shines when you’re towing a big trailer or carrying a heavy load. It’s not absolutely essential for lighter cargo, such as mountain bikes or a small utility trailer, but it can come in handy, especially if you’re navigating hilly terrain.

Towing or hauling anything on roads that frequently go up and down will require your truck to work harder, and Tow/Haul mode can help improve transmission shifting in these more challenging conditions. However, some manufacturers advise against using Tow/Haul mode in icy or slippery conditions, as the increased engine braking may lead to a loss of rear-wheel traction and cause the vehicle to slide unexpectedly.

Technical Features Enhancing Tow/Haul Mode

The engine of the Silverado 2500 HD powers its impressive towing and hauling capabilities. The truck comes standard with a gas-powered 6.6-liter V-8 engine that produces up to 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque. But, if you want to kick it up a notch, you can opt for the Duramax Turbo-Diesel 6.6-liter V-8 engine — it outperforms the gas option with a whopping 470 horsepower and 975 lb-ft of torque, basically doubling the maximum tow rating of the gas engine.

Both engines are paired with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission and can be set up with either rear- or four-wheel drive. You can also choose between a single or dual rear-wheel axle, depending on your needs.

In addition to the powerful engines, the Silverado is also equipped with a host of driver-assistance and trailer-specific technology that enhances its towing capability. These include Trailer Sway Control, Integrated Trailer Brake Control, and Adaptive Cruise Control with Trailering. There’s even a multiview camera system that features a transparent mode. So, towing becomes a breeze in parking lots and when merging onto the highway, as the system allows you to almost see right through the trailer.

Practical Tips for Using Tow/Haul Mode Effectively

The Silverado 2500 HD’s Tow/Haul mode is highly beneficial for towing or hauling heavy loads, particularly when utilized effectively. Below are some practical tips.

Turn On the Tow/Haul Mode Before Towing

Activate the truck’s Tow/Haul mode before you start towing so you can have smoother acceleration and deceleration, particularly when handling those heavier loads. This will make your towing experience more enjoyable while helping keep your truck running efficiently for many years.

Utilize Engine Braking in Descents

You can activate Tow/Haul mode to engage engine braking and assist your truck in maintaining a smooth and steady speed when you’re going downhill. This makes your ride more enjoyable while reducing the load on your braking system, as it doesn’t have to do all the heavy lifting alone. You’ll also prevent brake fade — a temporary and sudden decrease in braking power due to excessive heat — because you’ll be taking some of the stress out of your braking system.

Check Your Trailer Connections

Double-check all those trailer connections before you hit the road. Ensure the brakes are securely attached, the lights are working well, and the hitch is fastened snugly. Activating Tow/Haul mode can improve your driving experience, but making sure everything is in top shape will allow you to enjoy a smoother and safer ride.

Use the Right Gear

Choosing the right gear when towing with your Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD is important to make the most out of Tow/Haul mode. Picking the right gear helps keep your speed steady and means fewer gear shifts, which is especially helpful on those hilly stretches or when you’re hauling heavy loads. This boosts your truck’s performance, keeps the transmission from overheating, and cuts down on wear and tear.

Combining the right gear with Tow/Haul mode allows you to enjoy better engine braking, greater control, and a smoother towing experience, which can help your truck’s transmission and engine last even longer.

Get Behind the Wheel of the New Silverado 2500 HD at Jack Burford Today

The all-new Chevrolet Silverado 2500 offers an incredible range of trailering features, offering power, safety, and convenience. It’s the ideal companion for anyone who loves to tow. We’d love for you to swing by our Jack Burford dealership and take the new Silverado 2500 HD for a test drive around Richmond, Kentucky, to experience its towing capability firsthand. Contact us today to schedule a test drive.

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