The Tesla Model Y tow hitch uses a standard 2-inch by 2-inch (5 cm by 5 cm) square receiver classified as a Class II high-strength steel tow bar. This receiver accepts any compatible ball mount with a 2-inch shank and supports a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) on all-wheel-drive configurations. The ball mount itself must not exceed 8.5 inches (22 cm) in length or 0.75 inches (2 cm) of rise. Below, we walk through every specification, explain the hitch class system, show you exactly how to measure and confirm fit, and cover the real-world details that matter before you hitch up and head out.
What Size Is the Tow Hitch on the Tesla Model Y?
The tow hitch on the Tesla Model Y is a 2-inch by 2-inch (5 cm by 5 cm) square receiver. Tesla classifies this receiver as a Class II steel tow bar, and it is integrated into the rear subframe of the vehicle. The 2-inch measurement refers to the inside dimension of the square opening, which is the same opening that your ball mount shank slides into. This 2-inch receiver is the most common hitch receiver size on midsize SUVs across North America, according to CURT Manufacturing.
The receiver sits approximately 12.5 inches above the ground on a stock Model Y, according to measurements reported by Drive Tesla Canada. Ground clearance at the trailer hitch matters because it determines how much drop or rise your ball mount needs to keep your trailer level. A receiver that sits 12.5 inches off the ground is lower than the average full-size pickup truck receiver, which typically sits 18 to 22 inches up. That difference is important when selecting a ball mount.
One detail worth noting for Canadian and international buyers is that the 2-inch (5 cm) receiver standard is the same physical dimension in both metric and imperial markets. Some European and Australian accessories label the receiver opening as 50 mm, but 50 mm and 2 inches are functionally identical sizes. Any 2-inch shank ball mount, hitch-mounted cargo carrier, or bike rack will fit the Model Y receiver without adapters.
What Does the Tesla Model Y Tow Package Come With?
The Tesla Model Y tow package comes with three components:
- One high-strength steel tow bar with a 2-inch hitch receiver
- One trailer harness with a standard North American 7-pin wiring connector
- One Trailer Mode software package that activates automatically when a trailer electrical connection is detected
The tow package does not include a ball mount. Ball mounts must be purchased separately because the correct mount depends on the type of trailer you plan to tow, the coupler height of that trailer, and whether you need a drop or a rise to keep the trailer level. Tesla's official support page confirms that compatible ball mounts must meet specific dimensional limits: a maximum length of 8.5 inches (22 cm) and a maximum rise of 0.75 inches (2 cm).
The 7-pin wiring connector is located near the hitch receiver and supports power for tail lights, brake lights, left and right turn signals, reverse lights, ground, and a low-voltage power circuit. This 7-pin connector is the standard across North America, which means most trailers sold in Canada and the United States will plug in directly without requiring an adapter. The connector also triggers Trailer Mode automatically when plugged in while the vehicle is in Park.
How Much Can a Tesla Model Y Tow?
A Tesla Model Y can tow up to 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) on all-wheel-drive configurations with five or fewer passengers, according to the Tesla Owner's Manual. This 3,500 lb capacity has remained consistent across every Model Y model year from 2020 through 2026, making it one of the few electric crossover SUVs with a stable, unchanged towing specification across its entire production run. Data from TowingSpecs.com, last verified in June 2026, confirms this figure is identical across all trims including Long Range and Performance.
The towing capacity changes, however, based on how many passengers are in the vehicle and which seating configuration you have. The 6-seater and 7-seater variants have lower maximum towing limits when additional seats are occupied. The Tesla Owner's Manual provides specific tables for each configuration.
| Configuration | Wheel Size | Passengers | Max Towing Capacity | Max Tongue Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5-Seater / Performance | 18", 19", 20", 21" | 5 or fewer | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) | 350 lbs (159 kg) |
| 6-Seater | 19" / 20" | 4 or fewer | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) | 350 lbs (159 kg) |
| 6-Seater | 19" / 20" | 6 | 2,300 lbs (1,043 kg) | 230 lbs (104 kg) |
| 7-Seater | 19" | 6 or fewer | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) | 350 lbs (159 kg) |
| 7-Seater | 19" | 7 | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) | 200 lbs (91 kg) |
| 7-Seater | 20" | 7 | Not permitted | N/A |
Sources: Tesla Model Y Owner's Manual (2025/2026 edition), Tesla Support page
The table above reveals a detail most competitors miss entirely: a 7-seater Model Y on 20-inch wheels with all seven seats occupied is not permitted to tow at all. Owners with this configuration who plan to tow should limit the vehicle to six or fewer passengers. For most 5-seater owners, the full 3,500 lb capacity applies regardless of wheel size, which simplifies the decision.
How Much Tongue Weight Can a Tesla Model Y Handle?
The Tesla Model Y can handle up to 350 lbs (159 kg) of tongue weight when towing a trailer. Tongue weight is the downward force that the front of the trailer places on the hitch ball, and the Tesla Owner's Manual recommends keeping tongue weight between 4% and 10% of total trailer weight. A trailer weighing 3,000 lbs should place between 120 lbs and 300 lbs of downward force on the hitch ball for stable towing.
The tongue weight limit for accessory carriers is different from the trailer towing limit. When you mount a roof rack alternative such as a hitch-mounted bike rack or cargo tray, the maximum vertical load drops to 160 lbs (72 kg). This lower limit exists because accessory carriers position the load further from the hitch receiver than a standard trailer ball mount connection. The increased leverage from that cantilevered distance puts more stress on the receiver and the vehicle's rear suspension.
Exceeding either tongue weight limit can cause the rear of the vehicle to sag, which lifts the front wheels and reduces steering control. The weight of the carrier itself counts toward the 160 lb accessory limit, so a 40 lb bike rack leaves 120 lbs for the actual bikes.
What Are the Three Common Hitch Sizes?
The three common hitch sizes are 1-1/4 inch, 2 inch, and 2-1/2 inch. These measurements describe the inside dimension of the square receiver opening, and each size corresponds to a different range of vehicle types and towing capacities. A fourth size, 3 inch, exists for extremely heavy-duty trucks but is rare enough that most drivers will never encounter one.
The 1-1/4 inch receiver appears on compact cars and small crossovers. Vehicles equipped with a 1-1/4 inch receiver typically fall into Class I or Class II, with maximum gross trailer weight ratings under 3,500 lbs, according to Weigh Safe. The 2-inch receiver is the most widely used size across midsize SUVs, full-size pickups, and vans. A 2-inch receiver can span Class III and Class IV ratings, handling gross trailer weights from 3,500 lbs up to 10,000 lbs depending on the hitch class and vehicle frame rating. The Model Y's 2-inch receiver places it squarely in this mainstream category. The 2-1/2 inch receiver is reserved for heavy-duty pickups, typically three-quarter-ton and one-ton trucks manufactured after 2008, with Class V ratings up to 18,500 lbs gross trailer weight.
Because the Model Y uses a 2-inch receiver, it is compatible with the widest range of aftermarket ball mounts, tow hitch covers, cargo carriers, and hitch-mounted accessories available in North America.
How Can I Tell if My Hitch Is Class 3 or Class 4?
You can tell if your hitch is Class 3 or Class 4 by checking the gross trailer weight (GTW) rating stamped on the hitch frame or listed in the vehicle's owner's manual. A Class 3 hitch supports up to 8,000 lbs GTW and up to 800 lbs of tongue weight, according to CURT Manufacturing. A Class 4 hitch supports up to 10,000 lbs GTW and up to 1,000 lbs of tongue weight. Both Class 3 and Class 4 use the same 2-inch receiver opening, so receiver size alone does not determine the class.
Tesla officially classifies the Model Y factory tow hitch as a Class II tow bar. However, aftermarket hitch manufacturers such as CURT (part #13598) and Torklift (EcoHitch X7409) rate their Model Y hitches to Class III standards under SAE J684 testing, with 3,500 lbs GTW and 525 lbs tongue weight for the CURT unit. The distinction matters because the vehicle's own frame and powertrain ultimately cap the towing capacity at 3,500 lbs regardless of which hitch is installed. Bolting on a higher-rated aftermarket hitch does not increase the Model Y's towing capacity beyond what Tesla specifies.
How Do I Know What Size My Tow Hitch Is?
You know what size your tow hitch is by measuring the inside dimension of the square receiver opening with a tape measure. Place the tape measure inside the receiver tube from one inner wall to the opposite inner wall. A reading of 2 inches (5 cm) confirms a 2-inch receiver. A reading of 1.25 inches confirms a 1-1/4 inch receiver.
On the Tesla Model Y, the factory tow package always installs a 2-inch receiver, so measuring is a confirmation step rather than a discovery step. The measurement becomes more important when purchasing a used Model Y with an aftermarket hitch already installed, where the receiver size might be 1.25 inches instead of 2 inches. Some aftermarket hitch receiver options for the Model Y are available in both 1.25-inch and 2-inch sizes, so verifying the installed size before purchasing a ball mount or accessory prevents compatibility problems.
The measurement also confirms whether the receiver has any wear or deformation. A receiver that measures noticeably wider than 2 inches may have been damaged or bent, which compromises its weight rating and safety.
How to Confirm the Right Ball Mount Fit for the Tesla Model Y
Confirming the right ball mount fit for the Tesla Model Y requires checking three measurements: the shank size, the ball mount length, and the amount of drop or rise needed to keep your trailer level. The shank must be a 2-inch by 2-inch square to fit the Model Y receiver. The ball mount length must not exceed 8.5 inches (22 cm). The rise must not exceed 0.75 inches (2 cm).
To determine whether you need a drop or a rise, park both your Model Y and trailer on level ground. Measure from the ground to the top inside edge of the hitch receiver on the Model Y. The factory receiver sits approximately 12.5 to 15 inches above ground level. Then measure from the ground to the bottom of the trailer coupler where the hitch ball sits when the trailer is level. If the coupler measurement is lower than the receiver height, you need a ball mount with a drop. If the coupler sits higher than the receiver, you need a ball mount with a rise.
For example, if your receiver measures 14 inches from the ground and your trailer coupler measures 12 inches, you need a 2-inch drop. Many common ball mounts sold in North America offer a 2-inch drop on one side and a 3/4-inch rise when flipped over. A ball mount like this fits within the Model Y's 0.75-inch maximum rise specification while also providing a usable drop position.
Tesla's specification prohibits drop ball mounts that exceed the 8.5-inch length or 0.75-inch rise limits. The rise restriction exists because the welded hitch housing on the Model Y can experience stress at the mounting points when a ball mount with excessive rise applies upward leverage. Using a non-compliant ball mount can cause clearance issues with the rear hitch dust cover area and may void warranty coverage for towing-related damage.
What Types of Ball Mounts Fit the Tesla Model Y?
The types of ball mounts that fit the Tesla Model Y are any fixed or adjustable ball mounts with a 2-inch square shank that fall within the 8.5-inch length and 0.75-inch rise limits. The hitch ball mounted on top of the ball mount must also match your trailer's coupler size. Three common hitch ball diameters exist across North America: 1-7/8 inch, 2 inch, and 2-5/16 inch.
The 1-7/8 inch ball fits small utility trailers and lightweight boat trailers under 2,000 lbs. The 2-inch ball is the most common size for medium-duty trailers, including popup campers, enclosed cargo trailers, and mid-size boat trailers rated between 2,000 and 3,500 lbs. The 2-5/16 inch ball handles heavier loads up to 10,000 lbs or more, but the Model Y's 3,500 lb towing limit means you would only use this ball size if your trailer coupler specifically requires it.
The hitch ball shank diameter must also match the hole in your ball mount. A 1-inch shank diameter is standard for ball mounts rated up to 7,500 lbs, which covers the Model Y's capacity with significant margin. When selecting a ball mount, verify that the shank diameter, ball diameter, and ball mount dimensions all meet the Model Y's specifications before purchasing.
How to Attach a Ball Mount to the Tesla Model Y Hitch Receiver
Attaching a ball mount to the Tesla Model Y hitch receiver takes about five minutes and requires no tools beyond a flat-head screwdriver or thin prying object. The Tesla Owner's Manual outlines the following steps:
- Remove the dust cover from the hitch housing. The Model Y uses two push clips to secure the dust cover. Use a thin flat screwdriver to twist and pry each clip open. Pull the dust cover free and store it in a secure location.
- Remove the cotter pin from the locking bolt, if one is already installed. Slide the locking bolt out of the hitch assembly.
- Slide the ball mount shank into the hitch receiver opening until the holes in the ball mount align with the hole in the hitch assembly.
- Push the locking bolt through both aligned holes to secure the ball mount inside the receiver.
- Insert the cotter pin through the hole at the end of the locking bolt to prevent the bolt from sliding out during travel.
When the ball mount is not in use, Tesla recommends removing it from the receiver and reinstalling the dust cover. Leaving a ball mount installed between towing trips exposes the receiver interior to road salt, dirt, and moisture, which can cause corrosion over time. Storing the dust cover in a dry location and reinstalling it after each use helps protect the receiver housing for years of service. If you are near our North York location and need a general inspection of your tow setup, we can check the receiver, locking hardware, and electrical connections.
How Does Towing Affect Tesla Model Y Range?
Towing reduces Tesla Model Y range by an estimated 23% to 50% or more depending on trailer weight, aerodynamic profile, speed, and weather conditions. A 2024 study conducted by Arval UK in collaboration with UTAC found that towing reduces electric vehicle range by 23-31% against real-world (non-EPA) range under controlled conditions. Independent road tests compiled by multiple automotive outlets and calibrated by EV Math show that a mid-size travel trailer near the Model Y's maximum tow rating at highway speeds can reduce range by 45-55%.
The Model Y's Trip Planner adjusts range estimates when Trailer Mode is active, but Tesla's own support page notes that actual energy consumption may vary from these adjusted estimates. Planning shorter legs between charging stops is the safest approach. For Canadian owners, the Owner's Manual also imposes a towing speed limit of 55 mph (89 km/h) in Canada, which reduces aerodynamic drag compared to higher highway speeds and helps preserve range.
Tire pressure also plays a role in towing efficiency. The Tesla Owner's Manual requires all tires to be inflated to 42 psi (290 kPa) when towing, regardless of tire size. This higher pressure reduces rolling resistance and helps the vehicle handle the additional load without excessive sidewall flex. We carry TPMS sensors that help you monitor pressure in real time.
How Does Trailer Mode Work on Tesla Model Y?
Trailer Mode on the Tesla Model Y works by automatically adjusting several vehicle systems to account for the added weight and length of a trailer. Trailer Mode engages automatically when you plug a trailer's electrical connection into the 7-pin wiring connector while the vehicle is in Park. You can also activate or deactivate Trailer Mode manually through Controls, then Dynamics, then Trailer Mode on the touchscreen.
While Trailer Mode is active, Traffic-Aware Cruise Control increases the following distance from the vehicle ahead. Side collision warnings remain active, but the automatic steering interventions that normally push the vehicle away from a side collision are disabled. The braking force from Automatic Emergency Braking may also be reduced, which increases stopping distance. Some features, including Autopark and rear parking sensor functionality, become unavailable.
The Tesla Owner's Manual includes an important threshold for trailer brakes: for trailers with a combined loading above 1,650 lbs (750 kg), Tesla recommends equipping the trailer with its own independent braking system. A brake controller must be purchased separately, and the required 4-pin pigtail connector can be ordered through Tesla Service. This pigtail connects under the dashboard in the driver's side footwell, where a dedicated vehicle wiring connector is accessible beneath the carpet.
Can I Get an Aftermarket Tow Hitch for My Tesla Model Y?
Yes, you can get an aftermarket tow hitch for the Tesla Model Y. Multiple manufacturers produce bolt-on trailer hitches specifically engineered for the Model Y's rear subframe mounting points. Aftermarket options like the CURT #13598 and the Torklift EcoHitch X7409 are tested to SAE J684 standards and rated at 3,500 lbs towing capacity with 350 to 525 lbs of tongue weight. These hitches use the same standard 2-inch receiver as the factory tow package.
Aftermarket hitches typically feature a concealed design that mounts behind the factory rear bumper access panel, preserving the vehicle's clean exterior appearance. Most bolt-on aftermarket hitches do not include a wiring harness, so you may need to purchase a separate trailer wiring kit to get the 7-pin connector functionality that comes standard with the Tesla factory tow package. We carry a range of quality Tesla parts and can help you find the right combination of hitch and wiring for your setup.
One advantage of the factory Tesla tow package over aftermarket is the integrated Trailer Mode software. Some aftermarket wiring harnesses may not trigger Trailer Mode automatically when the trailer is connected, which means you would need to activate Trailer Mode manually through the touchscreen before every towing trip.
How Do I Know My Hitch Capacity?
You know your hitch capacity by checking three sources: the label or sticker on the hitch frame itself, the vehicle's owner's manual, and the rating of your ball mount. The lowest-rated component in the entire towing chain sets the maximum capacity for the system. A 3,500 lb hitch paired with a 2,000 lb ball mount means your system capacity is 2,000 lbs.
For the Tesla Model Y, the vehicle's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) also limits what you can tow. The maximum towing capacity assumes the GVWR is not exceeded, so carrying heavy cargo and multiple passengers inside the Model Y while towing a heavy trailer can push you past the vehicle's total weight limit even if the trailer itself is under 3,500 lbs. The Tesla Owner's Manual states this explicitly: maximum towing capacity is calculated assuming the GVWR is not exceeded.
A practical way to verify your total setup is to weigh the loaded vehicle and loaded trailer separately on a public scale. Many truck stops and aggregate supply yards offer certified scales. Comparing the measured weights against the published limits in the owner's manual gives you a definitive answer about whether your towing setup is within safe limits. Consider scheduling brake service before any extended towing trip to confirm your braking system is in peak condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Tesla Model Y Tow a Trailer?
Yes, the Tesla Model Y can tow a trailer when equipped with the factory tow package or a compatible aftermarket hitch on an all-wheel-drive configuration. The maximum towing capacity is 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with five or fewer passengers on the 5-seater and Performance variants.
Can You Tow With a Tesla Model Y Without AWD?
No, you cannot tow with a Tesla Model Y without all-wheel drive. Tesla's tow package is only available on AWD configurations. Rear-wheel-drive Model Y variants do not support the factory tow package and are not rated for trailer towing.
How Much Weight Can a Tesla Model Y Tow Hitch Carry for a Bike Rack?
A Tesla Model Y tow hitch can carry up to 160 lbs (72 kg) of vertical load when used with a hitch-mounted accessory carrier such as a bike rack or cargo tray. This 160 lb limit includes the weight of the carrier itself, so subtract the carrier's weight to determine how much cargo you can add.
Do I Need to Adjust Tire Pressure When Towing With Tesla Model Y?
Yes, you need to adjust tire pressure to 42 psi (290 kPa) on all tires when towing with the Tesla Model Y. This pressure applies to every approved tire size from 18-inch through 21-inch, according to the Tesla Owner's Manual. The increased pressure compensates for the additional load and helps maintain proper handling.
Is There a Speed Limit for Towing in Canada?
Yes, the Tesla Owner's Manual limits towing speed to 55 mph (89 km/h) in Canada. This speed restriction applies regardless of posted highway speed limits. Drivers must also comply with all provincial and territorial regulations that may impose additional speed restrictions when towing.
What Happens to Autopilot Features When Towing?
Autopilot features change when towing with Trailer Mode active. Traffic-Aware Cruise Control increases following distance, side collision automatic steering interventions are disabled, Automatic Emergency Braking force may be reduced, and Autopark becomes unavailable. Full Self-Driving (Supervised) features may also be restricted during towing.
Putting It All Together
The Tesla Model Y's 2-inch square hitch receiver, 3,500 lb towing capacity, and 350 lb tongue weight limit make it one of the most capable electric crossover SUVs for towing in both Canada and the United States. The Model Y has been the world's best-selling car for three consecutive years, with over 1 million units sold annually according to JATO Dynamics and CleanTechnica, and a large portion of those owners are discovering just how versatile the vehicle becomes with the right towing setup.
Getting the right fit comes down to confirming the receiver size, selecting a ball mount that meets the 8.5-inch length and 0.75-inch rise limits, and measuring the drop or rise needed to keep your trailer level. Every component in the towing chain, from the hitch to the ball mount to the hitch ball to the trailer coupler, must match in size and stay within its rated capacity.
If you have questions about which parts fit your Model Y or need help selecting the right hitch receiver setup, we are here to help. Browse our full selection of Model Y parts and accessories at Tesmods, or call us at 437-800-2328 to speak with someone who knows Tesla vehicles inside and out.
