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Tow pkg or aftermarket?
Posted: Sun Aug 04, 2013 8:53 pm
by Joybulb
Hey all, first post here. Seriously considering an SL 2013 model, and wondering if I should skip the hitch and put one on myself(meaning buy aftermarket and have someone put it on for me)?
Posted: Mon Aug 05, 2013 6:28 am
by Calicajun
Check with Nissan head service office first. Before buying our PF we looked at Dodge SUV some came with trailer hitches some didn't, the dealer was willing to install a hitch for us at no cost. But after doing some research fund out the the ones with a hitch from factory towed 4,000 pounds, the one without a hitch only towed 2,500 pounds. Found out that other car company do the same thing.
There is also a thread in this forum (I think this forum) that also talks about this problem. If you haven't bought your PF yet check this out with Nissan head office and not the dealer.
Posted: Sat Aug 10, 2013 4:59 pm
by volvite
A tow package includes more than just a hitch. Usually it involves a transmission oil cooler, the trailer plug etc. Factory tow packages are usually worth their cost if you plan on towing.
Posted: Sat Mar 22, 2014 6:02 am
by pyrophilus
Starting with R51, transmission oil coolers were standard on all pathfinder models (actually, their failure caused tranny luid/coolant issues with '05's)
My 2005 LE had the optional "tow package", which was nissan hardwiring light controls to the hitch, as all R51's had the hitch standard.
I am sure that all R52's (2013-) also have rear hitch standard. The tow package just adds factory trailer wiring, and an electric brake jumper.
Posted: Sat Mar 22, 2014 8:08 am
by Grumpah
pyrophilus wrote:.
I am sure that all R52's (2013-) also have rear hitch standard. The tow package just adds factory trailer wiring, and an electric brake jumper.
INcorrectomundo! The 2013 - 2014 SV on up models have an
optional tow package that includes
the receiver plus the wiring. The Pathfinder engine and transmission already have the towing capacity figured in for those models. The tow package is NOT available on the "S".
Since this thread is over 6 months old, I'm sure the original poster has already made their decision, but for others, I would recommend getting your Pathfinder with the tow package if you plan to tow at all. Aftermarket options are available, but quality (and towing capacity) might be diminished, depending on who you use to do the install.