ehicle towing Frequently asked Questions (applicable in
the UK) - Dec 2005
Towing capacity/weight.
1. How can I find out the towing capacity of my car?
A car that has EC Whole Vehicle Type Approval (ECWVTA) will have a Vehicle Identification
Number plate (VIN plate) bearing the vehicle manufacturer's name, chassis number and an approval
number including the letter "e" in a small rectangle. This plate is usually located under the car's
bonnet, but it can sometimes be located in other positions, for example near the driver's door.
The plate will look something like this:
VIN No (This is sometimes called the chassis number and it is unique to that specific vehicle)
XXXX KG (The maximum vehicle weight, e.g. the total weight, it does not include any trailer
weight)
XXXX KG (The maximum train weight, vehicle plus trailer)
1. XXXX KG (maximum load front axle)
2. XXXX KG (maximum load rear axle)
So if for example you have a car with a maximum weight of 2180 kg and a train weight of 3980 kg
the maximum towing capacity will be 3980 kg minus 2180 kg which gives a towing capacity of
1800kg
This information may also be found in the vehicle handbook, or from a vehicle specification sheet
supplied by the manufacturer.
2. I have a type approved car, but no train weight is shown on the VIN plate, may I still tow
with it?
If the manufacturer has not authorised the towing of a trailer by declaration during the type approval
process, no train weight will be shown and it is not permitted to fit a coupling device or tow a trailer.
For example the Ford KA has no declared train weight, and no mounting points for a tow bar. There
are a number of other vehicles which do not have a declared train weight and are not able to tow a
trailer.
Tow bars /couplings
3. What is a type approved tow bar?
A type approved tow bar is a tow bar which has been approved to Community Directive 94/20EEC.
4. What are the requirements to fit a type approved tow bar?
If you wish to tow anything with a car which was first used on or after the 1st August 1998 the car
must be fitted with a type approved tow bar.
5. My car was first registered on 1st September 1998; do I need a Type approved tow bar?
Yes, all cars first registered on or after 1st August 1998 must be fitted with a type approved tow bar if
they are to be used for towing.
6. How can I tell if a tow bar is type approved?
1
Vehicle towing Frequently asked Questions (applicable in the UK) - Dec 2005
Each type approved tow bar will have a label, plate, or stamping detailing its type approval number
for example E11xxxxxxx, and the details of the vehicle for which it is an approved fitment.
7. May I fit a type approved tow bar myself?
Yes provided you use the car manufacturer's approved mounting points, and follow the tow bar
manufacturer's instructions.
Brakes / Weight
8. What is the maximum weight I can tow with an unbraked trailer?
The maximum you may tow with an unbraked trailer is 750 kg. The towing vehicle must have a
kerbside weight at least twice the maximum weight of the trailer.
Dimensions
9. I am thinking of purchasing a caravan from a dealer in Holland, it is 2.4 metres wide; may I
legally tow it with my 2004 Vauxhall Vectra?
No, under the Road Vehicles Construction and Use Regulations the maximum width allowed for a
trailer is 2.3 metres if the towing vehicle has a maximum weight of 3500 kg or less.
If you require any further information regarding the regulations covered by this fact sheet, please
contact the DfT at the address below:
Transport Technology and Standards 6
Department for Transport
Zone 2/04
Great Minster House
76 Marsham Street Telephone: 020 7944 2078
London Fax: 020 7944 2196
SW1P 4DR Email:
TTS.enquiries@dft.gsi.gov.uk
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