Speed limits when towing

Do you ever tow a caravan, trailer, or boat? Obviously, you’ll need a vehicle that’s up to the job, but it might surprise you to learn that many manufacturers impose reduced speed limits for towing – either across the board or when the weight of the trailer exceeds a certain limit.

It can get a bit confusing, so here’s a quick overview of the various limits to get you up to speed.

First, if you’re looking to buy a vehicle and using it to tow, be sure to check the handbook, towing tips, warnings, and restrictions set by the manufacturer on that specific model. While some allow you to travel at 110km/h, others have towing speed limits as low as 80km/h, so it’s important to choose a vehicle that meets your needs.

Australian state towing limits

Speed limits for towing can vary significantly between states. In Western Australia, the maximum towing speed is 100 km/h, regardless of the vehicle and trailer's weight, and learner drivers can tow only if accompanied by an experienced driver. New South Wales allows towing at the prevailing road limit, generally 100 km/h, but limits it to 100 km/h for vehicles with a gross vehicle mass over 4.5 tonnes; learner drivers in NSW cannot tow.

In Victoria and Queensland, there are no specific towing speed limits, so drivers should follow posted speed limits and adjust based on road conditions. South Australia, the Australian Capital Territory, and the Northern Territory also do not have specific towing speed limits and require adherence to posted limits and road conditions. Tasmania mandates that towing must adhere to the road's speed limit—typically 100 or 110 km/h on highways and 80 km/h on unsealed roads—applicable to caravans with a gross vehicle mass under 12 tonnes.

Subaru towing limits

Subaru recommends a maximum towing speed of 80km/h for all its vehicles. According to Subaru manuals, “Never exceed 80 km/h (50mph) or the legal speed limit, whichever is lower. Exceeding the speed limit could cause loss of vehicle stability and/or could lead to an accident.”

The Subaru Outback’s handbook further warns drivers of changes to steering, stability and braking performances when towing. “You should never drive at excessive speed but always use extra caution when towing a trailer.”

While Subaru strongly recommends adhering to the 80 km/h limit, exceeding it without surpassing the legal speed limit won’t void the warranty or affect insurance coverage.

Ford towing limits

Ford uses a sliding scale of towing speed limits for models like the Territory and Falcon. For example, the speed limit is 80km/h when towing maximum loads, which range from 1200 kg for a manual transmission Falcon to 2700 kg for an AWD Territory.

To tow at 100 km/h, Ford recommends that the load not exceed 1200 kg. However, it’s important for owners to consult the specific towing advice for their vehicle model, load conditions, and trailer type.

Holden, Hyundai, Mazda, Isuzu towing limits

There are no speed restrictions imposed by these manufacturers when towing with their vehicles. However, all recommend that drivers abide by road limits. As a Holden spokesman clarified to the NRMA, “it goes without saying that we would advise drivers to obey local speed limits.”

Mitsubishi towing limits

While Mitsubishi doesn’t impose an 80km/h maximum the manufacturer does offer a comprehensive towing guide. It recommends reducing open road cruising speeds when towing for better control and less mechanical stress.

Mitsubishi explains that reducing speed also helps to maximise fuel economy, noting that “speeds of 80 to 90 km/h are recommended when towing caravans or trailers that create an increase in wind resistance. Higher speeds will significantly increase fuel usage and engine operating temperature.”

 

Toyota towing limits

The only towing speed restriction set by Toyota is a 100km/h limit on the Prado wagon.

A matter of safety and insurance

Manufacturers’ towing limits are mostly set for better safety and vehicle durability. But besides that, it’s important to realise that exceeding restrictions could also affect any insurance claims or even become a legal liability in the event of a serious accident.

So, take the time to get to know the limits and recommendations that apply to your vehicle, and hit the open road equipped with the knowledge you need to have a safe and happy journey.