Typically, installing a tow package costs between about $500 and $2,000, depending on the vehicle, the components chosen, and whether you opt for aftermarket hardware or a factory-installed option. This range covers both parts and labor for most cars, SUVs, and light trucks.
The overall price you’ll pay is influenced by the type of hitch, the wiring and electronics required, the presence of a brake controller, and the labor rate at your chosen shop. This article breaks down the common components and the typical price ranges you’ll encounter when adding a tow package.
What a tow package typically includes
Prices break down by component and installation route. The following list outlines common parts and what you can expect to pay for each when installing a tow package.
- Hitch receiver and mounting hardware: $150–$550 for the hitch itself, plus $100–$250 in labor depending on access and bumper design.
- Wiring harness and trailer electronics: $100–$250 for a basic 4-pin harness; $200–$500 for a 7-pin or modular system, plus $100–$200 in labor.
- Brake controller: $40–$150 for a baseline unit; $150–$350 for a mid- to high-end model, plus 1–2 hours of labor ($50–$150).
- Labor to install the system: $100–$400, depending on vehicle and complexity (some installations require bumper removal or wiring through the frame).
- OEM factory tow package: often included as part of a factory option or dealer-installed, with parts and labor commonly ranging from $600–$2,500 depending on the vehicle.
In short, the price you pay for a tow package install comes down to the hitch class, wiring complexity, brake controller, and labor fees. Most customers fall within the aftermarket range of roughly $800–$1,400, with OEM factory options tending toward the higher end.
Factory vs aftermarket: what's the difference?
Aftermarket tow package
An aftermarket setup typically provides a standalone hitch, wiring harness, and optionally a brake controller. Prices vary by component quality and vehicle compatibility, but a complete install usually lands in the $500–$1,600 range, with most builds around $800–$1,400. Labor costs can rise if access to the frame or bumper requires extra work.
OEM factory tow package
Factory-installed or dealer-installed OEM tow packages usually involve integrated electronics and vehicle-specific harnesses designed to work with the car’s systems. The price for parts and labor often falls in the $600–$2,500 range, depending on the vehicle and the extent of integration. Heavier-duty options for trucks can push costs higher, and installing at the dealership may affect warranty considerations and alignment with factory specs.
Summary
Key takeaways: plan for roughly $500–$2,000 to install a tow package, with aftermarket setups typically at the lower end and factory OEM options at the higher end. Costs depend on hitch class, wiring complexity, presence of a brake controller, and labor rates. When shopping for quotes, request a line-item breakdown to understand how much each component adds to the total, and confirm whether the installation would affect your vehicle warranty.