If you tow a lot, you know how important it is to have a clear view of your surroundings. You also know that it’s often difficult to see all the obstacles around your truck and trailer, especially if you’re driving an HD truck and towing something big. It can also be difficult to do the necessary tests if you’re on your own. 

Fortunately, GMC and Chevrolet truck engineers have developed innovative technologies to make towing easier than ever. Whether you own a GMC Sierra Heavy Duty or a Chevrolet Silverado 1500, here’s a look at the key features that simplify towing.

Trailer light test

One of the most common problems when setting up a trailer is making sure the trailer lights work properly. No need to find someone to perform a lights test, as GMC and Chevrolet have introduced a trailer lights test function. All you have to do is press a button on the screen, and the truck and trailer will execute a specific lighting sequence, including brake lights, turn signals and so on. This makes testing the trailer lights a one-person job.

Customizable trailer profiles

Once you’ve connected a trailer, you can save it as a customized profile in the application. These profiles can help you track trailer mileage, provide trailer maintenance reminders and recall trailer brake controller settings, among other features.

Pre-trip checklists

If you’re less accustomed to towing, the Sierra’s infotainment screen can provide an illustrated step-by-step guide to what’s required to connect a trailer to the truck. These steps can be detailed to show illustrated examples of the connections to be made.

Transparent trailer view

One of the most impressive technologies is the transparent trailer view. This innovative technology allows the driver to “see through” the trailer, helping to visualize traffic behind the trailer when it is aligned with the truck. It can be particularly useful for navigating parking lots, merging into traffic or making tight turns.

To use the transparent trailer view, it is necessary to install a specific General Motors auxiliary camera at the rear of the trailer, following specific installation instructions.

In-vehicle towing application

The In-Vehicle Towing application, available on Chevrolet and GMC trucks equipped with the Advanced Towing System, is designed to enhance your towing experience. Depending on your vehicle’s equipment, it can offer an in-vehicle towing system, integration with the myChevrolet or myGMC mobile application, and much more.

To access the in-vehicle towing application, simply press the “TRAILERING” icon on your infotainment system.

Towing camera features

GMC and Chevrolet trucks are equipped with advanced towing cameras that make towing maneuvers much easier. You can access different camera views, including the transparent trailer view, if your vehicle is equipped with the necessary features.

Depending on your vehicle’s equipment, you may have access to views such as the load bed view, the rear view of the trailer, the view inside the trailer, and many others. These views are designed to help you align your trailer, monitor trailer contents and prevent collisions during lane changes.

Ultimately, whether you choose a GMC Sierra or Chevrolet Silverado, 1500, 2500 or 3500, you’ll benefit from cutting-edge technologies designed to make towing safer and easier. With features like the transparent trailer view and customizable trailer profiles, you’ll be able to tow like a pro, even if you’re new to towing.