Is Tow Package required with V6?

I'm considering getting a V6 on the SR5 Access Cab. My quotes are coming in with the tow package included. I'm certain I will never need to tow anything so I'd prefer to save on the cost by eliminating that. But a dealer is telling me that "the package with the extra cooling and electrical capabilities can only contribute to longer component life, and the cost is nominal".
My question, If I will never tow anything, is there really any need spend an extra $850 for this tow package? I don't consider $850 nominal.

 

Get the tow package. You get oil cooler, trans cooler, power steering cooler, bigger alternator, trailer wiring. You can't add some of these things later on

 

X2. Even if you did add them later, you'd be looking at the cost of parts, cost of install if you're not doing it yourself, and time. I wouldn't buy a Tacoma without the tow package.

 

Might as well get the 2.7 if you don't want any of the goodies

 

I think it is an option (it was on my window sticker) but you might have a hard time finding a V6 that the dealer didn't add the package. I have seen several 2.7L on dealer lots w/out the tow package. However, I don't think you will regret getting it as (IMO) it is better than the "add-on" units, nice wiring harness location, and should up the resale value of your SR5. BTW, the "sticker price" on V6 tow package on my window sticker was $650 (not $850) and that included class IV receiver hitch, engine/ATF/power steering cooler, 4 & 7 pin connector w/converter, and trailer sway bar. But, as you said, all that may not be worth it to you.

Good point Aussiek2000!

 

If it was me I would get the tow package, I look at 2 different one before I bought the 3rd one.
First one was listed as mint condition, I think he meant to say ya need to put a mint into it !
Second, beautiful truck and good price but no tow package. I told the nice gent his truck was awsome but need tow package and he told me I was the 4th person that day that loved the truck but needed tow package. Down the road if ya want to get rid of it that might make a big difference, Good luck on the truck man.

 

No tow package? might as well get a Prius... but for real what is an extra $850 when buying a $30,000 truck?

 

Thanks for all the replies. All sound like good points. I just want to be able to carry stuff from home depot for the house and yard etc. and make a short commute to work. I test drove the 2.7 and it seemed a little slow to me. Never having owner a truck before I just figured trucks are slower than cars. But then I read that the V6 actually gets the same or better mileage with more power. But geez this $29,000 truck is now up to a $33,000 truck.

 

I think the tow package is a good idea as it has a larger output alternator and extra coolers for the transmission etc. Never say never .. because if you have it, maybe later on you may want to haul something like a garden tractor etc: it would be great to have the tow add on and just rent a trailer anytime you need it.

Also, I just checked my sticker, and I paid $650.00 for mine not $850.00; your dealer may be marking the price up. It may seem more affordable if you got it for $650.00!

 

$33on a access cab sr5? I only paid $34 for a loaded off road

 

I bought my 2.7 for a tad over 25K. I'll never tow anything or get out on the interstate so the 2.7 works for me. I get just over 25 mpg with my truck. I use the cruise control every chance I get. (Set on 60)

 

As others have stated, the tow package is 650. If they are charging 850 go to the toyota website and pull up the tow package in front of them and make them give it to you for 650. I would get it even if you think you will never use it. You never know. It is worth it for what you get.

 

I paid $37K without taxes, title, warranty etc ... which at the time last year in Sept was MSRP for a TRD OR 4X4 AUTO with towing and NO TECH packages. That SR5 seems kind of high.

OP maybe check other dealers for price comparisons and this forum through the search. Now that the 2016 Taco has been out since Sept; some people are getting some good deals.

I was vehicleless when I bought mine; and there were no deals. I love my TACO.

 

Invoice for Towing is $579....If anything , it will help at resale time.

 

And, if nothing else, the additional coolers and heavier duty parts might make the difference between the truck lasting 300,000 and 400,00 miles. Even f you don't tow very much. Those Home Depot trips can add up over time...

 

Even though we do not plan to tow, like others, we wanted towing package for the extra coolers, bigger alternator etc.. My feeling is that the coolers are worth it by themselves.

 

Other posters have given their opinions on the value of the tow package.
However, if you are in the Gulf States distribution area (Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma and Texas), the tow package seems to be a "mandatory option".

Oh ... is "mandatory option" an oxymoron?

 

For your stated needs and budget concerns, why buy new?

Find a nice used version and save a pile of cash. (psst, it doesn't even have to be a Tacoma for your use. Even a mid 2000's Ranger would work!)

Or put a hitch on whatever you drive now and buy a modest utility trailer.

Invest the savings and thank me later

If you proceed with ordering, and insist on the v6, get the tow package. I've got an '04 Highlander with it, 107k, and I use a bike carrier. Sometimes. I feel confident I'm not overloading anything.

 

Get the tow package...

 

Get the tow package, you won't regret it.