I’m almost certain I did not get the tow hitch package

https://preview.redd.it/ynsmjqnvu1be1.png?width=935&format=png&auto=webp&s=d02c14ba4b0c8b7a9d3c249a3c4678947dbf9f0b [https://shop.tesla.com/product/model-y-tow-package](https://shop.tesla.com/product/model-y-tow-package)

Dang, maybe I need to check mine

But I’m guessing the bumper wasn’t the right bumper and they may be missing the tow software?

lol congrats?

If you bought at end of quarter or something they may have just given you a car with a hitch to get the order on the books rather than wait for your car to come in.

Was your car used? It was probably missed or they removed the tow mode software when reselling

Just go to service center and say you got the hitch installed and they forgot to update the tow package option and if they can enable it.

Brb gonna check mine I really want a hitch.

You can also check the screen There was an option to select tow mode I believe I saw when I was using a loaner vehicle equipped with tow package

I swear they are so shady doing stuff like that. I hate capitalism.

Shady stuff like giving OP a better car and saving him 1k? Those bastards!

Yeah it's the worst when a company gives you a free upgrade. Sneaky fucking bastards.

yes, imagine getting an extra to your car for free as a product of capitalism and being sad about it

It's fucking disgusting, Tesla should be ashamed

Wait what, you have to be pay to get a towing hitch on a Cybertruck? What a fucking scam.

What's next? Is that bastard Musk going to come over and mow my lawn?

If the tow options aren’t visible in your software it’s easy enough to enable them through the maintenance login. A simple google will give you instructions.

Model Y, check the tag

Model Y

>I swear they are so shady doing stuff like that. I hate capitalism. Even if that is what happened, this is a free upgrade. Do you have one single anecdote of Tesla secretly *downgrading* a customer's order to get the sale through by end of quarter? That would be a knock on Tesla and be shady. This? Not so much. As a side tangent, you're posting this from a smartphone, computer, or tablet; you're using cellular data or WiFi; you're posting on one of the largest message boards in the world about the most successful EV manufacturer in the world. All of the above are products of capitalism. Say what you will about exploitative or "late stage" capitalism; those are all fair criticisms. But the lack of self-awareness it takes to say "I hate capitalism" while clearly benefiting from that system is incredibly ironic.

Isn't tow mode when your car is getting towed? I.e. not when you're towing.

A free upgrade is shady? At what age were you dropped on your head?

Are you suggesting the state should make cars?

I missed it, thanks for correcting.

So God damn shady giving a free upgrade. How dare they.

Yes

Can you provide link? Or simple instructions. I know how to get into the service mode.

You hate capitalism until you end up being part of any other system, terrible take

Do you have the knock-out on your bumper?

Jokes on him, I don't have one.

That fucker will probably bring you one

Well? ;)

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Two different things. There is a tow mode for when your vehicle is being towed and there is another tow mode for when you have the tow package and you’re towing something. They are in completely different tabs of the menu.

As long as your lights work, I wouldn’t worry about it because I always disable trailer mode as you can’t do keep lane steering with it enabled

It's called Trailer Mode for use with towing a trailer. [trailer mode](https://www.tesla.com/ownersmanual/modely/en_us/GUID-F5C80FF5-8DE3-4750-8BAF-0DCC0CFA0C5C.html#TRAILERMODE)

I too do not want to be the victim of free upgrades? How do I ensure on my futur Tesla purchase I get what I paid for or less?

imagine they somehow software locked the tow hitch? 🤣

OP needs a Lada! 🤣

I see tesla is still sticking to ye olden masking tape for the 12v system…

Unfortunately, such thing does not exist. I just went through all the pages in my car. I think those instructions are only applicable if your car already has a tow packages I have aftermarket and it does not show up. I did search and was not able to find any instructions on Google or forums, etc.

*BMW has entered the chat* Tow hitch subscription service coming in 2026.

The tow hut does not include the ball. The hitch is the hole it mounts into.

How does a free upgrade on a car equate to you hating capitalism?

I’m surprised you are even able to use Reddit.

There’s been cases of Tesla reselling used vehicles that originally had FSD that now have been de-contented into EAP only. Looking at inventory makes it still look like it’s the MO. Some may have had FSD/EAP removed too, seems like they want to give customers the choice.

I believe all model Y bumpers are the same. Unsure about software though. There’s a process for retrofitting a tow bar if you look at the service manual, but can’t recall what it says about configuration (I only skimmed it once out of curiosity).

Why is it 300 extra when you add it after? Is Stealth hitch better ?

Because when they're building the car, they just attach it before the bumper goes on. When you buy it afterwards, they have to disassemble your car (remove bumper cover) and attach the hardware, then reattach the bumper cover. So you're essentially paying $300 labor for them to do it afterwards.

Screw your logic but yea…

Seriously, how’d it go?????

If you don't have Tow mode or you disable Tow Mode while towing, please be sure to also disable Emergency Obsticle avoidance while towing. The last thing you want is the car making an evasive maneuver to avoid a collision and then that auto meneuver causing an accident.

It was blank :( that trim piece was tough to pry off and not damage anything. Had to be careful.

It's not really my logic LOL When you buy it afterwards you pay $1,300 + tax. And shipping/Install cost is included. (same as if/when you buy the HomeLink.. install included in price).

No, you don’t have to do that to reach the hitch. There’s a small plastic plate that is clipped in over the hitch and it’s removable. I have the tow package and use it regularly. I put the cover back on when not in use. OP prob just pulled the entire thing off in prep for a full install

They did that to me when I bought my model Y at the end of spring Quarter. I had ordered one, but it obviously wasn’t going to be ready in time so I took one that was an inventory and they threw in the tow hitch for free. But they did tell me they were doing that.

FCA does it


I mean, they kinda already do. You cannot access tow mode with an aftermarket installed hitch.

Go to software hold down where is Model. When prompted enter service.

The stealth hitch has a higher tongue weight. May want to replace it still.

That’s what he’s talking about.

You’re right. I misread that and thought they asked if you have to remove the whole bumper to find it. Oh well

I did mine too….nothing 😔

https://www.reddit.com/r/teslamotors/s/QV8THFE0KE

It happened with me when I ordered an AWD and received a performance model 3 without the add-ons, just the speed.

Teslas need software for a towing hitch…?

So what? When I sold my old model 3, I took off the 19" wheels that I had put on and replaced with the original 18". Same thing. Once they bought the car from the original owner, and presumably gave them proper market value for the car with FSD, it was their car to upgrade or downgrade as they want before reselling

You either bought used or an inventory car. That's obviously the tow package.

I mean that’s what that link says in the description of what you get

Yes, it disables rear sensors when a trailer is attached.

Ah that makes sense. Wasn’t sure what would change software wise. Thanks!

What in the chatgpt garbage is this shit.

I would hope it also changes braking, acceleration and follow distance. But there shouldn't be separate software, plugging something in and sensing mass should make it automatic.

I believe it also attempts to adjust the range, based on weight and wind resistance inefficiencies.

Maybe it was a firmware upgrade

Well, Tesla of 2025 is almost the VW of the 1940s.... Great cars, and a lot of people liked their fuhrer...

I'm sensing a bit of ASD - not targeting anyone BTW cuz I got a ND mind myself - somewhere, I sense, that sarcasm was lost and could no longer be found. It was much better when it was a game of words. I lost the game.

FSD is limited to 80mph Hehe

You almost certainly did get the tow hitch package, you just didn't pay for it.

He had to go buy a trailer

That

I agree. Which is why on Reddit, and other online platforms typically you’d used a “/s” to denote the use of sarcasm.

If you play your cards right he'll buy you a pony to eat the grass.

And yet here you are

LMAO 🤣🤣🤣🤣

Now I’m curious, how do I check I have the tow hitch? lol

Same 350lbs for 2023-24 at least for Tesla, Stealth, and Forklift. And if rated limits are a concern, once you have 350lbs of tongue weight, there's not a ton of payload left inside either.

I know how to enter the service mode. Just saying option to turn on trailer mode or change any kind of configuration that would allow to trailer mode to appear on their dynamics menu does not exist within the service mode.

More than likely someone else is complaining they don't have the hitch they paid for.

Oof on most regular vehicles you would enjoy no extended service warranties cause of that presence

What model year is your Y?

I hope after. I didn't know that, thank you for enlightening me. It was getting close to midnight so now I can check that "learn something new" checkbox on the whiteboard next to my bed, instead of a night of sleepless torture as that unchecked box is flashing flashing next to my head. Is that /s or just /hilarious :-) }}}

and wait they were serious? Dang. Not the first one that was /s all the way to the bank, baby.

I paid $750 for the hitch and $1000 for the gray color. Looks like they’re both free now.

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See if you have trailer mode under Dynamics

Like the other comment says, this is a really bad idea based on how the safety system works.

They often will ship with the hitch installed but have Trailer mode disabled (hidden and unavailable) in the software.

You still have to get it enabled? Lol

How long ago was this? They used to offer “stealth performance” models where you got the increased acceleration but none of the other stuff. It was the same price as the full performance model. I had one because at the time the performance models came with summer tires, which I didn’t want, and I preferred the ride of the 20s over the 21s.

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Are you upset or something?

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Yeah -- it'll fall off if you don't /s

Crazy cause we were certain we got a tow hitch and there isn’t one.

why would the car know there's a piece of metal attached to it if it wasn't supposed to be

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this is the wrong sub to make stuff like that up in

Its been beaten to death but monthly subscription for readily installed option is still the worst thing to have ever hit the automotive market

Basically every car since 2005 does. You could always tap all the wires and create all kinds of electrical gremlins but cars for a long time have had settings for a towing package.

I mean ever heard of onstar? Ford Sync? Mercedes mbrace? What about buying dlc for a video game? I guess I really dont get the hate here… Im the opposite and wish all cars allowed us to buy the cheap version and pay for options down the line without hassle, if ever desired. This shit is already installed in literally every area of our lives including other car companies, but somehow we draw the line at Tesla lol.

Lucky

Yep when I had mine installed, the ranger didn't have to do anything and plugging something into the electronics automatically triggered tow mode.

It's probably sour grapes. Someone else is getting for free something I paid for. Therefore the thing is worthless. Therefore I was cheated. Therefore capitalism something something.

That’s not uncommon. VAG-cars need it too, I know from experience.

> I mean ever heard of onstar? Ford Sync? Mercedes mbrace? Those at least maake sense because you have to pay the celluar carriers for the data transfer, often around the world. Installing a tow hitch and charging you monthly to use it is different

You’re so defensive you missed his point, he didn’t say other brands didn’t do it. He said owning the ability but then having to pay to enable it.. is bad. Which it is.

Why?

It should also adjust the braking dynamics to account for the extra load on the back https://ownersmanual.kia.com/docview/webhelp/doc/22b6fe5c-1bef-47d4-bff9-20336b7b36d6/topics/chapter6_7_11.html Many manufacturers advertise this in their vehicles, it’s standard software from Continental and Bosch in their ABS control units

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The problem is that it's not a "cheap version". You're paying the same full price and losing features unless you unlock them, which is a shitty practice in any field, including video games.

I was part of the first deliveries of them in Canada. Officially got it Oct 2018.

Wow flex. Gtfo

Nonono.... a 100 lb Browny, so a 100 lb person of Spanish descent?

I recently purchased an older Model X and had a similar experience. The vehicle had the tow bar and connectors and would detect when a trailer was attached, but wouldn’t let me use the tow mode. A Tesla ranger quoted me $750 to have the software update done to enable this. After doing a little research, I ended up purchasing the needed data cable from Amazon for around $40 and the Tesla Toolbox software for $150 (I went with the month long subscription for some other things I was doing as well). After several hours of effort, I finally figured out how to make the update - let’s just say that the instructions others has posted online were no longer correct for the latest edition of Toolbox. Couple that with the software not being very intuitive and that was the better part of my Thanksgiving afternoon! Still saved $$$ at least. :)

Yawn..

I have an extra model model Y rear bumper with the small cover for the hitch it has a small dent to it if anybody wants it

My 2015 Jeep GC needs software for a towing hitch… all new vehicles need the software for the hitch power cord… it’s not new or unique to Tesla

I had one of the "stealth Performance models" that was one of the first American deliveries. When I ordered, they had an optional "Performance Upgrade Package" (or PUP) that was an extra $5k to $6k with larger red Brembo brakes and 20" wheels, plus a spoiler and aluminum pedals, but I didn't want them. Are you saying you got the PUP for free as an incentive?

You have to make sure you have the infotainment upgrade to be able to set the trailer mode so you have trailer brake/reverse lights.

People like you are why Reddit sucks. Imagine getting a free upgrade and complaining about the weight, not realizing or not having the basic ability to take it off.

19’s instead of 20’s?

Sorry - was referring to the Y.

Yeah, must really suck when a company has the audacity to change prices on something they own and make!!! So shady.

Ah yes, that’s right. Originally, there was the Performance package and the PUP. Around 2020, they collapsed those into a single option and made the PUP upgrades standard on the Performance. When I got a Model Y in 2020, they had already collapsed the line into just the Performance, but you were still able to get the old non-PUP performance, which at that time was referred to as the “Stealth Performance”. Unfortunately, since there was no longer a distinction for non-PUP Performance models in their system, it was $10k for the upgrade, which I paid. Not a great value, but it was exactly what I wanted so I went for it. Also, this was when the prices were fluctuating wildly, so it was hard to nail down exactly what was a good deal and what wasn’t. I had that car for a few years and now have a 2023 Performance package Y and my initial disdain for the 21” rims was founded. I cracked a rim last month going over a pothole. Never happened on my Y with the 20s and I definitely hit bigger potholes over the life of that car.

Comparing Onstar to paying a monthly fee to use a hitch. You don’t get out much do you?

You obviously know that isn’t true. There’s no charge to “activate” the tow hitch. It just shows additional towing options on the driving settings. Things there’s no reason to show a vehicle without a hitch

Yeah, the 21" rims are terrible for range and potholes. They look great, but they're not justified. The first thing I did with my Performance Model 3 "Highland" was buy 18" rims from TSportline.

I would just tow with it anyways, then take Tesla to court (in event of an incident) for having the safety/emergency equipment on board (trailer brakes and lights) but not enabling me to use them once a trailer has been attached to the vehicle, since that much you can still obviously do.

https://preview.redd.it/ngf6qievp8be1.jpeg?width=1125&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=38f57f88fa5efac98c768cdd33e2ce195b8ac884 Check in app specs. It will show. I got mine mid December and ready to pick vehicle had it.

Actually I hold it against the other car companies, too. It's why I'd rather drive a mid 00's shitbox than most new vehicles

This is how I got the fancy wheels on my X back in 2019. They told me they would take them off before I picked it up, but they never did.

What does the screen say you have?

LOL, Tow!

I'm pretty sure the Y comes with this standard

I thought you were saying your model 3 got a free hitch 😂

I paid nothing additional and actually had no idea that the red underline in my car info screen meant anything.

You must not Tesla much because thats not how it works. You dont need a subscription for the tow mode to work. You pay one time for install of the hitch and tow mode. No different than paying for a towing package on any other car.

All this to “own” a car

It's literally just to enable the option in the vehicle's UI. Otherwise the driver sees an option that they can't enable. It's not unlike adding a button to the inside of your car. OP has the trailer installed, but since he didn't option it, he might not have the "button" installed.

The price you pay for the car does not include this feature so yes it is the cheap version. Just like power door locks or any other trim level on any other car. The difference is you can buy the car now and get whatever trim you want later, instantly, with now labor fee or tech visit. How is that not better? If you buy the ford limited it will never be a platinum no matter if you want the other options down the road or not.

You got the tow hitch now. Just deal with it. And now you can tow stuff. Be happy.

I bet you somehow have to pay to “software unlock” this 😂

Back in 2018 they were giving people who ordered LR AWD cars Model 3 Performance Stealth cars to get more deliveries out the door. Was pretty neat lol.

This is literally the “BMW heated seats drama” but for a towing package.

I don't see how it compares. Yes, the heated seats are installed and you need a subscription to use it, which is pretty lame. In OP's case, the tow package was mistakenly installed/shipped out of the factory as such. They might just need to explain this to Service who can then install the update (possibly just paying for labor). If they don't want to do that, they can still use the tow hitch, just without lights, as is the case with any aftermarket tow hitch that isn't compatible with Tow Mode. In summary: OP got a free tow hitch, why is that a problem?

put in a service ticket. they may do it remotely

They absolutely won’t haha Mine is not even a model y, I am towing with model 3 :)

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"Smart" comment.

I don't see it as a big deal. It's not something that can be OTA'd because when you naturally order the OEM hitch, it's delivered to Service where they install and then enable the hitch in the UI. It's a part of that process. OP has the option to go in and finish the process. They can still tow things without lights. As for aftermarket, it looks like there are some aftermarket trailer light options, though understandably they aren't as well integrated as the OEM option. This option is still here, though, but looks like OP has the OEM harness installed already as well so why not go the OEM route? Tesla is not holding a gun to your head forcing you to pay to subscribe to the tow option. It's the nature of having everything software- and screen-related on modern cars. You can't DIY the UI because that introduces safety and security concerns.

> The problem isn't the free tow hitch. The problem is that you have to go back to the manufacturer for them to update a setting so you can actually use it.  > > You would rather people without the tow package have a grayed out section constantly staring at them in the menus? Quit b////ng about something that has no impact on you. All manufacturers have hidden settings that have to be enabled.

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19s on a 3

Yeah, I had a Y.

Imagine buying a Tesla nowadays lmao

Do you still have your window sticker? It would have it on there.

I've seen some pretty ridiculous things being towed by a Model 3, but I sure as heck wouldn't do it!

I drive a GMC 1500 and when I plug in my trailer plug (think lights and or breaks) it automatically knows to kick in certain functions. There’s no greyed out boxes. Non tard trucks don’t have these made up problems.

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Thanks Elon

Now I need to check my Model Y to see if I got one lol

Model and year, got me wondering if I should get the dremel out lol

If you try to install the trailer wiring harness using the system plug in the back bumper area, it will not get power because Tesla will not activate trailer mode unless you pay them $1300 for them to do it. I got $170 Hitch from dry tight put it in myself and now I regret it because the $60 third-party cord won’t work. Tesla says they have to do the entire thing from start to finish which is a 100% total cash grab. I’m really disappointed. I literally need to tow a small trailer for 20 miles and I have to go rent a truck now simply becauseTesla is gonna hold me hostage.