2012 Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity & Payload (Charts)
This article provides detailed information on the towing and payload capacity of the 2012 Toyota Tundra, including charts and tables to help you understand these specifications better.
We will discuss the vehicle’s trims, engine types, towing package, and payloads, as well as its capability for 5th wheel and gooseneck towing, maximum tongue load, and GVWR.
By the end of the article, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the 2012 Toyota Tundra’s towing and payload capacities, which will enable you to make informed decisions when planning trips and carrying loads.
The 2012 Toyota Tundra has a maximum Towing Capacity between 4,500 – 10,400 lbs and a maximum payload capacity of 2,090 lbs. This can vary depending on factors such as the vehicle’s Curb Weight, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), Payload, and other factors.
2012 Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity and Payload Capacity Chart
Engines | Max Towing Capacity | Max Payload Capacity | GVWR | Curb Weight |
---|---|---|---|---|
Tundra 4.0L V6 | 4,900 lbs. | 1,715 lbs. | 6,400 lbs. | 4,950 lbs. |
Tundra 4.6L V8 | 8,600 lbs. | 1,870 lbs. | 6,900 lbs. | 5,550 lbs. |
Tundra 5.7L V8 | 10,400 lbs. | 2,090 lbs. | 7,200 lbs. | 5,645 lbs. |
This table shows the different configurations of the 2012 Toyota Tundra and their corresponding payload capacity and towing capacity along with the maximum GVWR and Curb Weight.
It is also crucial to remember that the total weight of the vehicle and the trailer should not surpass the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) specified for the Toyota Tundra.
Here I’ve collected all the 2012 Toyota Tundra towing and payload capacity information from the official Toyota resources that include the 2012 Toyota Tundra Brochure and 2012 Toyota Tundra.
Table of Contents
- 2012 Toyota Tundra vs. Competitors Towing Capacity
- 2012 Toyota Tundra Overview
- 2012 Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity By Cabs
- 2012 Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity By Engines
- 2012 Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity By Trims
- 2012 Toyota Tundra Payload Capacity
- Towing Package for 2012 Toyota Tundra
- 2012 Toyota Tundra 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Towing
- Maximum Tongue Load of Toyota Tundra
- What is the 2012 Toyota Tundra Curb Weight and GVWR?
- Useful Resources
- Conclusion
2012 Toyota Tundra Overview
One of the first things you’ll notice about the 2012 Toyota Tundra is its range of bed sizes.
2012 Toyota Tundra comes in three different lengths: short, standard, and long. The short bed measures 5.5 ft, while the standard bed is 6.5 ft and the long bed is 8.1 ft.
Another important consideration when choosing a 2012 Toyota Tundra is the cab configuration. There are three options available: the Regular Cab, the Double Cab, and the CrewMax. All cabs provide seating for up to six passengers, but there are some key differences between them.
While there are several different configurations available for the 2012 Toyota Tundra, there are three engine options: a 4.0 L V6, a 5.7 L V8, and a 4.6 L V8.
2012 Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity By Cabs
The 2012 Toyota Tundra offers three cab choices to cater to different needs and preferences: CrewMax, Double Cab, and Regular Cab.
Each cab option comes with its own set of configurations, engine sizes, payload capacities, and towing capacities.
We’ll delve into each cab option and break down its features to provide easy-to-digest information.
CREWMAX:
The CrewMax cab is the largest cab option in the 2012 Toyota Tundra lineup, offering a spacious interior and comfortable seating for up to six passengers.
Here are the key features of the CrewMax cab:
- Configuration: Short Bed (5.5 ft.)
- Engine sizes: 4.6L V8 and 5.7L V8 available
- Payload capacity: 4×2 5.7L V8 up to 1,665 lb., 4×2 4.6L V8 rated for 1,550-lb. maximum payload
- Towing capacity: 4×2 5.7L V8 up to 9900 lb. when properly equipped
DOUBLE CAB:
The Double Cab offers more space than the Regular Cab, but not as much as the CrewMax cab. It’s a great option for those who need more space than the Regular Cab but don’t need the extra space of the CrewMax cab.
Here are the key features of the Double Cab:
- Configurations: Standard Bed (6.5 ft.) or Long Bed (8.1 ft.) available
- Engine sizes: 4.0L V6, 4.6L V8, and 5.7L V8 available
- Payload capacity: 4×2 5.7L V8 Standard Bed up to 1,745 lb., 4×2 4.6L V8 Standard Bed rated for 1,615 lb. maximum payload
- Towing capacity: 4×2 5.7L V8 Standard Bed up to 10,100 lb. when properly equipped, V6 Standard Bed offers maximum towing capacity up to 4500 lb.
REGULAR CAB:
The Regular Cab is the smallest cab option in the 2012 Toyota Tundra lineup, offering a compact and efficient truck that’s perfect for those who don’t need a lot of space.
Here are the key features of the Regular Cab:
- Configurations: Standard Bed (6.5 ft.) or Long Bed (8.1 ft.) available
- Engine sizes: 4.0L V6, 4.6L V8, and 5.7L V8 available
- Payload capacity: 4×2 5.7L V8 Long Bed up to 2090 lb. when properly equipped, 4×2 4.6L V8 Standard Bed rated for 1870-lb. maximum payload
- Towing capacity: 4×2 5.7L V8 Long Bed features a standard towing capacity of up to 10,400 lb., V6 Standard Bed offers a maximum towing capacity of up to 4900 lb.
2012 Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity By Engines
The 2012 Toyota Tundra is powered by three engine options – the 4.0 L V6 engine, I-FORCE 5.7 L V8 engine, and the I-FORCE 4.6 L V8 engine.
4.0L V6 Engine
The base engine is a 4.0-liter aluminum V6 DOHC 24-valve with Dual Independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i).
This engine delivers 270 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 278 lb.-ft. of torque at 4400 rpm. It is a solid choice for everyday driving and light-hauling tasks.
With the right equipment, a 2012 Toyota Tundra truck with a 4.0L V6 engine can tow up to 4,900 lbs.
It’s important to note that this maximum towing capacity requires the addition of a towing package.
4.6L i-FORCE® V8 engine
This 4.6-liter aluminum i-FORCE V8 DOHC 32-valve engine also features Dual Independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) and delivers 310 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 327 lb.-ft. of torque at 3400 rpm.
It provides a good balance of power and fuel efficiency and can handle medium-duty hauling and towing tasks.
With the right equipment, this 2012 Toyota Tundra truck with a 4.6L V8 engine can tow up to 8,600 lbs. That’s more than enough to handle most trailers, boats, and other heavy-duty equipment.
It’s important to note that this maximum towing capacity requires the addition of a towing package.
5.7L i-FORCE® V8 engine
The 5.7-liter aluminum i-FORCE V8 DOHC 32-valve engine is the next powerful engine option.
This engine delivers 381 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 401 lb.-ft. of torque at 3600 rpm. It is ideal for heavy-duty towing and hauling and can handle the toughest jobs with ease.
While there is also another variation known as the 5.7-liter aluminum i-FORCE V8 DOHC E85 Flex Fuel engine. This engine is capable of running on E85 ethanol fuel and is available on 4×4 drive configurations.
It delivers the same power as the standard 5.7-liter engine, with 381 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 401 lb.-ft. of torque at 3600 rpm.
With the right equipment, the maximum towing capacity of a 2012 Toyota Tundra with a 5.7L V8 engine is 10,400 lbs. This engine provides the maximum towing capacity among the other engine options.
It’s important to note that this maximum towing capacity requires the addition of a towing package.
Engines | Max Towing Capacity | Max Payload Capacity |
---|---|---|
Tundra 4.0L V6 | 4,900 lbs. | 1,715 lbs. |
Tundra 4.6L V8 | 8,600 lbs. | 1,870 lbs. |
Tundra 5.7L V8 | 10,400 lbs. | 2,090 lbs. |
2012 Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity By Trims
The 2012 Toyota Tundra comes in 2 different trims, each with its own set of features and options. Here’s the list of the trims:
- Tundra-Grade
- Limited
Let’s take a closer look at the towing capacity by trim for the 2012 Toyota Tundra:
2012 Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity Tundra Trim
The 2012 Toyota Tundra trim offers a towing capacity ranging from 4,500 to 10,400 lbs depending on the drive, engine, cab size, and bed size.
The GCWR (gross combined weight rating) for all configurations between 14,000-16,000 lbs.
Engine | Cab Size | Bed Size | Max Towing Capacity (lbs) | GCWR (lbs) |
---|---|---|---|---|
4.0 L 4×2 | Regular Cab | Standard | 4,900 | 14,000 |
4.0 L 4×2 | Regular Cab | Long | 4,800 | 14,000 |
4.0 L 4×2 | Double Cab | Standard | 4,500 | 14,000 |
4.6 L 4×2 | Regular Cab | Standard | 8,600 | 14,000 |
4.6 L 4×2 | Double Cab | Standard | 8,200 | 16,000 |
4.6 L 4×2 | CrewMax | Short | 8,100 | 16,000 |
5.7 L 4×2 | Regular Cab | Long | 10,400 | 14,000 |
5.7 L 4×2 | Double Cab | Standard | 10,100 | 16,000 |
5.7 L 4×2 | Double Cab | Long | 10,000 | 14,000 |
5.7 L 4×2 | CrewMax | Short | 9,900 | 16,000 |
Engine | Cab Size | Bed Size | Max Towing Capacity (lbs) | GCWR (lbs) |
---|---|---|---|---|
4.6 L 4×4 | Double Cab | Standard | 7,900 | 16,000 |
4.6 L 4×4 | CrewMax | Short | 7,700 | 16,000 |
5.7 L 4×4 | Regular Cab | Standard | 9,200 | 14,000 |
5.7 L 4×4 | Regular Cab | Long | 10,000 | 14,000 |
5.7 L 4×4 | Double Cab | Standard | 9,700 | 16,000 |
5.7 L 4×4 | Double Cab | Long | 9,800 | 14,000 |
5.7 L 4×4 | CrewMax | Short | 9,000 | 16,000 |
2012 Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity Limited Trim
The 2012 Toyota Tundra Limited trim also has a towing capacity between 9,000 and 10,000 lbs. The GCWR for all configurations is 14,000 lbs.
Engine | Cab Size | Bed Size | Towing Capacity (lbs) | GCWR (lbs) |
---|---|---|---|---|
5.7 L 4×2 | Double | Standard | 10,000 | 14,000 |
5.7 L 4×2 | CrewMax | Short | 9,300 | 14,000 |
5.7 L 4×4 | Double | Standard | 9,800 | 14,000 |
5.7 L 4×4 | CrewMax | Short | 9,000 | 14,000 |
Not sure about your Toyota specs? Try out this VIN Decoder to find out or read more about How to Find a VIN Number.
2012 Toyota Tundra Payload Capacity
Firstly, let’s define what we mean by “payload capacity.”
Payload capacity is the total weight that a vehicle can safely carry, including passengers, cargo, and any accessories or modifications.
It’s important to note that payload capacity is not the same as towing capacity, which refers to the amount of weight that a vehicle can tow behind it.
The 2012 Toyota Tundra has a respectable payload capacity, with the ability to carry up to 2,090 pounds.
However, it’s worth noting that this number can vary depending on the specific model and configuration of the truck.
Let’s take a closer look at the different options available for the 2012 Toyota Tundra and their respective payload capacities.
2012 Toyota Tundra Payload Capacity Tundra Trim
Starting with the Tundra model, the 2012 Toyota Tundra has a payload capacity between 1,325 lbs and 2,090 lbs.
This varies based on the drive type, engine size, cab size, bed size, curb weight, and GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating).
Engine | Cab Size | Bed Size | Payload Capacity (lbs) | Curb Weight | GVWR (lbs) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
4.0 L 4×2 | Regular Cab | Standard | 1,620 | 4,580 | 6,200 |
4.0 L 4×2 | Regular Cab | Long | 1,715 | 4,685 | 6,400 |
4.0 L 4×2 | Double Cab | Standard | 1,450 | 4,950 | 6,400 |
4.6 L 4×2 | Regular Cab | Standard | 1,870 | 4,730 | 6,600 |
4.6 L 4×2 | Double Cab | Standard | 1,615/1,465 | 5,085 | 6,700 |
4.6 L 4×2 | CrewMax | Short | 1,550/1,385 | 5,250 | 6,800 |
5.7 L 4×2 | Regular Cab | Long | 2,090 | 4,910 | 7,000 |
5.7 L 4×2 | Double Cab | Standard | 1,745/1,530 | 5,155 | 6,900 |
5.7 L 4×2 | Double Cab | Long | 1,645 | 5,355 | 7,000 |
5.7 L 4×2 | CrewMax | Short | 1,665/1,535 | 5,355 | 7,000 |
Engine | Cab Size | Bed Size | Payload Capacity (lbs) | Curb Weight | GVWR (lbs) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
4.6 L 4×4 | Double Cab | Standard | 1,515/1,315 | 5,385 | 6,900 |
4.6 L 4×4 | CrewMax | Short | 1,450/1,275 | 5,550 | 7,000 |
5.7 L 4×4 | Regular Cab | Standard | 1,720 | 5,080 | 6,800 |
5.7 L 4×4 | Regular Cab | Long | 2,020 | 5,180 | 7,200 |
5.7 L 4×4 | Double Cab | Standard | 1,640/1,450 | 5,460 | 7,100 |
5.7 L 4×4 | Double Cab | Long | 1,540 | 5,460 | 7,200 |
5.7 L 4×4 | CrewMax | Short | 1,575/1,375 | 5,645 | 7,200 |
An example from the above chart is the 4.6 L 4×2 Double Cab Standard, which has a payload capacity of 1,615/1,465 lbs, a curb weight of 5,085 lbs, and a GVWR of 6,700 lbs.
2012 Toyota Tundra Payload Capacity Limited Trim
The 2012 Limited Toyota Tundra is a robust truck with a payload capacity ranging from 1,555 to 1,720 pounds. Depending on the drive, engine, cab size, and bed size, the payload capacity can vary.
Engine | Cab Size | Bed Size | Payload Capacity (lbs) | Curb Weight (lbs) | GVWR (lbs) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
5.7 L 4×2 | Double Cab | Standard | 1,720 | 5,180 | 6,900 |
5.7 L 4×4 | Double Cab | Standard | 1,620 | 5,480 | 7,100 |
5.7 L 4×2 | CrewMax | Short | 1,645 | 5,355 | 7,000 |
5.7 L 4×4 | CrewMax | Short | 1,555 | 5,645 | 7,200 |
For instance, the 4×2 Limited Tundra with a 5.7 L engine, Double cab, and Standard bed has a payload capacity of 1,720 lbs, while the 4×4 Limited Tundra with the same engine and cab size but a Standard bed has a payload capacity of 1,620 lbs.
Similarly, the 4×2 Limited Tundra with a 5.7 L engine, CrewMax cab, and Short bed can carry up to 1,645 lbs, while the 4×4 version of the same configuration can carry up to 1,555 lbs.
The curb weight and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) also vary based on the configuration.
It’s also worth noting that curb weight plays a role in determining a vehicle’s payload capacity.
Curb weight refers to the total weight of the vehicle without any passengers or cargo.
The higher the curb weight, the less payload capacity the vehicle will have.
Towing Package for 2012 Toyota Tundra
While there isn’t a major towing package that significantly impacts the Tundra’s towing capabilities, there are several features that come standard on all trims that make towing easier and safer.
The tow package for 5.7L V8 includes:
- Integrated towing receiver hitch: The Tundra comes equipped with a built-in receiver hitch that makes it easy to attach a trailer.
- 4.30 axle ratio: This helps provide better acceleration when towing heavy loads.
- TOW/HAUL Mode Switch: This feature adjusts the transmission shift points to optimize performance when towing.
- Trailer brake controller: The Tundra’s trailer brake controller helps ensure that your trailer brakes are synchronized with your truck’s brakes for safer stopping.
- Heavy-duty battery and 170-amp alternator: These features provide ample power to run all of your towing equipment without draining your battery.
- 4-/7-pin connector: The Tundra comes equipped with both a 4-pin and 7-pin connector, making it easy to connect to different types of trailers.
- Trailer Sway Control: This feature uses sensors to detect sway caused by crosswinds or uneven roads and applies brakes selectively to help keep the trailer under control.
While the tow package for 4.6L V8 includes:
- Towing hitch receiver (4.6L V8 models)
2012 Toyota Tundra 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Towing
If you’ve got a 2012 Toyota Tundra and you’re thinking of towing a travel trailer, you might be wondering if a 5th Wheel/Gooseneck hitch towing is good. The answer is YES.
The 2012 Toyota Tundra has a towing capacity that ranges between 4,500 and 10,400 pounds depending on the options.
To determine the maximum trailer weight, you need to find the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) which is the maximum allowed tow rating of the vehicle weight and the trailer weight combined.
Subtracting the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of the truck from the GCWR will give you the maximum Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) that can be safely towed.
The information tag located inside the driver door jamb provides this information.
Overall, the towing capacity of the 2012 Toyota Tundra is dependent on several factors, including the options and the trailer weight.
It is important to determine the maximum GTW and to choose the appropriate 5th Wheel/Gooseneck and base rails for a safe and successful towing setup.
Maximum Tongue Load of Toyota Tundra
If you’re planning on towing a trailer with your Toyota Tundra, it’s important to know the maximum tongue load that your vehicle can handle.
The tongue load is the amount of weight/force that the trailer tongue exerts on the trailer hitch and it’s crucial to stay within the recommended limits to ensure safe and efficient towing.
So, what is the max tongue load of a Tundra? Well, according to Toyota, for all of their engines, a tongue weight of 11% should not be exceeded.
This means that if you have a max towing capacity of 10,400 lbs, your tongue weight should not exceed 1,144 lbs.
It’s also worth noting that you should not tow above 1000 lbs on any 2012 Tundra without a trailer with a braking system.
Additionally, if you plan on towing a trailer weighing over 5,000 lbs, you’ll need to use a weight-distributing hitch.
One method involves using a specialized scale that measures the weight directly from the hitch ball.
What is the 2012 Toyota Tundra Curb Weight and GVWR?
Before we dive into the specifics of the 2012 Toyota Tundra’s GVWR, let’s first define what it means.
The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the maximum weight that a vehicle is designed to carry including passengers, cargo, and fuel.
It includes the weight of the vehicle itself plus anything else that is loaded onto it.
Exceeding the GVWR can be dangerous as it puts extra strain on the vehicle’s suspension, brakes, and other components.
Useful Resources
2012 Toyota Tundra Brochure (Towing Capacity Guide) PDF
Conclusion
If you’re planning to tow a trailer, 5th wheel, or a Gooseneck, the 2012 Toyota Tundra is an excellent choice.
With a maximum Towing Capacity between 4,500 and 10,400 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 2,090 pounds, depending on the configuration, the 2012 Toyota Tundra truck is built to handle even the toughest jobs.
Plus, with its rugged design, spacious and comfortable interior, and advanced safety features, the 2012 Toyota Tundra is a well-rounded choice that’s sure to impress.
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