Best Winch for Car Trailer: Top Picks for 2024

When it comes to hauling a car trailer, having a reliable winch can make all the difference. A winch is an essential tool for loading and unloading vehicles onto a trailer, and it can also come in handy in emergency situations. However, with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to determine which winch is the best fit for your needs.

The best winch for a car trailer should be powerful enough to handle the weight of your vehicle, easy to install and operate, and durable enough to withstand the elements. When shopping for a winch, it’s essential to pay attention to the weight capacity, line length, and motor strength to ensure that you’re getting a product that can handle your specific needs.

After researching and testing various winches, we’ve identified the top options for car trailers. In this article, we’ll break down the features and benefits of each product to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a professional driver or a weekend warrior, we’ve got you covered.

Best Winches for Car Trailers

We know how important it is to have a reliable winch when it comes to towing your car trailer. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various winches to bring you our top picks for the best winches for car trailers. Our list includes winches that are durable, easy to use, and can handle heavy loads. Check out our roundup below to find the perfect winch for your car trailer needs.

VEVOR Electric Winch 13000lb Load Truck Winch

If you are looking for a reliable and powerful winch for your car trailer, the VEVOR Electric Winch 13000lb Load Truck Winch may be a great option for you.

Pros

• The advanced synthetic rope is durable and efficient, making it perfect for heavy-duty applications.
• The waterproof and dustproof design ensures that the winch can withstand harsh weather conditions.
• The wireless remote control kit allows you to operate the winch from a safe distance.

Cons

• The winch is a bit heavy, which may make it difficult to install and remove.
• The instruction manual is not very clear, which may make it challenging to set up the winch.
• The price is a bit high compared to other winches in the market.

We recently tested the VEVOR Electric Winch 13000lb Load Truck Winch, and we were impressed with its performance. The winch features an abrasion-resistant cast-aluminum tie plate and a strengthened center-mounted control-pack, which are well-sealed and look low-profile. The 12v, 4.6kw powerful motor is connected to a 3-stage planetary gear train system with revised gear ratios for increased pulling power and lightning-fast line speed. The winch can last for an extended period and works with low noise. The pulling or lifting power of 13000Ibs is suitable for rescuing your vehicle from mud, inclines, and broken ground.

The winch’s waterproof IP67 rating and state-of-the-art 500AMP solenoid valve ensure that it can work in bad conditions. The wireless remote control kit allows you to operate the winch in a precarious situation away from the vehicle, keeping you away from certain risks as well.

However, the winch is a bit heavy, which may make it challenging to install and remove. The instruction manual is not very clear, which may make it challenging to set up the winch. Also, the price is a bit high compared to other winches in the market.

Overall, the VEVOR Electric Winch 13000lb Load Truck Winch is an excellent choice for those looking for a powerful and reliable winch for their car trailer. The winch’s advanced synthetic rope, waterproof and dustproof design, and wireless remote control kit make it a great investment for any off-road enthusiast.

VEVOR Truck Winch 12000lbs Electric Winch

If you’re looking for a powerful winch for your car trailer, the VEVOR Truck Winch 12000lbs Electric Winch is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The VEVOR winch is made of sturdy and durable materials, with a black powder-coated finish that prevents corrosion and gives it a tough look.
• With its 85ft cable steel, this winch is equipped to handle tough jobs and the competition aluminum fairlead and dynamic braking system make it efficient.
• The new powerful 12V 6.6hp motor is connected to a 3-stage planetary gear train system with revised gear ratios for increased pulling power and lightning-fast line speed.

Cons

• The VEVOR winch is a bit on the heavy side, weighing in at 67 pounds.
• The wireless remote control can be a bit finicky at times, requiring a clear line of sight to work properly.
• Some users have reported issues with missing parts upon delivery.

Overall, we highly recommend the VEVOR Truck Winch 12000lbs Electric Winch for anyone in need of a powerful and durable winch for their car trailer. With its strong materials, powerful motor, and efficient braking system, this winch is up to the task of rescuing your vehicle from mud, inclines, and broken ground.

ZESUPER 4500 lb Winch

If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient winch for your car trailer, the ZESUPER 4500 lb Winch is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The black frosted spray paint reduces external damage and does not rust, improving the insulation performance and durability of the winch.
• The high-quality wireless remote control allows operation of the winch from anywhere within a 50-foot radius, making it convenient to use.
• The 12V DC 1.5HP permanent magnet motor has a line speed of 6.1 feet per minute with a full load, ensuring faster linear speed under load.

Cons

• Circuit breakers are not included, which may be inconvenient for some users.
• Some users have reported that the wired handlebar control is unreliable at times.
• The installation instructions could be clearer and more detailed.

In our experience, the ZESUPER 4500 lb Winch is a reliable and efficient winch that is well-suited for use with car trailers. The black frosted spray paint not only gives it a cool style, but it also improves its durability and insulation performance. The wireless remote control is a great feature that makes it easy to operate the winch from a distance, and the 12V DC 1.5HP permanent magnet motor ensures faster linear speed under load.

One potential downside of this winch is that circuit breakers are not included, which may be inconvenient for some users. Additionally, the wired handlebar control can be unreliable at times, which may be frustrating for some users. Finally, the installation instructions could be clearer and more detailed, which may make it difficult for some users to install the winch properly.

Overall, we believe that the ZESUPER 4500 lb Winch is a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient winch for their car trailer. With its combination of features and performance, it is well-suited to a wide range of applications and is sure to provide reliable service for years to come.

POLESTAR Electric Truck Winch

This winch is a great investment for anyone who needs to tow large items or get out of sticky situations.

Pros

• The 13,000 lb. pulling capacity is perfect for heavy-duty vehicles and trailers.
• The powerful 12V DC 6.0 HP motor and 3-planetary gear train deliver faster line speed under load, with lower amp draw, Gear Ratio: 232:1.
• The winch features IP68-rated waterproof construction and comes with both wireless and wired remote control, convenient remote operation.

Cons

• The mounting plate may not fit all vehicles, so it’s important to confirm the fit before purchasing.
• The winch does not come with a cable guide, which can make it difficult to use in certain situations.
• The price point is higher than some other winches on the market.

We recently used this winch to tow a large trailer and it performed exceptionally well. The wireless remote made it easy to operate from a safe distance, and the synthetic rope was strong and durable. The waterproof construction gave us peace of mind when using it in wet conditions.

One thing to note is that the mounting plate may not fit all vehicles, so it’s important to confirm the fit before purchasing. Additionally, the winch does not come with a cable guide, which can make it difficult to use in certain situations. However, these minor drawbacks are outweighed by the winch’s impressive performance and convenience features.

Overall, we highly recommend the POLESTAR Electric Truck Winch for anyone in need of a reliable and powerful winch for their vehicle or trailer.

RUGCEL WINCH

If you’re looking for a reliable and powerful winch for your car trailer, the RUGCEL WINCH is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The newly designed model is durable and rust-resistant, making it perfect for heavy-duty use.
• The 2-in-1 remote control system allows for both wired and wireless control from up to 100ft away.
• The powerful planetary gear system enables differential, deceleration, and reversal, making it versatile for a variety of applications.

Cons

• The winch can be difficult to assemble and install.
• The included cover may not be included in the package.
• The heavy gauge wire is not made from copper.

We were impressed with the RUGCEL WINCH’s overall performance and durability. The newly designed model is rust-resistant and built to withstand heavy-duty use. The 2-in-1 remote control system allows for easy operation from up to 100ft away, and the powerful planetary gear system makes it versatile for a variety of applications.

However, we did find that the winch can be difficult to assemble and install, and the included cover may not be included in the package. Additionally, the heavy gauge wire is not made from copper.

Overall, if you’re looking for a powerful and reliable winch for your car trailer, the RUGCEL WINCH is definitely worth considering.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best winch for your car trailer, there are several factors to consider. We’ve compiled a list of key features to look for to ensure you make an informed decision.

Weight Capacity

One of the most important factors to consider when selecting a winch is its weight capacity. You’ll want to choose a winch that can handle the weight of your car trailer, including any cargo you plan to haul. Make sure to check the weight capacity of the winch before making a purchase.

Cable Length

The length of the winch cable is another important consideration. You’ll want to choose a cable length that is long enough to reach the anchor point, but not so long that it becomes a safety hazard. It’s also important to ensure that the cable is made of high-quality materials and is able to withstand the weight of your car trailer.

Motor Power

The power of the winch motor is another key factor to consider. A higher-powered motor will be able to pull heavier loads, but it may also consume more power and be more expensive. Make sure to choose a motor that is powerful enough to handle your needs, but also fits within your budget.

Remote Control

A remote control can make operating your winch much easier and more convenient. Look for a winch that comes with a remote control, or consider purchasing one separately. A remote control can allow you to operate the winch from a safe distance, reducing the risk of injury.

Durability

Finally, durability is an important factor to consider when choosing a winch. Look for a winch that is made of high-quality materials and is built to last. A winch that is durable will be able to withstand the wear and tear of regular use, ensuring that it lasts for years to come.

By considering these key features when selecting a winch for your car trailer, you can ensure that you choose a product that meets your needs and provides reliable performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors should we consider when choosing a winch for our car trailer?

When selecting a winch for your car trailer, there are several factors to consider. First, you need to determine the weight of the vehicle you will be pulling onto the trailer. You also need to consider the type of winch, whether electric or manual, and the cable length. Additionally, you should consider the winch’s mounting location and compatibility with your trailer.

How do we determine the appropriate weight capacity for a car trailer winch?

To determine the appropriate weight capacity for a car trailer winch, you need to know the weight of the vehicle you will be pulling onto the trailer. The winch’s weight capacity should be at least 1.5 times the weight of the vehicle. This ensures that the winch is strong enough to handle the load and provides a safety margin.

What are the advantages of an electric winch for a car trailer compared to a manual one?

Electric winches are easier to use than manual winches, as they require less physical effort to operate. They also offer more control over the pulling process, allowing for precise movements. Additionally, electric winches are more efficient and can handle heavier loads than manual winches.

Can a 3500 lb winch efficiently pull a vehicle onto a trailer?

A 3500 lb winch can efficiently pull a small to medium-sized vehicle onto a trailer. However, it is important to ensure that the winch’s weight capacity is at least 1.5 times the weight of the vehicle. This ensures that the winch can handle the load and provides a safety margin.

Are there specific winches recommended for race car trailers?

There are winches specifically designed for race car trailers, with features such as faster line speeds and higher weight capacities. However, any winch with sufficient weight capacity can be used for a race car trailer.

What are the top-rated winch brands for car trailers on the market?

There are several top-rated winch brands for car trailers on the market, including Warn, Smittybilt, and Superwinch. These brands offer a range of winches with different weight capacities and features to suit various needs and budgets.