A car trailer winch is employed to draw vehicles or other items onto a trailer and is regularly placed at the front of the trailer.
It comprises a metallic framework, a rope or cable, and a mechanized winch controllable either by hand or remotely.
The purpose of the winch for car trailers is to haul the vehicle or object onto the trailer.
In this article, we will tell you about 10 car’s trailer winches for car trailers of hydraulic and electric winches that you can purchase if necessary.
| Image | Product | Features |
 | TYT 12V Electric 4500 lb ATV/UTV Winch Kit | Loading capacity: 4500 lb Motor: 12 V DC permanent magnet Horsepower: 1.9 HP |
 | ZESUPER 4500-lb Waterproof Winch Waterproof IP67 Electric Winch | Loading capacity: 4500 lb Motor: 12V DC permanent magnet Horsepower: 1.5 HP |
 | Smittybilt X2O GEN2 10K Waterproof Wireless Winch | Loading capacity: 12 000-15 500 lb Motor: Amphibious motor Horsepower: 6.6 HP |
 | Smittybilt XRC GEN2 9.5K Waterproof Winch | Loading capacity: 12 000-17 500 lb Motor: Series Wound Horsepower: 6.6 HP |
 | OPEN ROAD ATV Winch | Loading capacity: 4 500 lb Motor: Motor with differential planetary permanent magnet gear Horsepower: 1.8 HP |
 | STEGODON | Loading capacity: 9 500 lb Motor: Motor with permanent magnet DC 12V Horsepower: 5.5 HP |
 | TYT T1 | Loading capacity: 113 000 lb Motor: High-performance pure copper motor Horsepower: 6HP |
 | AC-DK 13500 lb Electric Winch Kit | Loading capacity: 13 500 lb Motor: Series Wound Horsepower: 5.5 HP |
 | Champion Power Equipment | Loading capacity: 4 500 lb Motor: (12-volt) DC motor Horsepower: 1.6 HP |
 | Superwinch 1140232 | Loading capacity: 2 000 lb Motor: (1.0 kW) 12V DC motor Horsepower: 1.4 HP |
Table of Contents
1. TYT 12V Electric 4500 lb ATV/UTV Winch Kit
The TYT 12V Electric 4500 lb ATV/UTV Winch Kit is a durable steel cable winch that is both waterproof and intended for off-road use. It is one of the best winch for car trailer.
This car trailer winch is specially designed for hauling UTV/ATV trailers and automobiles and comes with two wireless remotes as well as a wired handle for effortless operation.
This winch for a car trailer is suitable for smaller to medium-sized vehicles, with a maximum weight limit of 4500 lbs.
Equipped with a potent 12-volt DC engine, the winch for car trailers offers consistent and dependable functionality.
The TYT 12V Electric 4500 lb ATV/UTV Winch Kit includes a mounting plate for effortless installation on your vehicle.
Pros
- 20% to 30% more efficient than the standard control box
- Protection against overload and dual remote control
- Dyneema rope, which is synthetic, has an added level of durability, 2 Wireless remote controls
- Two remote controls that operate without cords or cables
- Moves at a rate of 7 feet per minute while carrying a full load.
- The motor contains copper of superior quality
- You will receive technical support for the lifetime of the product
- Gear train for wire rope
Cons
- Issues with the attachment bracket
- Requires a professional to install it properly
2. ZESUPER 4500-lb Waterproof Winch
The ZESUPER 4500-lb Waterproof Winch is a superior winch that is specifically intended for demanding industrial and off-road use. It is one of the best winch for car trailer.
This car trailer winch boasts an IP67 waterproof ranking, making it fully protected from both water and dust. This feature of electric winches makes it ideal for operating in damp or muddy environments, or even in marine settings.
Included with the winch is a sturdy steel rope along with a hawse fairlead which for car trailers allows for seamless guidance of the cable and prevents any entanglement or harm even with heavy loads.
The ZESUPER electric winches provide the convenience of a wireless handheld remote and a corded remote control, offering the option to manage the winch from a distance or in proximity as needed.
With a wireless remote range of up to 50 feet, it ensures safe operation from afar.
With a pulling capacity of up to 4500 pounds, the winch is applicable for various uses. Its gear ratio of 198:1 allows it to effortlessly pull substantial loads.
Using the wireless remote control, you can control the winch safely and remotely.
Pros
- SA winch of exceptional quality
- Able to be moved easily
- Includes a variety of complimentary extras
- Gear train for wire rope
Cons
- Somewhat expensive
3.Smittybilt X2O GEN2 10K
Waterproof Wireless Winch with Synthetic Rope – 98510. It is one of the best winch for car trailer.
The Smittybilt X2O GEN2 10K Waterproof Wireless Winch is a dependable and effective winch option that can be used for large trucks and SUVs.
These electric winches have the capability of pulling up to 10,000 pounds and come with synthetic rope, making it effortless to pull your vehicle out of tricky spots.
In addition, this winch is waterproof, guaranteeing that it will be operational even in damp weather conditions.
Using the wireless remote control, you can control the winch safely and remotely. With the load-holding brake system, your vehicle is kept stable and secure during the winching process.
Pros
- Design of the highest quality
- High-quality building material
- Extensive guarantee
- Great weight-bearing capacity
- Silent operation
- Design that is resistant to both weather and water
- Great load capacity
- Gear train for wire rope
- Best car hauler winch
Cons
- The pricing is somewhat excessive
4.Smittybilt XRC GEN2 9.5K
Waterproof Winch with Steel Cable – 97495. It is one of the best winch for car trailer.
The Smittybilt XRC GEN2 9.5K Waterproof Winch with Steel Cable (97495) is a sturdy and dependable winch that caters to the needs of adventurers and experts who need a solid winch for their off-road vehicles.
The electric winches boast waterproof construction, are capable of withstanding water damage to preserve its longevity, and can carry up to 9,500 pounds.
Additionally, the winch is equipped with a pulling power 6.6 HP amphibious engine, a three-stage planetary gear mechanism, and a 12-foot remote control, which permits you to securely maneuver the winch from a distance.
The 94-foot steel cable is also 3/8 inches thick, supplying sufficient robustness and toughness to efficiently tackle strenuous tasks.
The winch is easy to install, and it comes with a mounting plate, fairlead, and all necessary hardware.
The fairlead is designed to protect the steel rope and ensure smooth winching. The winch is coated with black powder for both a sleek appearance and enhanced strength.
Pros
- Extremely long-lasting
- Total protection against water
- Sufficiently strong
- Ideal size
- Excellent cost-effectiveness
- Great load capacity
- Gear train for wire rope
Cons
- The duration of the electrical warranty is relatively short
5. OPEN ROAD ATV Winch 3500lbs 12V Electric Winch
The Electric Winches 12V 3500lbs from OPEN ROAD ATV, being durable and dependable, are ideal pieces of equipment for off-road trips on ATVs and UTVs. It is one of the best winch for car trailer.
Its remarkable weightlifting capacity of 3500 lbs allows it to effortlessly rescue your vehicle from challenging terrains and transport bulky objects.
The OPEN ROAD ATV winch has a synthetic rope that outweighs traditional steel rope in regard to strength and weight.
The steel rope possesses a greater degree of flexibility, making it more manageable and safer to utilize. Additionally, the green rope adds a fashionable and noticeable accent to your ATV or UTV.
Included with the winch is a wireless remote controller, which grants the ability to safely operate it from a distance of up to 50 feet.
Pros
- Resistant to alkalis and corrosion
- Capable of withstanding water penetration
- Equipped with a power cut-off button for immediate power disconnection
- Exhibits strong UV resistance and can function in temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius
- Operated via a wireless remote within a 50-foot radius
- Includes lifetime technical assistance and a 1-year restricted warranty
- Wireless remote control system
- Gear train for steel wire rope
Cons
- Problems with regulating temperature
6.STEGODON New 9500 lb
The S3 Electric Winch with a Load Capacity of 9500 lbs. by STEGODON is a robust and dependable winch that can manage demanding assignments effortlessly. It is one of the best winch for car trailer.
It can handle large automobiles such as trucks and SUVs thanks to its 9500 lbs. load capacity.
The winch is designed to be impermeable to water and has an IP67 certification indicating that it can endure submersion in water up to a depth of 1 meter for 30 minutes.
Using the wireless remote control, you can control the winch safely and remotely.
The STEGODON electric winch offers the user versatility and convenience through the provision of both a wireless handheld remote and a wired handle control. The wireless remote enables easy operation from a distance, while the wired handle presents a more traditional option.
This durable and dependable electric winch for a car trailer can easily handle the toughest tasks and comes in an eye-catching green-rope color that looks great on any vehicle.
Pros
- Getting your money’s worth
- Improved clutch lever designed to prevent cracking
- The solenoid has a robust seal
- Remote control with advanced sensitivity
- Move loads at a rate of 6.6 ft/min even when fully loaded
- Lifetime technical assistance with a 1-year restricted guarantee
- Gear train for wire rope
Cons
- If the motor is not properly maintained, it may become rusted
- The wireless remote can be problematic on occasion
7. TYT T1 Series Winch 13000 lb
The TYT T1 Series Winch is a highly capable and innovative electric winch capable of carrying loads of up to 13000 lbs. It is one of the best winch for car trailer.
Its robust synthetic winch for a car trailer rope is exceptionally wear-resistant, making it ideal for even the most demanding applications.
The truck winch being offered is waterproof and has an IP67 rating, allowing it to be utilized in any weather.
It also includes a hawse fairlead to assist in the secure and smooth guidance of the winch rope.
The simple-to-use 12V winch includes a pair of wireless handheld remote controls, enabling you to control the winch from a secure distance.
Using the wireless remote control, you can control the winch safely and remotely.
With two remote controls, you’ll always have a second option in case one is lost or malfunctioning.
Pros
- Operates with a 20% to 30% increase in speed compared to the standard control box
- Comes equipped with double remote control and overload safeguard
- The synthetic rope (Dyneema) is exceptionally sturdy
- Includes two wireless remote controls and the ability to drag at 7 feet per minute when under a full load
- The motor features top-notch copper components
- Lifetime technical assistance is offered, in addition to a two-year service warranty
- Great load capacity
- Gear train for wire rope
Cons
- Issues with the attachment bracket
- Proper installation requires the expertise of a professional
8. AC-DK 13500 lb Electric Winch Kit
The AC-DK 13500 lb. Electric Winch Kit is a high-capacity winch that enables the effortless recovery of vehicles or equipment. It is one of the best winch for a car trailer.
Equipped with a 12V motor, this winch provides a consistent pulling force for weights up to 13500 lbs.
Featuring an 85-foot synthetic rope, it is built to withstand challenging environments and demands.
The winch for a car trailer is waterproof and has an IP67 rating, making it capable of operating in the toughest of conditions.
Pros
- Great value for money in terms of performance
- User-friendly and manageable
- Constructed with lightweight materials
- Designed to be resistant to water damage
- The Winch line is resistant to corrosion
- The motor boasts impressive power levels
- Gear train for wire’s rope
Cons
- It takes a considerable amount of time to cool down after performance
9. Champion Power Equipment-14560 4500-lb
The Champion Power Equipment-14560 4500-lb. ATV/UTV Wireless Winch Kit is a dependable and potent winch suitable for your UTV or ATV.
It is one of the best winch for a car trailer.
It can comfortably haul hefty objects with its 4500-lb. limit. The winch for car trailer comes equipped with a remote control that operates wirelessly and lets you maneuver from afar.
The complete package of the Champion Power Equipment-14560 4500-lb. ATV/UTV Wireless Winch Kit includes a remote control, battery cables, a roller fairlead, and a winch.
It is easy to install and can be up and running in no time.
Pros
- There is complimentary and ongoing technical assistance and a restricted 2-year guarantee included
- An affordable but high-quality winch with a durable build
- You have the option to replace the steel cable with a synthetic one
- You can operate the winch using either a wired or wireless remote control
Cons
- The quality of the accessories included in the installation is inexpensive
10. Superwinch 1140232
The Superwinch 1140232 Winch2Go is a handy and flexible electric utility winch that can serve multiple purposes. It is one of the best winch for a car trailer.
Winch for car trailer can pull heavy loads or rescue vehicles, boasting a maximum single-line pull of 4000lb/1814.4kg. Furthermore, it’s portable and convenient to transport.
The Winch2Go’s remarkable characteristic is its portability.
With the steel mounting bolt pattern and steel wire’s rope, it can be effortlessly affixed to any surface, and detached with the same ease, making it ideal for usage on numerous vehicles or diverse job locations.
The synthetic rope is also sturdy and long-lasting, and it does not suffer from the same issues as traditional steel cables, such as kinking and fraying.
The winch for car trailer provides two types of remote controls, a hand-held one and an in-cab automatic one.
This enables users to control the winch at a secure distance away, or while they are seated inside their vehicle.
Pros
- It has all the essential instruments included
- Impressive capacity for carrying
- A powerful engine and a duo of tow ropes
Cons
- Somewhat costly
FAQ
It may depend on various factors, such as the weight of the cars being hauled, the length and width of the trailer, and the type of the winch system being used.
It is recommended to consult the manufacturer’s specifications or a professional for guidance on the appropriate size of a car hauler winch for your particular setup.
However, as a general guideline, a winch with a capacity of at least 8,000 pounds should be sufficient for most car hauling needs.
This can handle the weight of most passenger cars and small to mid-sized SUVs.
For larger vehicles or heavy-duty hauling, a winch with a capacity of 10,000 pounds or more may be necessary.
Again, it’s important to consider all factors and consult with experts for the best recommendation.
A 2000-pound winch can pull up to 2000 pounds, but it is important to note that the actual pulling capacity may vary depending on factors such as the angle of the pull, the type of cable or rope used, and the condition of the hydraulic winch.
It is always advisable to refer to the manufacturer’s specifications and guidelines when using a winch to ensure a safe and effective operation.
Additionally, it is important to ensure that the hydraulic winches are properly mounted and that the load is properly secured before beginning the pull.
Any obstructions or obstacles in the path of the pull should also be cleared to prevent damage and ensure safety.
Regular maintenance and inspection of the hydraulic winches are also critical to ensure optimal performance and prevent any potential accidents or failures.
Some of the best winches available in the market are:
Smittybilt Gen2 X20: It is designed for heavy-duty tasks and is also water-resistant, which makes it perfect for off-road adventures.
It is a premium electric winch, and it has a dual remote control mode.
Best car trailer winches should have an electric motor.
Unlike a permanent magnet motor, an electric motor is more efficient and delivers more power. Such motors have a differential planetary gear train.
Here are some general tips on choosing a winch for your car:
Determine the weight of your vehicle. The pulling power of a winch is typically measured in pounds, so it’s important to know the weight of your vehicle to ensure that the winch you choose has enough capacity to pull it.
When considering the length of the winch line, it is important to choose the one that can reach the anchor point required. To ensure you choose the correct length, it is recommended that you select a winch line that is at least 1.5 times the distance between the winch and the anchor point.
When searching for an off-road winch, prioritize durability. It should be able to withstand the demanding conditions of heavy usage. This entails selecting a trailer winch with a dependable motor, metal casing, and sturdy winch cable.
Select a winch equipped with a remote controller. It is crucial to have a remote controller since it enables you to control the winch from a secure distance, which is particularly essential when utilizing it in off-road circumstances.
Check the electrical system. Make sure your car’s electrical system can handle the additional load of the winch. You may need to upgrade your alternator or battery to ensure that the winch works properly.
Stick with a reputable brand. There are many winch manufacturers on the market, but it’s important to choose a brand with a solid reputation for quality and reliability. Stick with brands that have been around for a while and have a track record of producing high-quality winches.
Seek professional advice. If you’re not sure which winch is right for your vehicle, it’s always a good idea to seek professional advice from a mechanic or off-road expert. They can help you choose a winch that is suitable for your vehicle and intended usage.
Conclusions
The best winch for a car is Smittybilt, because it has the most modern characteristics.
I also want to add that there are trailer winches with a permanent magnet motor. The permanent magnet motor is also effectively used, but they slightly lag behind electric ones in efficiency.
In such motors, hydraulic pressure is slightly lower. However, some users believe that such motors are more reliable.
