Are Ford Mavericks good for towing?

Yes, the Maverick can tow, but it's best for light-to-moderate trailers. With the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine and the Tow Package, it can tow up to 4,000 pounds; the base hybrid version tops out around 2,000 pounds. This makes it suitable for small trailers rather than heavy-duty hauling.

Understanding Maverick towing capabilities

Ford offers two main powertrains with distinct towing profiles. The hybrid focuses on efficiency and light-duty tasks, while the EcoBoost powertrain is designed for heavier loads when properly equipped with the Tow Package. Your actual towing limit will depend on configuration, payload, and trailer setup.

Below are the official towing limits by engine/kit. Use these figures as a guide and always confirm with Ford's documentation for your specific vehicle.

• Hybrid powertrain (2.5L hybrid): up to 2,000 pounds of trailer weight when properly equipped.


• 2.0L EcoBoost engine with Tow Package: up to 4,000 pounds of trailer weight when properly equipped.

In everyday use, the Maverick's towing capability also reflects payload capacity, tongue weight, and trailer braking. The hybrid’s lighter mass can make backing and maneuvering trailers easier, while the EcoBoost version carries heavier loads more confidently—when you stay within the recommended limits.

Practical considerations for towing with the Maverick

Towing affects driving dynamics, braking distance, and fuel economy. Prospective tow users should consider trailer type, road conditions, and the vehicle’s payload. Ford recommends matching the trailer to the tow-rated configuration and using appropriate towing equipment.

Engine choices and how they affect towing

The two primary Maverick configurations offer different strengths. The hybrid is optimized for efficiency and light trailers, making it a sensible choice for small boat trailers, landscapers’ trailers, and utility trailers. The 2.0L EcoBoost with the Tow Package delivers stronger torque and higher towing ratings for heavier trailers and hill climbs, albeit with a noticeable hit to fuel economy compared with the hybrid.

Important notes: always verify your exact trim, axle ratio, and tow package details as those factors can influence the official rating. For heavy or frequent towing, the EcoBoost configuration is the more capable option.

These steps outline how to prepare and tow safely with a Maverick.

1. Confirm you have the correct Tow Package installed, including the hitch, wiring, and any braking support required for your trailer.


2. Choose a trailer that stays within the vehicle’s specified GCWR (gross combined weight rating) and ensure tongue weight is within the recommended range.


3. Use a properly rated hitch and weight-conscious trailer that matches the Maverick’s payload capacity; ensure the hitch height aligns with the trailer.


4. Install and/or verify trailer brakes where required, and ensure lighting and electrical systems function correctly.


5. Distribute load evenly, secure cargo, and drive with extra caution on grades and highways; maintain safe following distances and adjust speeds for towing conditions.

Following these steps helps safeguard both vehicle and load, particularly on longer trips or hilly terrain. Always err on the side of caution and consult Ford's towing guide for your exact configuration.

Safety notes and practical tips

Additional considerations include tire load ratings, proper tire pressure when towing, and the potential need for a transmission cooler if you tow frequently or at high loads. The Maverick is small for a tow vehicle, so plan trips with lighter trailers and shorter durations if you want to maximize efficiency and reliability.

For more demanding or frequent towing, a larger pickup with higher tow ratings may be more appropriate. The Maverick remains best for light to moderate towing needs and everyday utility rather than heavy-duty pulling.

Summary

In brief, Ford Mavericks can handle light to moderate towing: up to 2,000 pounds with the Hybrid model and up to 4,000 pounds with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine and Tow Package. Real-world results depend on payload, trailer type, and equipment. For most users seeking occasional boat, trailer, or utility runs, the Maverick offers adequate capability without sacrificing much efficiency — but it’s not a heavy-duty tow vehicle. Always consult Ford's official specifications for your exact configuration and follow safe towing practices.

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What year to avoid Ford Maverick?

The main Ford Maverick years to avoid are 2022, due to a high number of recalls and a below-average reliability rating, and to a lesser extent, the 2024, which has seen many recalls for driveline and electrical issues. The 2022 model year was considered the worst, particularly the hybrid, while the 2024 model also has its share of problems, though it has shown improvement in later production. The 2023 model year is a potential risk for the 2.5L HEV/PHEV engine issues, but is generally seen as more reliable than the first two years.
 
This video discusses potential problems with the Ford Maverick, including quality control issues: 58sFuel ForceYouTube · Jun 9, 2025
2022 Ford Maverick

• Recalls: Had the highest number of recalls, at 15 from the NHTSA. 
• Reliability: Received a below-average reliability rating from Consumer Reports, especially the hybrid model. 
• Issues: Experienced numerous issues, including frequent electrical system problems, and was subject to a recall related to potential engine fires in the hybrid model. 

2024 Ford Maverick

• Recalls: Has been recalled 12 times for issues such as driveline components, electrical failures, and the rearview camera display.
• Issues: Common problems include driveline vibrations, electrical issues, and problems with the rearview camera display freezing or being unresponsive. 

2023 Ford Maverick

• Engine issues: While generally more reliable than earlier years, the 2023 model year is also subject to the engine failure recall for the 2.5L HEV/PHEV engine. 
• Recommendation: Some sources suggest the 2023 model year is an improvement over the 2022 model, but it is still important to check for any outstanding recalls on the specific vehicle. 

What to consider

• Launch years: Launch year vehicles like the 2022 model year often have more problems than subsequent years, as manufacturers work out the kinks in earlier releases. 
• Model year: Newer model years, such as 2023 and 2024, are generally more reliable than 2022, though some issues persist. 
• Specific issues: Be aware of specific problems, such as the engine fire risk in some hybrid models, and the rearview camera display in some 2024 models, and check to see if they apply to the vehicle you are considering. 
• Warranty: Ensure all recalls are addressed by a dealer and look for vehicles with an extended warranty. 

What are the disadvantages of the Ford Maverick?

The main cons of the Ford Maverick include limited towing capacity (especially the hybrid model), potential build quality and reliability issues like inconsistent panel gaps, rattles, and recalls, and a basic and noisy interior with uncomfortable seats for some drivers. Owners also report problems with the electronics, such as a slow infotainment system, lagging backup camera, and various software glitches, as well as a stiff ride and high wind noise at highway speeds. 
This video discusses the Ford Maverick's performance, handling, and towing capabilities: 1mFuel ForceYouTube · Oct 9, 2024
Performance and capability

• Low towing capacity: The hybrid model is limited to 2,000 lbs of towing, while the 4,000 lb capacity of the EcoBoost engine (with the 4K tow package) is still less than some competitors like the Hyundai Santa Cruz. 
• Stiff ride and noise: The suspension can be stiff, and there is significant wind and road noise at highway speeds, making long trips uncomfortable for some. 
• Rear seat space: The rear seats are tight for adults. 

Build quality and reliability 

• Build quality concerns: Some owners report inconsistent panel gaps, rattling trim, and a general "cheap" feel to the interior materials. 
• Recalls and electrical issues: There have been multiple recalls for various issues, and owners have experienced electrical problems like malfunctioning infotainment systems, low 12v batteries, and persistent warning lights. 

This video explains some common problems with the Ford Maverick in detail: 55sFuel ForceYouTube · Sep 22, 2025
Comfort and features

• Uncomfortable seats: The front seats are often cited as being uncomfortable for long trips due to a lack of cushioning. 
• Basic interior: While the interior is functional, it is made of hard plastics, and some features like a base model sound system can be disappointing. 
• Feature limitations: Some desired features, like heated seats or a better sound system, are only available on higher trim levels. 
• Poor visibility: The large windshield and rear window angle can create blind spots at intersections for some drivers. 

This video discusses the comfort, interior features, and usability of the Ford Maverick: 57sOff the Shelf RidesYouTube · Oct 15, 2025

Is the Ford Maverick good for towing?

The base model of the Ford Maverick has a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds. This towing capacity comes standard with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine. If you upgrade to the second engine option, which is a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and the 4k Tow Package, the towing capacity increases to 4,000 pounds.