Can a Ford Explorer Sport trac tow?

The Ford Explorer Sport Trac can tow, with typical capacities in the 5,000–7,000 pound range depending on the engine and tow-package equipment.

The Sport Trac is a mid-size pickup variant of Ford's Explorer that was produced in the early 2000s. Towing capability depends on year, engine choice (4.0L V6 versus any available V8 option), drivetrain (2WD vs 4WD), and whether the factory tow package is installed. For safe towing, your vehicle must be equipped with the appropriate hitch, wiring, and cooling improvements, and you should always confirm the exact rating from the door sticker and owner's manual for your specific truck.

Engine options and towing ratings

Below are typical towing ranges for common Sport Trac configurations that included the factory tow package. Exact ratings can vary by year and option package, so verify your own vehicle’s rating with the VIN and manual.

• 4.0L V6 with the factory tow package (most common configuration): approximately 5,000–6,000 pounds


• 4.0L V6 with 4x4 and tow package: approximately 5,000–6,000 pounds


• 4.6L V8 option (where offered on some years/trim levels): up to about 7,000 pounds (sometimes a bit higher depending on equipment)

In short, most Sport Trac models designed for towing fall within a 5,000–6,000 pound range, with V8-equipped variants capable of around 7,000 pounds or more in some configurations. Confirm the exact figure for your specific vehicle before towing.

Notable considerations before towing

Before you hitch up, keep these guidelines in mind to ensure safe and reliable towing with a Sport Trac.

• Check the GVWR, payload, and tongue weight to ensure the combined load stays within limits. Tongue weight is typically about 10–15% of the trailer’s total weight.


• Use a proper hitch class (Class III is common) and a compatible ball size. Ensure the hitch is rated for the trailer weight you plan to tow.


• Verify wiring and lighting are wired correctly, and consider a trailer brake controller if your trailer has electric brakes or if local regulations require it.


• Ensure the trailer and its brakes are in good condition, and that tires on both vehicle and trailer are rated for the loads involved.


• Engine and transmission cooling matter with heavier loads. If your Sport Trac lacks a factory transmission cooler, consider upgrading or ensuring the cooling system is up to the task for extended towing.


• Adjust driving habits for towing: longer braking distances, more gradual accelerations, and frequent checks on temps and brake wear.

Following these practices helps keep towing safe and within the vehicle’s design limits.

Year-by-year nuances to watch for

Ford offered Sport Trac models with different engines and option packages across production years. While the 4.0L V6 with a tow package was the most common configuration, a few years included a 4.6L V8 option that increased potential towing capacity. Always verify the exact rating for your specific truck using the door jamb placard and the owner’s manual, as ratings can change with equipment and model year.

Summary

Yes — the Ford Explorer Sport Trac can tow, typically in the 5,000–6,000 lb range for most V6 configurations and around 7,000 lb for some V8-equipped variants. The exact capacity depends on year, engine, drivetrain, and the presence of a factory tow package. Always confirm the precise rating for your vehicle and adhere to recommended towing practices, including proper hitching, braking, and cooling considerations.

What years of Ford Explorer Sport Trac to avoid?

The Ford Explorer Sport Trac years to avoid are primarily the 2001-2007 models, due to reported issues with frequent engine, electrical, and transmission problems. Specific model years like 2002, 2003, and 2004 have been singled out for a high number of complaints related to transmissions, body/paint, and other issues. The 2006 model year is also problematic, especially with the 4.0L engine due to timing chain and thermostat housing issues. 
Years to avoid

• 2001-2007: This range is generally advised against due to frequent engine, electrical, and transmission issues reported by owners. 
• 2002, 2003, 2004: These years are cited for a high number of complaints, especially concerning transmissions and body/paint issues. 
• 2006: This model year has specific issues with the 4.0L engine, such as timing chain and thermostat housing problems, and a "glass transmission". 

Common problems by model year

• 2001-2005: Engine, electrical, and transmission troubles are common. 
• 2002: Serious transmission problems are a major concern. 
• 2003-2005: Body and paint issues are frequently reported. 
• 2007-2010: While better than earlier models, these can still have issues like leaking third brake light gaskets, shifter problems, and failing radio screens. 

Years considered more reliable 

• 2008-2010: These models are often recommended as a better choice for those wanting to avoid the issues of earlier years. 

This video discusses the top problems with the first generation Ford Explorer Sport Trac: 43s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Sep 28, 2020

How much can a 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac tow?

The 2WD V6 can tow up to 5,250 pounds, while the 2WD V8 can tow up to 7,160 pounds.

How much can a Ford Explorer Sport Trac tow?

The towing capacity for a Ford Explorer Sport Trac varies by model year, but is generally between 5,000 and 7,000 pounds. For example, the 2007 model has a 5,140 lb capacity, while some 2010 models could tow up to 7,160 lbs with the right engine, notes Edmunds and Kelley Blue Book. The engine and specific factory-installed towing package are key factors in determining the exact capacity. 
You can watch this video to learn about the towing capacity of the Ford Explorer Sport Trac: 1mBern on CarsYouTube · Sep 8, 2023

• 2001-2003: Around 5,000–5,100 lbs, depending on the configuration, notes Consumer Reports.
• 2004: Approximately 5,080 lbs, says Edmunds.
• 2005: Up to 5,300 lbs, according to Edmunds.
• 2007: 5,140 lbs. Some V8 models could handle up to 6,800 lbs.
• 2008: 5,260 lbs.
• 2010: Up to 7,160 lbs with the correct engine, notes Edmunds. 

How much can a 2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac tow?

The maximum towing capacity for a 2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is 5,300 pounds when properly equipped. However, this can be lower depending on the specific configuration, with some sources citing a 5,100-pound capacity for a properly equipped version, while others indicate it can be as low as 3,500 pounds without the factory tow package and correct rear end. It's crucial to check the vehicle's specific equipment, including the rear end ratio and factory tow package, for the most accurate towing number.
 

• 5,300 pounds: The generally listed maximum towing capacity for a properly equipped 2003 Sport Trac. 
• 5,100 pounds: A lower capacity mentioned for a properly equipped two-wheel-drive version. 
• 3,500 pounds: The towing capacity for a 4.0-liter engine with a 3.73 rear end without a factory tow package. 
• 5,820 pounds: The maximum towing capacity with a factory tow package and Class III hitch. 
• 3,300 pounds: The towing capacity for a 4.0-liter engine with a 3.55 rear end without a factory tow package.