Can I tow a 3500 kg caravan with a Ford Ranger?
Yes, you can, but only if your particular Ranger variant has a braked towing capacity at least equal to 3500 kg and you stay within the truck’s payload and weight limits as well as the caravan’s loaded mass. Availability and limits vary by model year, engine, and towing package, so check your exact specifications.
Key factors that determine towing a 3500 kg caravan
The following factors collectively decide whether a Ford Ranger can safely tow a 3,500 kg caravan. Use them to assess your specific setup.
- Braked towing capacity and model-year variation
- Vehicle payload capacity and GVM (gross vehicle weight rating)
- Gross combined mass (GCM) or combined weight limit for vehicle + trailer
- Trailer specifications (ATM/MTM, gross trailer weight, and hitch weight)
- Braking requirements and trailer electrical/ braking systems
- Local licensing, regulations, and road rules for towing
In practice, the Ranger must be rated for at least 3,500 kg of braked towing and have enough payload to carry the hitch weight and any extra gear or passengers. The caravan must also be within its own weight ratings when loaded. Because ratings vary by market and year, confirm the exact figures for your vehicle and trailer before towing.
How to verify your Ranger and caravan numbers
Use this checklist to determine if your Ranger can safely tow a 3,500 kg caravan with your planned load.
- Check the Ranger’s official towing capacity (braked) and payload rating for your exact model year and trim, using the door jamb plate or the owner's manual.
- Determine the caravan’s maximum permissible laden weight (ATM/MTM) and its unladen weight (tare), then estimate the actual loaded weight (including luggage and water).
- Calculate the expected hitch weight (ball weight) and ensure your Ranger’s payload can cover both the hitch and any passengers or cargo.
- Verify the vehicle’s gross combined mass (GCM) rating and ensure that loaded vehicle weight plus loaded caravan weight does not exceed this limit.
- Confirm trailer braking requirements and install any necessary brake controller; ensure proper wiring and compliance with local laws.
- Check local licensing requirements and any towing speed or road-rule limits that apply to towing heavy trailers.
Conclusion: If your Ranger’s braked towing rating is at least 3,500 kg, your payload is sufficient for the hitch weight and extras, and the caravan’s loaded weight keeps you under the GCM, towing a 3,500 kg caravan is feasible. Otherwise, you may need a higher-rated variant or a lighter trailer.
Practical safety and setup considerations
- Use a weight-distributing hitch if recommended for your caravan’s weight to improve stability.
- Install and correctly calibrate a trailer brake controller if required by your market; ensure caravan brakes engage reliably.
- Inspect tyres, pressures, and load distribution on both vehicle and trailer; maintain balanced weight distribution.
- Enable trailer stability features (if equipped) and follow safe towing speeds and braking distances.
- Plan for weight limits at fuel stations, tolls, and parking; ensure your route accommodates the combined length and weight.
With the right equipment and careful loading, a Ford Ranger can tow a 3,500 kg caravan in many configurations. Always base your decision on the exact ratings for your vehicle and trailer rather than general assumptions.
What to do if your Ranger can’t tow 3500 kg
If your model year or configuration does not meet the 3,500 kg braked towing requirement, consider alternatives such as a lighter caravan, a Ranger with a higher towing rating, or a different tow vehicle designed for heavier trailers. Rechecking with a dealer using your VIN can confirm the permissible limits for your specific vehicle.
Summary
Towability of a 3,500 kg caravan with a Ford Ranger hinges on the exact towing rating, payload capacity, and combined weight limits of your vehicle, as well as the caravan’s loaded mass and braking setup. Always verify model-specific specifications, perform careful weight calculations, and equip the vehicle with appropriate towing hardware. When done correctly, towing a 3,500 kg caravan with a Ranger is achievable in many markets and configurations.
How many kg can a Ford Ranger tow?
Delivering an exceptional 1-tonne load-carrying ability, capable of towing up to 3,500 kg, and available with a 4x4 drivetrain for rugged off-road capability: Ranger Single Cab makes your work life easier.
Are Ford Rangers good for towing caravans?
Towing – 89%
The Ranger has a kerbweight of 2,283kg, so keeping within the Club's 85% guidelines, nearly all caravans will be sensible matches.
Can a Ford Ranger tow a 3500kg caravan?
This varies significantly from vehicle to vehicle; Ford Ranger has a maximum braked towing capacity of 3500kg1 and Raptor 2,500kg1 when fitted with a genuine Ford Tow Pack. Towball Weight: This is the maximum amount of weight that can be carried on your vehicle's towbar.
How big of a camper can a Ford Ranger tow?
~7,500 lb.
With the Tow Package, the Ranger can handle many small to mid-size travel trailers with a GVWR up to ~7,500 lb. Always verify your camper's fully loaded weight before towing.
