Can Mustangs pull trailers?

Some Mustangs can tow light trailers, but only when equipped with Ford’s Trailer Tow Package. In those configurations, the typical towing limit is around 2,000 pounds, depending on year and exact setup. Most Mustangs without the package have no official towing rating.

The Mustang lineup spans EcoBoost, GT, Mach 1, and Shelby variants, and towing capability varies by model year and equipment. This article explains what to know before hitching up, including official ratings, required gear, and best practices for safe towing with a Ford Mustang.

Tow capacity by model and equipment

Overview of which trims can tow and their practical limits when the factory Tow Package is installed.

• EcoBoost with Trailer Tow Package: typically rated to tow about 2,000 pounds with the proper hitch and trailer brakes; package often includes a heavier cooling setup and wiring harness suitable for light trailers.


• GT with Trailer Tow Package: similar towing capacity and equipment to the EcoBoost version when the Tow Package is fitted; always verify the exact rating for your model year.


• Mach 1 and Shelby variants: Ford has offered limited or no factory Trailer Tow Package for these performance-focused trims, and most model years carry no official towing rating; towing is generally not supported by Ford on these cars.

In practice, towing with a Mustang is feasible on EcoBoost and GT models that have the Tow Package, typically up to about 2,000 pounds; other trims are not designed for towing. Always confirm the precise rating for your vehicle using the VIN and official manuals.

Preparing to tow with a Mustang

Before hitching a trailer to a Mustang, follow these guidelines to ensure safety and compliance with manufacturer specs.

• Check the official towing rating for your exact vehicle (VIN) in the owner’s manual or Ford’s official resources; never exceed the stated limit.


• Install a proper hitch (usually Class II or higher) and a compatible trailer wiring harness; depending on trailer weight, a brake controller may be required or recommended.


• Consider cooling and drivetrain upgrades for sustained towing, such as a heavier-duty radiator and engine oil cooler, especially on longer trips or hot conditions.


• Use correct weight distribution and monitor tongue weight; ensure trailer brakes are functional and properly connected.


• Inspect tires, suspension, and braking performance; keep tire pressures at recommended levels to handle the additional load.

By following these steps, owners can reduce risk and improve safety when towing with a Mustang.

Model-year snapshot: current offerings

A quick look at how Ford has approached towing across recent Mustangs and what buyers should expect when shopping or maintaining their car.

• 2020–2024 EcoBoost and GT: Trailer Tow Package offered in many years; typical rating around 2,000 pounds with proper equipment.


• Mach 1: Tow package is generally not offered; no official towing rating; Ford’s guidance is to refrain from towing with this trim.


• Shelby GT500: No factory towing package; towing is not supported due to the high-performance, specialized drivetrain and braking setup.

Because options and ratings shift with model year, verify current specifications with Ford’s official materials or your local dealer for your specific car.

Summary

The Mustang can pull trailers, but only when equipped with the proper factory gear and within explicit limits. EcoBoost and GT models with the Trailer Tow Package commonly allow towing around 2,000 pounds; Mach 1 and Shelby variants typically do not have towing support. Always consult the exact owner's manual and your dealer for your precise rating, and follow safe towing practices to protect the vehicle and road users.

How much can a 5.0 V8 tow?

The towing capacity for a 5.0L V8 Ford F-150 can be up to 12,900 pounds, but this maximum depends on the specific model year and configuration, especially packages like the Max Tow Package. Towing capacity is highly variable, with a starting point of around 8,100 pounds for a 2024 model. Key factors affecting this limit include the vehicle's cab, bed length, drive type (4x2 or 4x4), axle ratio, and optional towing packages. 
You can watch this video to see a 2023 F-150 with a 5.0L V8 towing a trailer: 1mGetty's GarageYouTube · Jun 17, 2023

• Maximum capacity: The 5.0L V8 can be configured to tow a maximum of 12,900 pounds with the correct equipment, like the Max Tow Package and other specific features. 
• Configuration is key: The towing capacity is not a single number and changes based on the truck's setup. For example: 
  • A 2025 F-150 with a 5.0L V8 in a SuperCrew with a 5.5-foot bed and 4x4 can reach up to 12,900 pounds with the right packages. 
  • Other configurations, like a Regular Cab with an 8-foot bed and 4x4, may have a lower maximum capacity of around 10,400 pounds. 
• Always check specifics: You should always check the specific vehicle's window sticker or owner's manual for the exact towing capacity. Many factors, including payload, can limit how much you can tow. 

Can a Mustang pull a trailer?

Yes, a Ford Mustang can tow a trailer, but its towing capacity is low and limited to about 1,000 pounds, according to the owner's manual. While towing is possible for light loads, it is not recommended as the primary function of the vehicle, and models like the Shelby GT500 and Mach 1 are not rated for towing at all. You should check your specific model's owner's manual and doorjamb sticker for the precise towing capacity before attempting to tow.
 
Key considerations for towing with a Mustang
You can watch this video to learn about the towing capacity of Mustang Mach-E: 56sEV RiderYouTube · Feb 15, 2023

• Towing capacity: The official recommendation is to stay within the 1,000-pound limit, which includes both the trailer and any cargo. Exceeding this can be unsafe. 
• Not recommended: Towing is generally not recommended for a Mustang, especially for anything more than a very light load like a small utility trailer or a jet ski. It's more practical to rent a truck for this purpose. 
• Safety and performance:
  • Towing significantly impacts acceleration and braking. You should exercise caution, especially in wet or hilly conditions. 
  • Avoid using cruise control with a heavy load or on inclines, as the system may automatically disengage. 
• Modifications:
  • You will need to install an aftermarket trailer hitch and wiring harness, as Ford does not offer factory towing equipment for the Mustang. 
  • For models that require it, you may need to cut the rear bumper to accommodate the hitch. 
• Specific models:
  • Models like the Shelby GT500 and Mach 1 are not rated for towing trailers. 
  • The Ford Mustang Mach-E is an electric vehicle, and while it has been used for towing, it significantly reduces its range and requires careful planning for charging. 

This video explains how to properly strap down a Mustang on a trailer: 42sCJ Pony PartsYouTube · Mar 15, 2023

What year Mustang to stay away from?

You should be wary of certain model years due to a history of poor reliability, quality issues, or performance problems, particularly the second generation (1974-1978), the early third generation (1979-1984), and models from 2005-2012, 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2022. Issues span from performance and handling to build quality and specific engine or transmission problems, with the 2010 model year specifically cited for body and paint issues. 
Years to avoid

• Second Generation (1974-1978): This generation, including the Mustang II, is often considered one of the least desirable due to poor performance and lack of style. 
• Early Third Generation (1979-1984): These models are frequently cited as ones to avoid. 
• 2005-2010: Some models from this era had issues with top-end engine failures and quality problems, including body and paint defects on the 2010 model. 
• 2006: This year had reports of unintended acceleration, stalling, and body paint issues. 
• 2010-2012: Specifically, the 2010 is known for body and paint defects, while the 2011 and 2012 had engine problems, including with the 3.7-liter V6. 
• 2011-2019: The 6-speed manual transmission in these models is a particular point of concern and has been the subject of lawsuits. 
• 2015-2016: These years saw numerous recalls, including issues with 2.3-liter EcoBoost fuel vapor lines, door latches, and airbags. 
• 2018-2020: These model years had various recalls, with specific issues including a missing roll pin on the 2018 and a front camera calibration and inoperative rearview camera on the 2020. 
• 2022: Sales numbers for this year were the lowest in the Mustang's history, which, while not a direct indicator of quality, does show it was a less popular and successful model year. 

Can I put a trailer hitch on a Mustang?

A vehicle-specific design ensures the best possible fit with the simplest and most secure installation. This particular class 1 hitch offers a custom fit for certain years of the Ford Mustang (to verify vehicle compatibility, see the application information or use the Vehicle Lookup tool).