Can you put a towbar on a Mustang?
Yes—it's possible to fit a towbar (tow hitch) to many Mustangs, but availability depends on year, trim, and whether Ford offered a factory trailer tow option. If towing is a priority, you’ll likely use an aftermarket hitch and electrical harness, with important limits and potential warranty considerations.
The article below explains factory vs aftermarket options, what to check before towing, installation and safety steps, and the legal implications of towing with a pony car. It aims to help you decide whether a towbar makes sense for your Mustang and how to do it correctly.
Factory options vs aftermarket
Most Mustangs do not come with a factory trailer tow package, but some model years or markets may offer limited dealer-installed options. For many owners, an aftermarket hitch is the practical route. The choice affects hitch class, wiring, and warranty considerations.
- Factory trailer tow package availability: On select model years and trims, Ford offered a dealer-installed trailer tow option that could include a hitch receiver, wiring harness, and sometimes cooling upgrades. Availability and exact contents vary by year and region.
- Aftermarket hitch options: A standard 2-inch receiver is most common for Mustangs; Class II/III hitches are typical choices depending on the anticipated load. Confirm bumper clearance and mounting points before purchase.
- Wiring and electrical: A dedicated trailer wiring harness is needed to power trailer lights; heavier setups may require an in-cabin brake controller.
- Warranty and liability: Aftermarket installation can affect warranty coverage; professional installation is often recommended to minimize risk and to document work for any future claims.
- Practical towing limits: Even with a hitch, the vehicle’s chassis and powertrain define safe towing limits. Always verify the official rating for your exact vehicle before towing anything.
In practice, talking to a Ford dealer or a reputable hitch installer provides the clearest path to a compliant setup, including any service advisories that could affect towing.
Model-year and trim considerations
Model year and trim level influence whether a factory tow option existed and how towing fits within the vehicle’s overall payload. In many generations, the Mustang is not framed as a primary towing vehicle, so practical towing is typically limited to light trailers with careful load management.
Engine and drivetrain considerations
- Powertrain differences: V6, EcoBoost, and V8 variants offer different torque profiles; while some engines handle light trailers better, rated towing capacity still applies and must not be exceeded.
- Suspension and chassis: Sports-oriented suspensions and performance packages can affect mounting options and ride characteristics when towing; ensure mounting points and clearances suit your chosen hitch.
- Weight distribution and brakes: Heavier trailers may require a weight-distributing hitch and/or trailer brakes, which adds cost and complexity.
Always verify the exact towing rating for your vehicle's year and trim and follow Ford’s official guidance. If in doubt, consult a dealer or certified technician before towing.
Installation and compliance
Installing a towbar involves selecting the right hardware, ensuring proper mounting to the frame, and integrating the electrical system. Proper installation minimizes risk to the car and trailer and helps you stay compliant with laws.
- Choose the right hitch class and receiver size based on expected trailer weight; a 2-inch receiver is the most common choice for Mustangs.
- Dedicated wiring harness: Use a harness that properly interfaces with the car’s electrical system; for heavier trailers, a brake controller in the cabin may be required by law.
- Professional installation: A qualified installer ensures secure mounting, correct wiring, and avoids interference with exhausts, sensors, or other underbody components.
- Clearance and alignment: After installation, check bumper clearance, exhaust routing, and articulation to avoid contact during turns or over bumps.
A professional installer can also advise on bumper removal if necessary and help verify that the setup won’t affect other systems (e.g., parking sensors or electronics).
Legal and safety considerations
With towing, you must follow local regulations, manufacturer guidelines, and safety best practices. Laws vary by country, state, or province, and they govern lighting, braking, and weight limits.
- Trailer brakes and brake controller requirements: Depending on trailer weight and jurisdiction, you may need electric brakes and a brake controller integrated into the vehicle.
- Lighting and wiring compliance: Ensure trailer lights function correctly and are synchronized with the vehicle signals; use proper adapters if needed.
- Insurance and warranty: Inform your insurer about towing; improper installation or overloading can affect coverage and may impact warranty claims.
Check with local motor vehicle authorities and a Ford-certified technician to confirm the rules that apply where you drive and tow.
What you can tow with a Mustang — practical guidance
In practice, Mustangs are best suited to light towing or occasional trailer use rather than frequent heavy towing. For camping gear, small utility trailers, or bikes, a properly rated hitch can work if you stay within the vehicle’s official limits and maintain safe load distribution. For anything heavier or frequent towing needs, a purpose-built towing vehicle may be a better choice.
Always refer to the precise towing rating for your exact model year and configuration, and consult a professional if you’re unsure about the load you plan to carry.
Summary
Yes, you can add a towbar to many Mustangs, but it is not a universal option and depends on model year, trim, and whether a factory tow package is available. Most owners use aftermarket hitches, paired with appropriate wiring and safety equipment, while keeping within official towing limits. Always verify specifications, follow installation best practices, and comply with local laws to tow safely.
How much does it cost to add a towbar to a car?
Expect to pay anywhere between £350 and £1,000, depending on your vehicle, the towbar type, and the electrics setup.
Can you tow with a Ford Mustang?
1. Mustang does not offer factory-installed towing equipment for this application; only available as aftermarket accessory. 2. Shelby GT500 and Mach 1 Mustang are not rated to tow a trailer.
Can you put a tow bar on a Mustang?
We at Bayside Towbars are one of the few companies in Victoria and Australia that can build and install a tow hitch or hitch bar to the Ford Mustang. Because we do custom fittings, your Ford Mustang needs to be assessed by us to determine which custom tow hitch bar needs to be fitted.
Can you put a tow 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).
