Can you tow a trailer with a Ford Explorer?
Yes—most Ford Explorer models can tow trailers up to roughly 5,000–5,600 pounds when properly equipped. The exact limit depends on engine choice, drivetrain, and whether you have the Tow Package. Always verify the specific figure for your vehicle in the owner's manual or on the door jamb sticker.
Understanding the towing capacity across engines and models
Explore how engine choice and factory options affect what you can tow. The Explorer's maximum trailer weight isn't universal; it changes with engine, axle ratio, drivetrain, and optional towing hardware. Below are general ranges you might see in recent years.
Before listing the capacities, note that numbers vary by model year and configuration. Always confirm with your VIN-specific rating.
- 2.3L EcoBoost I4 with Tow Package: commonly around 5,000–5,300 pounds.
- 3.0L EcoBoost V6: up to about 5,600 pounds.
- Hybrid variant: typically up to about 5,000 pounds.
- Note: Some trims without a Tow Package have lower ratings or none at all; always confirm the exact figure for your vehicle.
In practice, many drivers will see 5,000–5,600 pounds as the practical upper bound for most modern Explorers when properly equipped.
What equipment do you need to tow safely?
To achieve the listed capacities and to tow safely, you’ll need the right hardware and systems. Ford typically requires a factory-installed Tow Package that includes a heavy-duty radiator, engine oil cooler, upgraded transmission cooling, a 2-inch hitch receiver, Trailer Sway Control, and wiring harness. Some very light tows may not require the full package, but check your VIN and the owner's manual.
Before describing the required components, here is a quick overview of what to expect:
- Hitch class: For most Explorers, a Class III hitch with a 2-inch receiver is standard; Class IV is used for higher weights if specified for your vehicle.
- Wiring harness: Usually a 4-pin or 7-pin connector, depending on trailer lighting and braking needs.
- Trailer brakes: If your trailer weight exceeds certain thresholds or state requirements, consider a trailer brake controller (integrated or aftermarket).
- Weight distribution and tongue weight: Aim for tongue weight around 10–15% of the trailer's loaded weight where appropriate and within the vehicle's ratings.
Concluding, with the proper equipment and adherence to ratings, towing with an Explorer is feasible for campers, cargo trailers, boats, and more.
Practical towing tips and safety reminders
Safety is about more than numbers. Weight management, braking, and road awareness are critical when towing with an SUV like the Explorer. Here are practical tips to keep in mind:
- Always stay within the vehicle’s payload and towing limits, including GCWR (gross combined weight rating).
- Use a weight-distribution hitch if recommended for your trailer to improve stability and braking.
- Check tires, ensure trailer brakes (if required) function, and verify lighting and wiring.
- Practice turning, stopping, and backing with a trailer to build confidence; allow extra distance for stopping.
- Be aware of local laws on trailer brakes, lighting, and weight limits.
Following these practices helps ensure safety and minimizes wear on both the Explorer and the trailer.
FAQs and quick references
Can I tow with a front-wheel-drive Ford Explorer?
Yes, but towing capacity may be reduced. All-wheel drive variants typically provide similar towing ratings when properly equipped, but traction and handling differ with drivetrain choice.
Do I need a special weight distribution hitch?
For heavier trailers near the vehicle's limit or with challenging tongue weight, a weight-distribution hitch is recommended to improve stability and braking performance.
What about towing a boat trailer or travel trailer?
Many Explorers can tow mid-size boat or travel trailers within the typical 5,000–5,600-pound range, provided you have the Tow Package and appropriate hitch. Heavier campers may not be suitable.
Summary: The Ford Explorer can tow trailers safely when properly equipped, with the engine and Tow Package determining the exact maximum. Always verify VIN-specific ratings, install the recommended hardware, and follow safe towing practices for optimal performance.
What year to stay away from Ford Explorer?
You should generally stay away from 2002–2006 Ford Explorers due to widespread transmission failures and other issues like engine and suspension problems. Other years with significant problems include 2016, with a large recall involving faulty fuel tanks and suspension components, and 2020, which had many recalls and customer complaints.
2002–2006 models
- These models are widely considered the least reliable, with a major reputation for transmission failures that can be very expensive to fix.
- Owners also reported engine problems (like timing chain and head gasket issues), suspension wear, and electrical malfunctions.
Other years to approach with caution
- 2016: This year had a recall involving faulty suspension components and a fuel tank.
- 2020: This model year had a high number of recalls and complaints, including issues with the transmission, power loss, and a potential rollaway defect.
- 2008: This model year is also listed by some sources as a year to avoid due to low owner satisfaction scores and recalls.
What size trailer can a Ford Explorer pull?
Here are the maximum capacities for each 2024 trim: Explorer Timberline: Tows up to 5,300 pounds with proper equipment. Explorer ST-Line: Tows up to 5,300 pounds with proper equipment. Explorer King Ranch: Tows up to 5,600 pounds with proper equipment.
How do I know if my Explorer has a towing package?
How to tell if a used Ford Explorer has the towing package
- Look for a 2” receiver that appears factory-integrated.
- Check for a 7-pin plug (round) near the hitch.
- Pop the hood: larger cooling fan/shroud on many equipped models.
- Ask us to pull the original window sticker/build sheet and confirm tow code content.
Is a Ford Explorer a good towing vehicle?
What is the best Ford Explorer year for towing? The Ford Explorer SUV's 2024 model can be seen as the best year for towing, as it's the most modern Explorer with a towing capacity above 5,000 pounds,1 specifically reaching up to 5,600 pounds when configured with a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V-6.
