Do Ford Explorers have tow hitches?
Yes. Ford Explorers can be equipped with a tow hitch, typically a 2-inch Class III receiver that is part of Ford’s Trailer Tow Package. Some models offer the hitch as standard or optional, and aftermarket options are widely available.
Whether your specific Explorer has a hitch depends on the model year and trim. The hitch enables towing trailers, boats, or campers, and the available towing capacity varies by engine and drivetrain. This article explains how to identify a hitch, what comes with the tow package, and how to verify your vehicle’s capabilities.
Understanding towing capability in the Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is designed to haul trailers when properly equipped. A hitch receiver is the physical connection point, while the electrical wiring and cooling upgrades support safe towing. Capacity varies by engine choice and drive configuration, so it is essential to know your exact specs before hitching up a trailer.
Key components of the Trailer Tow Package
Before listing the typical elements you’ll encounter with the Tow Package, it helps to know what to look for on your vehicle or when shopping for one:
- 2-inch hitch receiver (Class III) mounted to the rear of the vehicle
- Trailer wiring harness (often 4-pin and/or 7-pin connectors)
- Electrical wiring and trailer brake control where applicable
- Enhanced cooling for towing, such as engine oil cooler and/or radiator enhancements
- Trailer sway control and other towing-assist features where offered
- Vehicle-tow rating that varies by engine, drivetrain, and configuration
Having these components indicates the vehicle is equipped for towing and able to handle a trailer safely, within its rated capacity. If your Explorer lacks any of these items, you may still install an aftermarket hitch, wiring, and related hardware, though you should confirm towing limits first.
Model-year and trim variations
Across recent generations, Ford offered a Trailer Tow Package as either a standalone option or, in some trims, as part of higher-level packages. The availability and specifics can vary by model year, engine choice (for example, EcoBoost engines versus larger V6), and whether the vehicle is front- or all-wheel drive. In many configurations, the hitch is a 2-inch Class III receiver, and the total towing capacity can reach up to about 5,000 pounds or slightly more when properly equipped. Always verify the exact rating for your specific vehicle.
How to verify on your Ford Explorer
To confirm whether a specific Explorer has a tow hitch and its towing limits, use these checks:
- Look under the rear bumper for the 2-inch hitch receiver and any visible wiring plugs (4- or 7-pin).
- Check the vehicle’s window sticker or original build sheet for “Trailer Tow Package” or similar wording.
- Consult the owner’s manual or Ford’s official configuration for your exact model year and trim to confirm towing capacity.
- Ask a Ford dealer or check Ford’s online build tool if you’re shopping for a new or certified pre-owned Explorer.
If you discover your Explorer does not have a hitch, you can usually add a factory-approved trailer tow hitch or a reputable aftermarket hitch, along with the appropriate wiring harness, while keeping within the vehicle’s towing limits.
Bottom line and practical guidance
For owners, the practical takeaway is straightforward: most Ford Explorers are compatible with tow hitches, and many models either come with or can be fitted with a 2-inch Class III hitch as part of a Tow Package. Always verify the exact towing rating for your specific vehicle before pulling a trailer, and ensure the correct hitch, wiring, and braking provisions are in place for safe towing.
Summary
Ford Explorers generally support towing via a tow hitch, with a standard or optional 2-inch Class III hitch through the Trailer Tow Package. Availability and capacity depend on model year, engine, and trim. If you’re unsure whether your Explorer has a hitch, check under the bumper, review the vehicle’s documentation, or consult a Ford dealer. With proper equipment and within its rated limit, the Explorer can tow reliably and safely.
How much does it cost to add a trailer hitch to a Ford Explorer?
The total cost to install a trailer hitch on a Ford Explorer typically ranges from approximately $250 to $1,000, which includes both parts and labor. The cost can be lower if you are only installing a basic hitch for light use like carrying bikes, or higher if you need a heavy-duty hitch and a wiring harness for a trailer, according to CURT Manufacturing and etrailer.com.
Cost breakdown
This video explains the cost of adding a trailer hitch to your vehicle: 1mCounty Office LawYouTube · Jun 27, 2024
- Parts (Hitch):
- Aftermarket hitch: $150 to $300.
- OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) hitch: $250 to $500.
- Parts (Wiring and accessories):
- Wiring harness: $50 to $150.
- Trailer brake controller: $100 to $300.
- Installation (Labor):
- Professional installation: $100 to $300, depending on the shop and complexity.
- DIY: You can save money by installing it yourself, but you will still need to purchase the parts.
- **Some shops, like U-Haul, may offer a lifetime warranty on their installations for a specific price, notes U-Haul.
Do Ford Explorers come with a tow package?
All four 2025 editions come with a 10-speed automatic transmission, a standard Class 3 Trailer Tow Package, and Trailer Sway Control.
What year Explorer to stay away from?
You should stay away from the 2002–2006 Ford Explorer models due to frequent and expensive transmission problems, engine issues, and suspension wear. Other years to avoid include the 2016 and 2020 models, which have reported issues with electrical systems, faulty parts, and transmission problems.
Model years to avoid
- 2002–2006: The third generation is widely considered the least reliable due to significant transmission failures, engine problems (like timing chain issues), and premature suspension wear. The 2002 model year has the highest number of overall complaints, primarily for its transmission.
- 2016: This model year has been criticized for issues like faulty fuel tanks and suspension components, as well as poor rearward visibility and lack of interior storage.
- 2020: As the first year of the current design, the 2020 model is noted for a high number of recalls, particularly involving transmission problems that can cause stalling and power loss.
Other years with potential issues
- 2011–2019: This generation has drawn complaints about electrical system problems.
- Early 2021 models: Some 2021 models built in late 2020 and early 2021 had issues, though later models made in late 2021 are generally considered more reliable.
Do all Ford Explorers have a hitch?
The Ford Explorer does not always come with a trailer hitch as standard equipment, but it can be equipped with one depending on the trim level and whether it has the factory towing package. CURT also offers aftermarket hitches that will fit your Ford Explorer.
