Does a Mustang have a tow hitch?
In most configurations, a Ford Mustang does not come with a factory tow hitch. Some model years offered a Trailer Tow Package that included a hitch and wiring, and aftermarket options are widely available for others.
As towing is not the primary purpose of a Mustang, Ford's official options vary by year, trim, and market. This article explains when a hitch might be factory-installed, how to verify your car's capabilities, and what to consider if you want to tow with a Mustang.
Factory Tow Packages: Availability and specs
Ford has offered a Trailer Tow Package on certain Mustangs in the past. The package generally added the necessary hitch hardware and wiring, and in some cases cooling and power-upgrades. Availability depends on the engine choice (EcoBoost or V8), drivetrain, and year. Always confirm with Ford's official spec sheet or a dealer for your VIN.
- The presence of a factory 2-inch hitch receiver is a common feature of any Trailer Tow Package on Mustangs that supported towing.
- A wiring harness suitable for trailer lighting is typically included with the package.
- Some configurations required additional cooling or reinforced hardware beyond the base model; check the specific package details for your year and engine.
- Not all model years offered a factory tow option; many Mustangs require aftermarket towing solutions if towing is desired.
For owners curious about the exact setup, always refer to the official Ford documentation for your year, or ask a Ford dealer to review the build sheet or VIN-based specs.
What to know if you plan to tow
If your Mustang is equipped with a trailer tow package or you are considering aftermarket plans, keep these considerations in mind. Towing imposes limits on speed, loading, and engine cooling; exceeding ratings can impact safety and warranty.
- Check the towing capacity for your specific engine and transmission configuration. It varies by year and trim and is typically documented in the owner's manual and the window sticker.
- Ensure you have the correct hitch class and a compatible wiring harness for trailer lights and braking (if equipped).
- For heavy towing, consider additional equipment such as a transmission cooler or engine oil cooler as recommended by Ford or the installer.
- Always verify legal and insurance requirements for towing in your jurisdiction and ensure your vehicle's tires and braking are rated for the load.
Otherwise, when factory options are not available, aftermarket hitch installation is a common path. It’s important to select a hitch and harness rated for your Mustang's payload and to have it installed by a professional if you are not confident in DIY mounting.
Summary
In short, a Ford Mustang is not universally equipped with a tow hitch from the factory. Some years and trims offered a Trailer Tow Package with a 2-inch hitch and wiring, but availability varies. If towing is essential, check your specific year and VIN, consult Ford's official specifications, and consider an aftermarket hitch installed by a professional while observing payload and braking limits.
Can you put a hitch on a car that doesn't have a hitch?
Can you add a tow hitch to a car that doesn't have one? The good news is that installing a hitch is possible and relatively straightforward for vehicles not initially equipped for towing. The process begins with choosing the right hitch for your vehicle's make, model, and towing capacity.
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.
Do Mustangs have a tow hitch?
Mustang does not offer factory-installed towing equipment for this application; only available as aftermarket accessory. 2.
Which cars come with a tow hitch?
Built to Tow: Top Vehicles with Factory-Installed Trailer Hitches
- Ford Expedition.
- Toyota Sequoia.
- Nissan Titan.
- Jeep Wagoneer.
