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How much weight can a F-150 legally tow?

The Ford F-150 is one of the most popular and versatile pickup trucks on the market, known for its impressive towing capabilities. But just how much weight can an F-150 legally tow? Let's dive into the details.


Towing Capacity Varies by Model


The towing capacity of the Ford F-150 can vary significantly depending on the specific model and configuration. The maximum towing capacity for an F-150 ranges from 5,000 pounds up to 14,000 pounds. This wide range is due to factors such as the engine size, drivetrain, and other available options.p>

Factors That Affect Towing Capacity


Several key factors influence the towing capacity of an F-150 truck:



  • Engine Size: Larger engines, such as the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 or the 5.0L V8, generally provide higher towing capacities compared to smaller engines.

  • Drivetrain: Four-wheel-drive (4WD) models typically have a higher towing capacity than two-wheel-drive (2WD) models.

  • Payload Capacity: The amount of weight the truck can safely carry in the bed and cab also affects the maximum towing capacity.

  • Trailer Type: The type of trailer being towed, such as a travel trailer or a fifth-wheel trailer, can impact the towing capacity.


It's important to consult the owner's manual or the information on the driver's side door jamb sticker to determine the specific towing capacity for your F-150 model.p>

Staying Within Legal Limits


When towing with an F-150, it's crucial to stay within the legal weight limits to ensure safety and avoid potential fines or penalties. Exceeding the maximum towing capacity can put strain on the vehicle, increase the risk of accidents, and potentially damage the truck or the trailer.


By understanding the towing capacity of your F-150 and adhering to the legal weight limits, you can safely and confidently use your truck to haul heavy loads, whether it's a boat, a camper, or a trailer full of equipment.

What F-150 can tow 12000 lbs?


All new for 2021, the available 3.5L PowerBoost™ Full Hybrid V6 delivers Built Ford Tough® capability with most torque in an F-150, and 12,700 pounds of available maximum towing capacity3 with an EPA-estimated range of approximately 700 miles on a single tank of gas.



Is EcoBoost or V8 better for towing?


V-8 engines traditionally offer better towing and payload capacities than a V-6, especially for sustained periods of time, such as during a long trip. However, the EcoBoost technology has closed the gap between the V-6 and the V-8, and in certain models, the EcoBoost can actually out-muscle a naturally aspirated V-8.



Can a F-150 really tow 14000 lbs?


The Ford F-150 towing capacity is an impressive maximum of 13,500 pounds1 but will depend on your chosen configuration. For example, a 2025 F-150 SuperCrew 4x4 with a 5.5-foot bed and equipped with the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine will have a towing capacity of 8,000 pounds.



Can a F-150 really tow 10,000 lbs?


F‑150 Lightning is an all‑electric truck with real‑world functionality and 320 miles of all‑electric range. 1 It goes to work like an F‑150 and offers the same BUILT FORD TOUGH® durability as all F‑Series pickups. F‑150 Lightning brings features such as a maximum towing rating of 10,000 lbs.



Which Ford F-150 engine is best for towing?


3.5L EcoBoost® V6 engine
The 2021 F-150 3.5L EcoBoost® V6 engine boasts a best-in-class towing capability of 14,000 pounds.



Which F-150 engine is best for towing?


3.5L EcoBoost® V6 engine
The 2021 F-150 3.5L EcoBoost® V6 engine boasts a best-in-class towing capability of 14,000 pounds.



How much weight can a F-150 legally tow?


5000 lbs
All F-150 trucks can tow 5000 lbs minimum. Beyond that the truck needed to have a tow package from the factory to tow more. If the truck has no tow package from the factory, you are limited to the 5000 lbs. It doesn't matter if the truck has the 5.0 V8 or Ecoboost or whatever, you are legally limited to 5000 lbs.



What trucks can tow $15,000?


For a 15,000-pound trailer, you'll typically need a heavy-duty truck. Some heavy-duty truck options that fit this bill include the Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty, the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and 3500HD, the GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500HD, and the Ram 2500 and 3500.



What year is F-150 best for towing?


2012 F-150
If you're hunting for a great used truck, the 2012 Ford F-150 is often at the top of the list. This year brought in the 3.5L EcoBoost V-6 engine, giving you both power and fuel economy. It also shines when it comes to towing and payload capacity, making it perfect for anyone who needs a tough workhorse.



Can an F-150 pull a 6000 lb trailer?


The towing capacity of the new 2024 Ford F-150 trucks ranges from 5,000 pounds to 13,500 pounds when properly equipped. If your fully loaded horse trailer falls within those parameters and your F-150 truck is set up for that tow rating, your new Ford truck can tow a horse trailer.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.