How much weight can a Ford Explorer Sport tow?
For most modern Ford Explorer Sport models, the maximum tow rating is 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Older Explorer Sport Trac pickups could tow roughly 6,700–7,000 pounds, depending on the engine and year.
What influences the towing limit?
Towing capacity is published by Ford for each powertrain configuration and depends on equipment such as the factory towing package, hitch, trailer brakes, and weight distribution. To reach the published maximum, you typically need the proper towing package and the recommended hitch class, plus adherence to weight limits, tongue weight, and payload constraints. Always verify the exact rating for your specific vehicle’s VIN in the owner's manual or on the door jamb label, since trim, drivetrain, and options can affect the limit.
Current Ford Explorer Sport: engines and typical tow ratings
Engine options and corresponding towing limits
The figures below reflect typical maximums for recent model years when equipped with Ford’s factory towing package. Actual ratings vary by drivetrain and options.
- 2.3L EcoBoost inline-4: up to 3,000 pounds
- 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (and hybrid variants on this platform): up to 5,000 pounds
- Hybrid models with the 3.3L V6 hybrid system: up to 5,000 pounds
Note: These are upper-limit figures published by Ford for common configurations. Always check the vehicle’s label or owner’s manual for the exact rating on your specific build.
Historic note: Explorer Sport Trac towing capacity
Before the current Explorer lineup, Ford sold the Explorer Sport Trac, a mid-size pickup variant. Its towing capacity depended on the engine and year, but most configurations ranged from roughly 6,700 to 7,000 pounds, with higher ratings typically associated with the larger V6 or V8 options. These figures apply to older models and are not representative of today’s Explorer lineup.
- 4.0L SOHC V6: typically around 6,500–6,800 pounds
- 4.6L V8 (where available): around 7,000–7,100 pounds
As a historical note, the Sport Trac is no longer sold as new, but it remains a reference point for towing capability in the broader Explorer family’s history.
Tips for safe towing with an Explorer Sport
Keeping towing safe requires attention to equipment, weight limits, and driving technique. The following best practices help ensure stability, braking, and control while towing.
- Use the factory tow package and a properly rated hitch and wiring harness for your specific configuration.
- Know the GVWR, GTWR (gross trailer weight), and tongue weight for your vehicle and trailer; do not exceed these limits.
- Distribute weight correctly with a weight-distributing hitch when required and use trailer brakes if mandated or recommended by Ford or local law.
- Inspect tires, brakes, lights, and wiring before each towing trip; ensure tires are rated for the combined load.
Adhering to these guidelines helps prevent overloading, enhances braking performance, and maintains stability during towing with the Explorer Sport.
Summary
In brief, the current Ford Explorer Sport line typically tops out at 5,000 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped. The older Explorer Sport Trac pickup could tow about 6,700–7,000 pounds, depending on the engine and year. Always confirm the exact rating for your vehicle and follow Ford’s towing guidelines in the owner's manual.
