How much weight can a V6 Ford Explorer pull?
The V6 Ford Explorer can tow up to about 5,300 pounds when properly equipped.
This article explains the towing limits for V6 Explorers, how Ford defines those numbers, and what you need to tow safely. Towing capacity varies by engine choice, drivetrain, and optional equipment, so check your door sticker and owner’s manual for your exact rating.
Understanding the V6 towing limit on the Explorer
Ford's published figures reflect the maximum weight the vehicle can pull under ideal conditions with proper equipment, including a hitch, brake controller, and trailer brakes if required. The actual usable towing capacity for a given vehicle can be less due to cargo, passengers, and additional vehicle options.
Key factors that determine the usable towing capacity and safe towing performance include the following:
- Tow package and required hardware: Class III hitch, wiring, and often a transmission cooler and engine oil cooler.
- Drivetrain configuration: rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and whether the vehicle is equipped with a Tow/Haul mode.
- Trailer brakes: A trailer with electric brakes may be required to meet regulatory and safety standards; some ratings assume trailer brakes are installed on the trailer.
- Payload and tongue weight: The vehicle’s passengers and cargo reduce the available capacity for towing; tongue weight is typically 10–15% of the trailer’s gross weight.
- Safety and compliance: GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) must not be exceeded.
With those elements in place, the Explorer can approach the published maximum, while neglecting any one of them can reduce usable towing capacity.
V6 engine options and their impact on towing
The Explorer has used turbocharged V6 engines in recent years. The primary V6 option for higher towing is the 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6. In configurations that Ford classifies as suitable for towing, this engine, together with Ford's Tow Package, yields a maximum of 5,300 pounds. Always verify the exact rating on your vehicle’s door jamb sticker, since the figure can vary by model year, drivetrain, and options.
3.0-liter EcoBoost V6
With the Tow Package and proper equipment, Ford lists a maximum conventional towing capacity of 5,300 pounds for the Explorer equipped with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6. Always verify the exact rating on your vehicle’s door jamb sticker, since the figure can vary by model year, drivetrain, and options.
Hybrid and other V6 configurations
Hybrid and other V6 variants exist in the Explorer lineup, but towing figures can vary by model year and equipment. For precise numbers, refer to the specific vehicle’s label and Ford’s official specifications for your exact build.
To maximize safety and performance when towing with a V6 Explorer, follow these guidelines:
- Use the Tow/Haul mode when towing to optimize transmission shifts and engine performance.
- Ensure the vehicle has the proper class of hitch (usually Class III) and a trailer brake controller if required for the weight you are towing.
- Verify trailer brakes are functioning and correctly synchronized with the vehicle.
- Distribute weight properly and keep tongue weight around 10–15% of the trailer’s gross weight.
- Check tire load ratings, maintain proper tire pressure, and ensure the vehicle’s GVWR/GCWR is not exceeded.
Always consult your owner's manual and the door jamb sticker on your specific vehicle to confirm the exact towing capacity and guidelines for your build.
Summary
In general, a V6 Ford Explorer can pull up to 5,300 pounds when equipped with the appropriate towing package and hardware. The exact number depends on model year, drivetrain, and optional equipment, so verify your specific rating on the vehicle’s label and follow Ford’s safety guidelines for towing. For any heavy towing, plan ahead with proper brakes, hitch, and load distribution to ensure safe operation.
Is the Ford Explorer 3.5 V6 a good engine?
"The standard 290-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 on the Ford Explorer is fine for most people, offering decent power and acceptable fuel economy. The 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine makes a good argument for itself though.
What is the towing capacity of the Ford Explorer 3.0 V6?
5,600 lbs.
How much can a 3.0 L EcoBoost V6 engine tow?
5,000 lbs.
How much weight can a 3.5 L V6 pull?
Weight Range: 9,000 - 13,500 lbs.
They rely on the 3.5L EcoBoost® V6, which provides 13,500 lbs. of towing capacity when properly equipped.
