Is tow package standard on Ford Explorer?
No—the Tow Package is not standard equipment on the Ford Explorer. It is an optional upgrade that must be selected if you plan to tow and want access to the highest towing ratings.
More context: Ford offers the Tow Package (often labeled Trailer Tow Package or Trailering Package in some years) as an add-on across multiple Explorer model years. The exact contents and the maximum towing capacity vary by engine, drivetrain, and year. To know the precise setup for a given vehicle, check the window sticker or the dealer’s build sheet for that model year.
What the Tow Package typically includes
Before listing the package contents, note that the exact equipment can change by year and trim. The Tow Package generally adds components that support safer and more capable towing.
- Class III hitch receiver (typically 2-inch)
- 4- and 7-pin wiring harness for trailer electrical connections
- Trailer sway control to help stabilize a towed load
- Engine and transmission cooling enhancements (such as engine oil cooler, transmission cooler, and sometimes a heavier-duty radiator)
- Other towing-related hardware or tuning as specified by the model year
The package content can vary by year and trim, and some configurations may bundle Tow with other options or packages. Always confirm the exact components on the specific vehicle you’re considering.
Notes on year-to-year variations
Because Ford periodically updates equipment group naming and content, a Tow Package in one model year may appear as Trailer Tow Package or Trailering Package in another. Always verify the exact naming and included items on the vehicle’s window sticker or dealership documentation.
How towing capacity varies with the Tow Package
The maximum towing capacity when the Tow Package is installed depends on the Explorer’s engine and drivetrain. Here are typical figures seen in recent model years when the package is equipped with appropriate powertrain.
- 2.3L EcoBoost engine with Tow Package: up to about 5,300 pounds
- 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine with Tow Package: up to about 5,600 pounds
These figures can differ by year, wheel drive configuration, and trailer setup. Always refer to the specific model year’s Ford official towing chart or the window sticker for exact numbers.
Why the numbers matter
Towing capacity is not a fixed number across all Explorers. It changes with the engine option, axle ratio, suspension tuning, and whether the vehicle is equipped with the Tow Package. Exceeding the rated capacity can affect safety, warranty coverage, and vehicle performance.
How to tell if your Explorer has the Tow Package
Use these steps to confirm whether a specific Explorer includes the Tow Package or Trailer Tow Package.
- Check the window sticker or the dealer’s build sheet for “Tow Package,” “Trailer Tow Package,” or “Trailering Package.”
- Inspect the rear for a Class III hitch receiver (usually 2 inches) and a 7-pin wiring harness in addition to a 4-pin connector.
- Look for trailer-sway control as part of the vehicle’s safety features list or the tow package documentation.
- In FordPass or the Owner’s Manual, verify the vehicle’s towing specifications and available equipment; the presence of the Tow Package is often noted in the vehicle’s configuration.
If none of these indicators are present, the Explorer is likely not equipped with the Tow Package and may have a lower towing capacity.
Summary
The Ford Explorer does not come with a Tow Package as standard equipment. It is an available upgrade that enables higher towing capacity and adds components to support towing safely. The exact content and the maximum towing rating depend on the model year and engine, so always verify the specific vehicle’s equipment list and official towing specs before towing.
