What Ford models are flat towable?
Very few Ford models are officially approved for flat towing behind a motorhome, and for most newer Fords with automatic transmissions flat towing isn’t recommended or supported. To know for sure, you must check the exact model year, engine, and transmission against Ford’s official towing guidance and the vehicle’s owner’s manual.
Context: what flat towing means for Ford vehicles
Flat towing, or dinghy towing, means towing a vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. Whether a Ford can be towed this way depends on the drivetrain configuration, transmission type, transfer case (for 4x4 models), and the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific year and trim. Even if one model was flat-towable in a previous year, a change in powertrain or transmission can alter its status in subsequent years. Always verify with Ford’s official resources before attempting to tow any Ford behind a motorhome.
How to determine whether a specific Ford model is flat-towed
To determine if your Ford is flat-towable, follow these steps to verify year-by-year compatibility and required procedures.
- Identify the exact model year, trim level, engine, and transmission on the vehicle you plan to tow.
- Consult Ford’s official towing/flat-tow guide for that year. Ford publishes year-specific guidance that covers allowed configurations and neutral positions, if any.
- Check the owner’s manual for the “dinghy towing” or “flat towing” section, and note any mileage limits, required equipment, or restrictions.
- Determine whether the vehicle requires a specific transfer-case setting, driveshaft disconnect, steering lock considerations, or engine-on lubrication requirements.
- Contact Ford Customer Service or a certified Ford dealership for written confirmation if the guide or manual is unclear or if you’re dealing with a special configuration.
- If approved for flat towing, follow Ford’s exact procedures and use any recommended towing accessories, as deviations can affect warranty and safety.
Keep in mind that even within the same model line, different engine or transmission options can change flat-towability status. Always rely on the official, model-year-specific guidance rather than general assumptions.
Where to find current, model-specific guidance
Locating up-to-date, model-specific information is essential because Ford’s approvals can change with new releases, recalls, or service campaigns. Use these sources as a primary reference.
- Ford’s official towing guide and flat-tow documentation on Ford’s consumer site or dealer portals for your exact model year.
- The owner’s manual for your vehicle, specifically the sections on towing, dinghy towing, and transfer-case/drive-system instructions.
- Your local Ford dealership or Ford Customer Service, which can provide written confirmation for your vehicle and configuration.
- RV industry towing guides and reputable towing equipment manufacturers that summarize manufacturer approvals, along with any caveats or updated advisories.
Because the information is highly year- and configuration-specific, it’s best to verify with these sources before planning any flat-tow operation.
Important considerations when flat towing Ford models
Transmission and drivetrain limitations
The vast majority of modern Fords with automatic transmissions are not designed for flat towing. If a model is approved, Ford typically specifies precise neutral positions, engine states, or additional equipment (like a transmission lubrication solution or a steering disconnect). 4x4 systems, transfer-case design, and whether the vehicle is front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive all influence towability. Even approved models may have mileage limits or require disabling certain systems during towing.
- Avoid assuming flat towing is universal across all trims or years of the same model.
- Follow the exact neutral/park/engine-off requirements provided by Ford for the specific year/model.
- Be aware that some models require the engine to be running to maintain lubrication or electronics, which defeats the purpose of flat towing if not specified as allowed.
These technical nuances matter for safety, vehicle longevity, warranty coverage, and insurance implications.
Safety, warranty, and insurance considerations
Even when flat towing is approved, using the wrong setup or deviating from Ford’s instructions can void warranties or affect insurance coverage. Always document official guidance and keep written confirmation of the approved towing method and any required equipment or alterations.
- Verify warranty terms for flat towing and any required modifications or accessories.
- Ensure your towing setup (hitches, braking systems, and safety chains) complies with both Ford’s guidance and local regulations.
- Consider professional installation or inspection of any required components to minimize component wear and risk.
Practical steps for planning a tow
With the above considerations in mind, plan ahead to avoid surprises on the road or at RV parks. Always bring the official documentation when you travel and be prepared to adapt if your model’s guidance changes in a future year.
Summary
Flat towing Ford vehicles is a highly model-year- and configuration-specific matter. Most modern Fords with automatic transmissions are not approved for flat towing, and even among those that are, exact procedures, equipment, and mileage limits vary by year and drivetrain. To determine whether a particular Ford model is flat towable, verify the model year, engine, and transmission against Ford’s official towing guide and the owner’s manual, and when in doubt, obtain written confirmation from Ford or a dealership. If you share a specific model year and configuration, I can help look for the most current, official guidance available.
Quick takeaway for readers
If you’re planning to flat-tow a Ford, start with the exact year and drivetrain, consult Ford’s official towing documentation, and rely on model-year-specific instructions rather than general assumptions. For a precise answer, provide the exact Ford model and year, and I’ll help locate the official guidance.
