What is the tow technology package?
The Tow Technology Package is Ford’s optional towing-focused tech bundle designed to help you hitch, back up, and control a trailer more safely.
What the package is and why it matters
The package combines several trailer-focused technologies into one option to make towing easier and safer. Availability and the exact feature set vary by model year and trim, so checking with a dealer for your specific vehicle is important.
Key features you might get with Tow Technology Package
The following features are commonly bundled in Ford's Tow Technology Package and are designed to improve towing control and hitching accuracy. Availability may vary by model and year.
- Pro Trailer Backup Assist — uses a simple control to steer the truck while backing up a trailer, helping you back up with precision.
- Trailer Reverse Guidance — provides camera-based directions to guide you as you back up and maneuver a trailer.
- Dynamic Hitch Assist — helps align the hitch with the trailer coupler by guiding your approach on the rear-view camera display.
- Integrated Trailer Brake Controller — allows you to modulate the trailer’s brakes from the vehicle’s controls for smoother stops.
- Trailer Sway Control — assists in stabilizing a trailer during lane changes or gusty conditions.
- BLIS with Trailer Coverage (where equipped) — expands blind-spot monitoring to consider trailers and assist with lane changes around them.
Together, these features aim to reduce the guesswork of hitching and towing, improve braking coordination, and provide clearer guidance when maneuvering a trailer.
Where it’s offered and how to identify it
Common model applications
Ford typically offers the Tow Technology Package on select trucks and SUVs, including models like the F-150, F-Series Super Duty, and Expedition. The exact availability and feature list can change with each model year and option group, so verify on the window sticker or with a dealer.
How to confirm you have it
To confirm whether a specific vehicle is equipped with the Tow Technology Package, check the vehicle’s Monroney/window sticker, review the vehicle’s build sheet, or ask a dealer for the VIN-specific equipment list. Some features may be included as part of a larger technology or towing package, rather than as a standalone Tow Technology Package.
Buying considerations and practical tips
Prices and availability vary by year and trim, and some features may require other tow-related options. If you tow frequently, the package can offer meaningful convenience and safety benefits, but always verify the exact contents for your vehicle before purchase.
Summary
The Tow Technology Package is Ford’s towing-focused tech bundle that adds tools to help with hitching, backing up, braking, and stabilizing a trailer. Its exact features and availability depend on the model and year, so prospective buyers should check with a dealer or consult the official Ford documentation for the specific vehicle in question. When present, the package can make towing safer and more manageable by combining Pro Trailer Backup Assist, Trailer Reverse Guidance, dynamic hitch assist, and related technologies in a single option.
What does the tow package include?
A tow package includes a hitch receiver and wiring harness for trailer lights, and often adds upgraded cooling systems for the engine and transmission. Depending on the vehicle and the package's level, it can also include heavy-duty components like a stronger suspension, upgraded brakes, a more powerful alternator, and features like a trailer brake controller and integrated trailer backup assistance.
Common components
- Trailer hitch: The physical connection point to the trailer.
- Wiring harness: Connects the vehicle's lights, turn signals, and brakes to the trailer.
- Transmission cooler: Prevents the transmission from overheating during towing.
- Engine cooling system upgrades: Includes a larger radiator to help the engine maintain a safe temperature.
Advanced and heavy-duty features
- Trailer brake controller: Manages the braking system on the trailer itself.
- Upgraded suspension: Heavy-duty shocks and springs to handle the added weight.
- Heavy-duty brakes: Components designed to stop the combined vehicle and trailer weight more effectively.
- Upgraded rear axle or differential: Often includes a locking differential to improve traction.
- Larger battery and alternator: To handle the increased electrical demands from the trailer.
- Trailer sway control: Electronic systems that help stabilize the trailer if it begins to sway.
- Integrated camera systems: Features like 360-degree cameras or trailer backup guidance for easier maneuvering.
Do I really need a tow package?
If you only tow occasionally or lightweight items, you might only need a basic setup. Regular or heavy-duty towing typically requires a full tow package.
What is a tow technology package?
A tow technology package is a bundle of advanced tech features designed to make towing easier and safer, and it goes beyond a basic tow package by including things like a 360-degree camera system, trailer backup assist, and onboard scales. These packages enhance a vehicle's existing towing hardware with driver-assistance technologies that provide greater control, visibility, and convenience.
Key components of a tow technology package
- Advanced camera systems: A 360-degree camera system provides a comprehensive view around the vehicle and trailer, often with a split-view display. Some packages include a separate wireless trailer camera to check on the trailer.
- Trailer guidance and backup assist: Systems like Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Trailer Reverse Guidance help you steer your trailer by using a knob or the steering wheel to control the trailer's direction.
- Trailer-specific information: Onboard scales can show you the weight of your trailer to prevent overloading. Some systems offer trailer-specific fuel economy tracking and a trailer light check feature.
- Enhanced connectivity and control: Features like the Smart Trailer Tow Connector simplify electrical hookups, and an integrated trailer brake controller helps you control the trailer's brakes.
- Pro Trailer Hitch Assist: This feature automatically aligns the vehicle's hitch with the trailer's receiver to make backing up to the trailer much simpler.
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS): This system can be configured to include the length of the trailer, giving you a wider blind spot monitoring zone.
What is the difference between tow technology package and max tow package?
Trailer Tow Package – This includes the essentials: a hitch receiver, wiring harness, and usually a transmission oil cooler. Max Trailer Tow Package – Adds upgraded rear axle ratios, a heavy-duty radiator, integrated trailer brake controller, and sometimes enhanced suspension. It's built for serious haulers.
