What is the towing capacity of the Ford Expedition 3.5 EcoBoost?

The Expedition’s 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 can tow up to 9,300 pounds when properly equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package. This ceiling reflects Ford’s official specification for current models, but the actual figure you’ll see on the door sticker or window sticker depends on several options and drivetrain choices.

Beyond the headline number, towing capacity is specific to model year, trim level, drivetrain (2WD vs. 4WD), axle ratio, and whether you’ve added equipment such as a dedicated trailer brake controller and the heavy-duty tow package. This article breaks down the official max and the factors that influence real-world tow ratings.

Official maximum tow rating and how it’s defined

Ford publishes a maximum towing capacity of 9,300 pounds for the Expedition with the 3.5 EcoBoost when it is equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package and used with the appropriate hitch, braking, and cooling options. This figure is commonly cited for model years around 2020 through the present, but it is contingent on having the specific towing package installed and meeting all other equipment requirements.

To help readers understand what to expect, here are the typical figures you’ll encounter depending on configuration. The numbers reflect the maximum rating Ford lists under standard or optional equipment, and they assume compliant trailers and proper hitching.

• With the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package installed: up to 9,300 pounds (the official max under the right conditions).


• Without the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package: towing capacity is lower, generally falling in a lower range that still depends on drivetrain and axle configuration—often quoted between roughly 7,000 and 9,000 pounds in various trim and setup scenarios.


• Exact rating for a given vehicle should be verified on the window sticker or in Ford’s official spec sheets for that model year, as options and options packages can shift the rating.

In short, 9,300 pounds represents the ceiling for the Expedition with a 3.5 EcoBoost when the right towing hardware is present; your actual rating will hinge on how the vehicle is equipped and configured.

Key factors that influence the towing figure

To help buyers and users understand what drives the number, consider the main variables that Ford accounts for when setting the tow rating on the Expedition:

• Drivetrain configuration (2WD vs. 4WD) and the corresponding axle ratio offered on your build.


• Availability and fitment of the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, which includes upgraded cooling, wiring, and hitch provisions.


• Trailer braking requirements and the presence of a factory-integrated brake controller.


• Vehicle payload capacity and gross combined weight rating (GCWR), which constrain how much you can safely tow when you also count passengers and cargo.


• Hitch type, wiring, and calibration for trailer braking and lighting, all of which must align with the rated tow figure.

Bottom line: the maximum 9,300-pound rating is conditional on the right hardware and setup; deviations in equipment or load will typically reduce the usable tow figure.

Practical notes for buyers and renters

When planning to tow with a Ford Expedition equipped with the 3.5 EcoBoost, check the exact specification for your vehicle year and trim. If you plan to tow near the upper limit, ensure you have the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, a compatible hitch, trailer brakes (and a brake controller if required), and appropriate payload capacity. Always consult the owner’s manual and Ford’s official spec sheets for the precise rating tied to your VIN.

Summary

The Ford Expedition’s 3.5 EcoBoost engine is capable of towing up to 9,300 pounds when paired with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package and the right equipment. Real-world towing capacity depends on the model year, drivetrain, axle ratio, and installed options. For anyone considering heavy towing, the key takeaway is that the ceiling is 9,300 pounds, but the exact rating for your vehicle should be confirmed from official Ford documentation or your vehicle’s window sticker.

Summary of takeaways

- Maximum tow: up to 9,300 pounds with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package on recent model years.

- Without the HD Tow Package, expect a lower rating, varying by configuration and equipment.

- Always verify the exact figure for your vehicle’s VIN and year, and consult the owner’s manual for towing best practices and safety guidelines.

How much can a 3.5 l EcoBoost V6 Expedition tow?

The towing capacity for a Ford Expedition with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine ranges from around 6,000 lbs to a maximum of 9,300 lbs, depending on the specific configuration and required equipment. To achieve the highest capacity, the vehicle must be equipped with the available Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package and be a 4x2 model. The Expedition MAX version has a slightly lower maximum capacity of 9,000 lbs with the same package. 
This video discusses the towing capacity of the Ford Expedition, including how it varies between four-wheel drive and two-wheel drive models: 57sAsk Jorge Lopez at Tomball FordYouTube · Oct 7, 2025
Key factors affecting towing capacity

• Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package: This package is essential for reaching the maximum towing capacity and includes features like an upgraded rear axle ratio, heavy-duty engine oil coolers, and towing technology such as Pro Trailer Backup Assist. 
• Configuration: A standard wheelbase Expedition can tow more than an Expedition MAX, with the standard 4x2 model achieving the highest capacity. 
• Engine Power: While the 3.5L EcoBoost engine's power output varies across different trims, all versions can reach the maximum tow rating when properly equipped. Higher output engines provide more grunt for towing, but do not necessarily increase the maximum weight limit. 
• Drivetrain: A 4x2 model has a higher towing capacity than a 4x4 model. 

Towing capacity by configuration

• Expedition (standard wheelbase):
  • With Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package: Up to 9,300 lbs (4x2) or 9,200 lbs (4x4).
  • Without Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package: Around 6,000 lbs.
• Expedition MAX (long wheelbase):
  • With Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package: Up to 9,000 lbs for both 4x2 and 4x4.
  • Without Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package: Around 6,300 lbs. 

What Ford Expedition can tow 9000 lbs?

The Ford Expedition MAX 4×2 and 4×4 models with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package deliver a 9,000-lb tow rating. The 2023 Ford Expedition XL STX, XLT, XLT MAX 4×4, Timberline, Limited, Limited MAX 4×4, STX, King Ranch MAX 4×4, Platinum and Platinum MAX 4×4 models all have a tow rating of 6,000 lbs.

What year of Ford Expedition to stay away from?

Years to avoid for the Ford Expedition include 2003-2006 and 2011, which are known for engine, electrical, and transmission issues. Some newer models, particularly around 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021, are also cited for various problems like transmission trouble, issues with running boards, and other mechanical failures. It is best to choose a model year with better reliability ratings, such as 2015 or 2020, or focus on the fourth generation (2018-2024) or newer, which generally have better ratings. 
Older generations (second and third)

• 2003–2006: These models are particularly notorious for having multiple complaints, including engine and drivetrain problems, brake failure, and electrical issues. 
• 2011: This year is frequently mentioned for being problematic, though the specific issues are not as detailed as for the earlier years. 

Newer generations (fourth) 

• 2017–2019: Issues include rough shifting transmissions, problems with automatic running boards, and other powertrain concerns. 
• 2018–2020: Some models are noted for poor fuel economy, especially when towing, in addition to transmission issues. 
• 2020–2021: At least one owner reported needing major repairs, including a new transmission and catalytic converters, on a 2021 model. 
• 2022–2024: These model years have recalls related to brake lines potentially becoming damaged by other components, which can lead to a brake fluid leak and reduced braking function. 

What to look for

• 2015: This model year is often recommended as a more reliable option within the third generation. 
• 2020: This year is highlighted as one of the more dependable models. 
• 2018–2024: Fourth-generation models generally have higher reliability ratings, though some specific years within this range still had reported issues. 

What is the 80% towing rule?

Many RVers are strict followers of the 80% or 80/20 rule of towing, and it's a great rule to live by if you want to ensure you don't overload your tow vehicle. The 80% towing rule is less of a “rule” and more of an idea: don't pull a trailer with a GVWR that is more than 80% of your vehicle's maximum towing capacity.