The Ford Explorer has long been a go-to SUV for families, commuters, and weekend adventurers. But a question many potential buyers ask is: Can it tow? In today’s world of outdoor travel, boating, and trailer life, towing ability matters more than ever.
Whether you’re looking to haul a camper, boat, or work trailer, it’s important to know whether the Explorer is built to handle the load. With different engines, packages, and trim levels, the answer isn’t as simple as yes or no.
This post breaks down the Explorer’s towing power, features, and what you need to consider before hitting the road with a trailer in tow. If you’re serious about adventure or utility, keep reading to find out what this SUV can really do.
Contents
1. Engine Options and Towing Capacity
The Ford Explorer offers a variety of engine choices, and each has its own towing capacity. The 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine can tow up to 5,300 pounds with the Class III Tow Package installed.
Higher trims like the Platinum, ST, and King Ranch come with a 3.0L EcoBoost V6, which boosts the towing limit to 5,600 pounds. Even the Explorer Hybrid can tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is impressive for a hybrid SUV.
Without the tow package, towing capacity may drop to as little as 2,000 pounds, showing how crucial the tow setup is.
2. What the Explorer Can Tow
A properly equipped Explorer can tow a wide range of trailers and gear. This includes small boats, utility trailers, pop-up campers, and even some light travel trailers.
A travel trailer weighing around 4,500 pounds is within the range for an Explorer with the V6 engine and tow package. If you tow a small fishing boat or ATV trailer, the Explorer handles it with ease.
Always compare the trailer’s GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) with your SUV’s max towing capacity before you hitch up.
3. Towing Features That Enhance Safety
Towing with the Explorer is made easier by a suite of advanced safety technologies. These features are essential, especially for drivers new to towing heavy loads.
The Trailer Sway Control helps keep your load stable at higher speeds or during crosswinds. The Tow/Haul Mode adjusts the transmission for better control when hauling heavy cargo.
Features like blind spot monitoring with trailer coverage, rearview cameras, and hill descent control help make towing both safer and less stressful.
4. The Importance of the Tow Package
The Class III Trailer Tow Package is what transforms the Explorer into a capable tow vehicle. It includes a hitch receiver, 4- and 7-pin wiring harness, and sometimes a transmission oil cooler.
This package ensures your SUV is properly wired and cooled to handle the demands of towing. It also activates towing-related software calibrations that optimize performance.
If your Explorer doesn’t have this package, it’s best to consult with a dealer before attempting any serious towing work.
5. Best Practices for Safe Towing
Even if your Explorer can tow, you need to know how to tow safely. Start by distributing the trailer load evenly, and never exceed the tongue weight limit.
Use safety chains, working brake lights, and make sure your tires are rated for towing. Increased stopping distances mean you should drive slower and leave more space between vehicles.
Routine checks of your brake pads, engine fluids, and transmission are critical if you plan to tow often. Good towing is about precision and preparation.
Conclusion
So, can the Ford Explorer tow? The answer is a strong yes—as long as it’s equipped with the right engine and towing package. With capacities up to 5,600 pounds, it offers solid towing power without needing a full-size pickup.
Whether you’re hauling a jet ski, cargo trailer, or camper, the Explorer blends versatility and performance for all your towing needs. And thanks to its smart safety features, it makes the job safer and easier, even for beginners.
Before towing, always check your owner’s manual, confirm your tow ratings, and inspect your equipment. When you take the right steps, the Ford Explorer proves itself to be a capable and confident towing vehicle.
FAQs
1. How much can a Ford Explorer tow?
The maximum towing capacity is 5,600 pounds when properly equipped with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 and Class III Tow Package.
2. Does every Ford Explorer come with a tow hitch?
No. Only models with the Class III Tow Package include a hitch receiver. It must be added as an optional feature or installed later.
3. Can the Explorer tow a camper?
Yes, the Explorer can tow many small and mid-size campers, especially when equipped with the V6 engine and towing package.
4. What is the Class III Tow Package?
This package includes a hitch receiver, wiring harness, cooling system upgrades, and software tuning for better towing performance.
5. Can a hybrid Explorer tow safely?
Yes, the Explorer Hybrid has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, which is higher than many other hybrid SUVs on the market.
6. Can I add a tow package after buying?
Yes, but it’s best done by a Ford dealership to ensure all parts are compatible and properly calibrated for your specific model.
