Ford Explorer Towing Capacity (by Engine & Year)
TL;DR
Max towing varies a lot by generation and engine - from about 5,000 lb on V6 models up to 5,600 lb on the 2020-2024 3.0L EcoBoost, and properly-equipped figures always require the factory tow package.
Towing capacity depends on generation and engine
Ford has offered several very different Explorer platforms since the 1990s, and the tow rating changes with the engine, drivetrain and whether the Trailer Tow Package is fitted. There is no single number that applies to every Explorer ever built, so always match the figure to your exact model year and engine.
Verified maximum towing figures by generation
| Generation / years | Engine and configuration | Max towing (lb / kg) |
|---|---|---|
| 4th gen (2002-2010) | 4.6L V8, Class III/IV Tow Package | 7,130-7,300 lb (3,234-3,311 kg) - sources vary slightly on the exact figure |
| 5th gen (2011-2019) | 3.5L Ti-VCT V6, Class III/IV Tow Package | up to 5,000 lb (2,268 kg) |
| 6th gen (2020-2024) | 3.3L Hybrid V6 | up to 5,000 lb (2,268 kg) |
| 6th gen (2020-2024) | 2.3L EcoBoost I4, Class III/IV Tow Package | up to 5,300 lb (2,404 kg) |
| 6th gen (2020-2024) | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (365 hp or 400 hp ST/Platinum tune), Class IV Tow Package | up to 5,600 lb (2,540 kg) - highest figure of any modern Explorer |
| 7th gen (2025-2026 redesign) | 2.3L EcoBoost I4 or 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | up to 5,000 lb (2,268 kg) - Ford lowered the ceiling on the redesigned platform |
Tongue weight
Published dealer data for 2020-2026 Explorers lists maximum tongue weight at roughly 10% of the trailer's weight - about 500 lb on 5,000 lb-rated configurations and up to 560 lb on the 5,600 lb-rated 3.0L EcoBoost. This single-source figure is a reasonable planning guideline, but it is not independently confirmed across multiple manufacturer documents, so treat it as approximate rather than exact.
Where to find your exact number
- The driver's door jamb placard lists your specific vehicle's GVWR, GAWR and payload figures.
- The owner's manual towing section has the full weight-rating tables matched to your engine and options.
- Ford's official model-year towing guide PDF (published annually on ford.com) breaks down every trim and package combination.
- Your local Ford dealer can pull the build sheet for your VIN to confirm the exact tow package installed.
Why properly equipped matters
Every maximum figure above assumes the factory Trailer Tow Package (which adds a heavier-duty radiator, upgraded alternator, wiring harness and hitch receiver) plus a properly loaded vehicle. An Explorer without that package, or one loaded with passengers and cargo near its payload limit, will have a lower effective safe towing number than the advertised maximum.
Summary
| Highest-ever max towing | 7,130-7,300 lb (2002-2010, 4.6L V8) |
|---|---|
| Modern-generation max towing | 5,600 lb (2020-2024, 3.0L EcoBoost V6) |
| Typical V6/I4 towing (most years) | 5,000 lb |
| 2025-2026 redesign max towing | 5,000 lb (both engines) |
| Approx. max tongue weight (2020-2026) | 500-560 lb (~10% of trailer weight) |
| Required equipment for max rating | Factory Class III/IV Trailer Tow Package |
| Where to confirm your exact figure | Driver's door placard and owner's manual |
Full diagnostics
For the complete step-by-step diagnostic and repair guide, see Ford Explorer: Common Problems, Fault Codes & Repairs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of any Ford Explorer?
The highest documented figure is 7,130-7,300 lb, from the 2002-2010 fourth-generation Explorer with the 4.6L V8 and Class III/IV Trailer Tow Package. Among modern Explorers, the 2020-2024 3.0L EcoBoost V6 tops out at 5,600 lb.
Why did towing capacity drop on the 2025 Explorer redesign?
Ford's platform update for the 2025-2026 model year brought the ceiling for both the 2.3L EcoBoost I4 and 3.0L EcoBoost V6 down to 5,000 lb, compared with up to 5,600 lb on the outgoing 2020-2024 3.0L EcoBoost. The exact engineering reason (chassis, cooling or axle changes) has not been detailed by Ford in public materials reviewed here.
Does the Ford Explorer ST tow more than the regular EcoBoost V6?
No. The ST's 400 hp tune of the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 shares the same 5,600 lb maximum towing rating as the standard 365 hp version of that engine on 2020-2024 models, since the tow rating is governed by chassis and cooling limits rather than horsepower alone.
How do I find the exact towing capacity of my own Explorer?
Check the placard on the driver's door jamb for GVWR and payload figures, read the towing section of your owner's manual for the table matched to your engine and options, or consult Ford's official towing guide PDF for your specific model year - these are the only sources that reflect your car's exact configuration.