2009 Ford Expedition towing capacity. Big Adventures Await.

2009 Ford Expedition towing capacity chart.

The full-size SUV Ford Expedition and Expedition EL are both built for active living, with plenty of cargo space (the longer wheelbase on EL gives you 129% more behind its 3rd-row seat) and roomy seating for up to eight. With its powerful engine, impressive remarkable towing capacity, and advanced features that allow it to tow up to 9,200 pounds. The Expedition is an ideal vehicle for families who love taking road trips, going on camping trips with a lot of gear, and needing for hauling cargo, boats, or RVs. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the available trim levels, and engine options, and also explore the towing capacity of the 2009 Ford Expedition in detail.

2009 Ford Expedition trims2009 Ford Expedition towing capacity
Ford Expedition XLT6,000 – 9,200 lbs.
Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer6,000 – 9,200 lbs.
Ford Expedition Limited6,000 – 9,200 lbs.
Ford Expedition King Ranch6,000 – 9,200 lbs.
The above-shown numbers are subject to change and are for reference purposes only. Do not exceed the trailer weight for your vehicle configuration listed in the chart above. Maximum weights shown are for properly equipped vehicles with the required equipment and a driver. The weight of additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo must be deducted from this weight.
When hauling a trailer, it is important to keep in mind the maximum recommended weight that your vehicle can handle. Going beyond this weight limit can cause significant harm to your vehicle, such as damage to the engine or transmission, as well as structural damage. It can also result in loss of control over the vehicle, which can lead to a dangerous rollover situation and potential injuries. Therefore, it is crucial to adhere to the weight limits specified on the certification label and not exceed the GVWR or GAWR.
2009 Ford Expedition towing capacity

2009 Ford Expedition Engine Specs

The 2009 Ford Expedition 5.4-liter V8 powerful engine is available in both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations. The four-wheel drive option can provide better traction and handle on rough terrain, but it can also decrease towing capacity slightly. The Flex Fuel option is designed to run on E85 ethanol fuel, which can be a more affordable and eco-friendly option. However, it’s worth noting that the Flex Fuel option has a slightly lower towing capacity than the regular V8 engine.

Engine5.4L 3-valve V8 FFV
Horsepower310 hp @ 5,100 rpm
Torque365 lb.-ft. @ 3,600 rpm

2009 Ford Expedition tow capacity

The standard tow rating for the Expedition is 6,000 pounds. For trailers over 6,000 pounds, the available Class IV Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package must be equipped properly to maximize up to 9,200 pounds of tow capacity. Also, the Expedition towing capacity varies depending on the drivetrain: front-wheel drive, Extended Length, 4×2 and 4×4 systems. Additionally, the Expedition features a sturdy frame and suspension system that helps to maintain stability and control while towing.

The towing capacity is determined by several factors, including the vehicle’s engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension. It is important to note that exceeding the towing capacity can be dangerous and can cause damage to both the tow vehicle and the trailer. In addition to its impressive towing capacity, the 2009 Ford Expedition also comes with a range of other features including:

  1. Four-Wheel Drive: This feature is especially useful for those who tow in slippery or off-road conditions and provides improved traction and stability when towing heavy loads.
  2. Reverse Sensing System: This feature can be especially useful when towing large trailers or boats and helps to alert drivers to obstacles that may be behind the vehicle when doing the reverse.
  3. Rearview Camera: This feature is especially useful when hitching up a trailer or backing up to a loading dock which provides a clear view of what is behind the vehicle when backing up.

2009 Ford Expedition towing capacity without tow package

The 2009 Ford Expedition Conventional tow rating across all the models and drivetrain lineup is 6,000 lbs. Check out the table below for more details on conventional tow ratings across the 2009 Expedition lineup.

Vehicle TypeDrive TypeAxle RatioGross Combined Weight Ratio (lbs.)Maximum Trailer Weight (lbs.)
Expedition4×23.3111,8006,000
Expedition4×43.7312,0006,000
Expedition EL4×23.3112,2006,000
Expedition EL4×43.7312,4006,000
NoteIf you do not know the axle ratio of your vehicle, check its Truck Safety Compliance Certification Label (located on the left front door lock facing or the door latch post pillar).
2009 Ford Expedition towing capacity

2009 Ford Expedition towing capacity with heavy-duty tow package

The Expedition needs to be equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package for a maximum towing capacity of 9,200 pounds. This package includes a Class IV trailer hitch, a seven-pin wiring harness, a trailer brake controller, and a rear load-leveling suspension system. Check out the table below to see how the lineup performs in max towing when equipped with the available trailer towing Package.

Vehicle TypeDrive TypeAxle RatioGross Combined Weight Ratio (lbs.)Maximum Trailer Weight (lbs.)
Expedition4×23.7315,0009,200
Expedition4×43.7315,0009,000
Expedition EL4×23.7315,0008,900
Expedition EL4×43.7315,0008,700
Requires available Class IV Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package. Maximum loaded trailer weight requires a weight-distributing hitchMax. towing varies based on cargo, vehicle configuration, accessories, and the number of passengers.
2009 Ford Expedition towing capacity

2009 Ford Expedition Trailer Towing Package

To achieve the maximum towing capacity of 9,200 pounds, the Expedition must be equipped with the optional Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package. This package includes a range of features that are designed to enhance the Expedition’s towing capabilities which are able to tow large trailers, boats, and other heavy loads. It may vary depending on model, trim, and powertrain. It’s important to understand the vehicle’s towing capacity, follow the manufacturer’s recommended towing procedures, and use proper towing equipment. Trailer Towing Package is recommended for all vehicles used for towing to help ensure easy, proper connection of trailer lights.

  • 7-Wire Harness & 4-/7-Pin Connector.
  • Auxiliary auto transmission oil cooler.
  • Tow/Haul mode.
  • Hitch Receiver.
  • Heavy-duty Radiator.
  • Electronic Brake Wiring Kit.
Also Read:
What is the difference between Class III and Class IV trailer hitch?
Hitch receiver types and sizes are important when you are towing trailers, campers, RVs, or other equipment with your vehicle. Explore the major difference between Class III and Class IV Trailer Hitch (With Comparison). Read more....

Frontal Area Considerations

Frontal Area is the total area in square feet that a moving vehicle and trailer expose to air resistance. Exceeding these limitations may significantly reduce the performance of your towing vehicle. The table below shows the limitations that must be considered in selecting a vehicle/trailer combination.

Base Vehicle Frontal Area (35 sq. ft.)Without Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package
60 sq. ft.With Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package Class IV

Hitch Receiver Weight Capacity

A hitch ball or ball mounting is not included with hitch receivers. To tow the trailer and its cargo load, you must have the correct hitch ball, ball mounting, and other necessary tools. 10% of the total loaded trailer weight should be made up of the tongue load. Verify that the payload of the towing vehicle (which has been decreased by the weight of the options) can support the weight of the trailer tongue load as well as the passengers and additional cargo. Vehicle weights cannot exceed the rear GAWR or GVWR when the tongue load weight, passenger weight, or cargo weight is added. The weight-carrying and weight-distribution characteristics of this hitch receiver are displayed in the chart below.

Ford Vehicle ModelWeight-Carrying Max.
Trailer Capacity (lbs.)
Max. Tongue
Load (lbs.)
Expedition6,000
9,200
600
920
Expedition EL6,000
8,900
600
890
2009 Ford Expedition towing capacity

2009 Ford Expedition trims

It is available in four different trim levels: 4×2 or 4×4 in the XLT, Eddie Bauer, Limited, and King Ranch versions. With unique finishes specially selected to reflect the lifestyle and desires are sophisticated. Based on the weight of the chosen trim series and option content, the towing capacity of the Expedition with the finest options may be decreased. Get more information about the 2009 Ford Expedition’s specs and features below.

2009 Ford Expedition XLT towing capacity

Includes standard features, plus the highlighted features are 17″ aluminum wheels, Body-color lower bodyside moldings, wheel-lip moldings & bumpers, Chrome door handles, Chrome grille, Overhead console, AM/FM stereo & single-CD player with MP3 capability, 1st-row captain’s chairs with 6-way power driver seat with manual lumbar, and 3rd-row 60/40 split fold-flat-to-floor bench seat (Expedition EL only). The towing capacity of the Ford Expedition XLT ranges from 6,000 to 9,200 pounds, depending on engine configuration and axle ratio.

2009 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer towing capacity

The highlighted features are 17″/18″(EL) machined aluminum wheels, Chrome exhaust tip, Pueblo Gold lower bodyside moldings, wheel-lip moldings, bumpers & running boards, Reverse Sensing System, Leather-trimmed 1st & 2nd-row seats, 10-way power driver seat with memory feature, dual-zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control, Power-adjustable pedals with memory, Ford SYNC, Premium Sound System with 6-disc in-dash CD changer, 7 speakers (including a subwoofer) with 340 watts, power heated side view mirrors with memory, security approach lamps and integrated turn signals. The towing capacity of the Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer ranges from 6,000 to 9,200 pounds, depending on engine configuration and axle ratio.

2009 Ford Expedition Limited towing capacity

The highlighted features are 18″ chrome-clad aluminum wheels, Headlamps with blackout treatment, Rain-sensing windshield wipers, Chrome roof side rails with Black crossbars, Body-color running boards, Power rear quarter windows, a Power Liftgate, Rear View Camera, 1st-row, 10-way power, heated & cooled leather-trimmed bucket seats, including power lumbar & recline with driver memory, Heated 2nd-row seats, and Universal Garage Door Opener. The Ford Expedition Limited has a towing capacity ranging from 6,000 to 9,200 pounds depending on engine configuration and axle ratio.

2009 Ford Expedition King Ranch towing capacity

The highlighted features are 18″ machined aluminum wheels with the King Ranch logo on center caps, Chaparral leather trim on all 3 rows of seating, Woodgrain trim on the center console, switch panels & instrument panel, King Ranch logo on the front fender & liftgate, power-adjustable/-folding, heated side view mirrors with auto-dimming driver’s side, blind spot mirrors, security approach lamps, integrated turn signal indicators, and memory. The Ford Expedition King Ranch has a towing capacity ranging from 6,000 to 8,900 pounds depending on engine configuration and axle ratio.

Explore more:
2023 Ford Expedition towing capacity.
2021 Ford Expedition towing capacity.
2020 Ford Expedition towing capacity.
2019 Ford Expedition towing capacity.
2018 Ford Expedition towing capacity.
2017 Ford Expedition towing capacity.
2016 Ford Expedition towing capacity.
2015 Ford Expedition towing capacity.
2014 Ford Expedition towing capacity.
2013 Ford Expedition towing capacity.
2012 Ford Expedition towing capacity. 
2011 Ford Expedition towing capacity.
2010 Ford Expedition towing capacity.

Factors that Affect Towing Capacity

The towing capacity is an impressive feat of engineering, but it’s important to remember that towing heavy loads can be dangerous if you’re not prepared. By understanding the factors that affect towing capacity and taking the necessary precautions, you can safely tow your 2009 Ford Expedition before you hit the road with a heavy load.

  • Trailer Type: If you’re towing a boat or a flatbed trailer, for example, you may be able to tow more weight than if you’re towing a fully-enclosed trailer.
  • Trailer Hitch: It’s important to choose a hitch that is rated for the weight you’re towing, and to make sure it’s installed properly.
  • Load Distribution: Proper load distribution is also important when towing heavy loads you need to make sure the weight is evenly distributed throughout the trailer, and avoid overloading.
  • Proper Maintenance: Keeping your SUV well-maintained is essential if you want to tow heavy loads safely. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, and take care of any necessary repairs promptly.
  • Driving: When towing heavy loads, it’s important to take them slow and steady. Avoid sudden movements or rapid acceleration, and be prepared to stop slowly and gradually.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this SUV is an excellent option for families and meets all of your towing demands. If anyone looking for a powerful and dependable towing vehicle that can manage heavy loads and tow trailers the 2009 Ford Expedition is no doubt should strongly consider. It also has an abundance of other features that make it simple and enjoyable, like a roomy interior. The SUV offers what you need, whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip with a big trailer or need to move a boat.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much can a 2009 Ford Expedition tow?

The towing capacity of the 2009 Ford Expedition varies depending on the model and drivetrain. This SUV is capable of towing up to 9,200 pounds when properly equipped. While the four-wheel drive model can tow up to 9,000 pounds. The Expedition EL, which has an extended wheelbase, has a maximum towing capacity of 8,900 pounds for the rear-wheel drive model and 8,700 pounds for the four-wheel drive model. That’s a lot of weight, and it makes the best option for those who need to tow boats, trailers, or other heavy loads. The powerful engine 5.4-liter V8 generates 310 hp and 365 lb-ft of torque mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth and efficient power delivery.

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Aaron Bennett is an accomplished author and a true aficionado when it comes to pickup trucks. With an unwavering passion for all things automotive, Aaron has dedicated his life to exploring the world of pickups and sharing his expertise with others. As the proud owner of several powerful machines, he has spent countless hours behind the wheel, navigating rugged terrains and conquering highways with unrivaled enthusiasm.

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