The Ultimate Comprehensive Guide on Most Ford Explorer SUV Drivers queries, Can a Ford Explorer tow 5000 lbs? the ability to haul boats to Trailers and also evaluate the Ford Explorer’s power to push the Limits of the towing Capacity.
Towing capacity is an important characteristic to consider when buying an SUV, mainly for those who need to haul boats, trailers, or other heavy supplies. The Ford Explorer is known for its versatility and capability best choice among families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a reliable and spacious vehicle. One of the most common questions asked about the Ford Explorer is whether it can tow 5,000 lbs. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the Ford Explorer’s towing capacity models by the year and what it takes to tow 5,000 lbs with this SUV.
Table of Contents
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.
What are the towing capacities of a Ford Explorer?
The various factors that determine towing capacities, such as engine and transmission options are best suited for safe and successful towing. The Explorer has been in production from 1991 through the present in Ford’s lineup as an SUV and remains popular today. We’ve listed out the maximum tow capacity by year below for reference. Note that for each model year, there are many variables that affect the total towing capacity of each vehicle year, so we recommend checking your specific Explorer model year and trim level in the links below for an in-depth guide and to get the most accurate information for that year.
| Ford Explorer models by year | Ford Explorer towing capacity (lbs.) |
| 2023 Ford Explorer | 5,600 |
| 2022 Ford Explorer | 5,600 |
| 2021 Ford Explorer | 5,600 |
| 2020 Ford Explorer | 5,600 |
| 2019 Ford Explorer | 5,000 |
| 2018 Ford Explorer | 5,000 |
| 2017 Ford Explorer | 5,000 |
| 2016 Ford Explorer | 5,000 |
| 2015 Ford Explorer | 5,000 |
| 2014 Ford Explorer | 5,000 |
| 2013 Ford Explorer | 5,000 |
| 2012 Ford Explorer | 5,000 |
| 2011 Ford Explorer | 5,000 |
| 2010 Ford Explorer | 7,285 |
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 7,285 |
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 7,310 |
| 2007 Ford Explorer | 7,290 |
| 2006 Ford Explorer | 7,300 |
| 2005 Ford Explorer | 7,140 |
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 7,125 |
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 7,180 |
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 7,300 |
| 2001 Ford Explorer | 6,820 |
| 2000 Ford Explorer | 6,820 |
Note: Specific states require electric trailer brakes for trailers over a specified weight. Be certain to review state regulations for this determined weight. The maximum trailer weights listed could be limited to this specified weight, as the vehicle’s electrical system may not include the wiring connector needed to activate electric trailer brakes.
Do Ford Explorers come with a towing package?
Ford Explorer has options for trailer towing packages to increase your SUV’s towing capacity. When properly equipped with a Class II/III/IV Trailer Tow Package option on some trims of the models allows for heavier hauls and expands the options of what you can take with your vehicle. Ford Explorer does not offer factory-installed towing equipment for this application; only available as a dealer accessory.
To check if your car can tow, look under the back bumper for a trailer hitch or ball. You can also check your car’s paperwork or take it to a dealer and provide your car’s identification number VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) to see if it has any towing features installed. Towing a trailer places an extra load on your vehicle’s engine, transmission, axle, brakes, tires, and suspension. Check these parts periodically during, and after, any towing function.
What Explorer can tow 5000 lbs?
Well, the Ford Explorer is a powerful SUV able to offer exceptional performance including towing of more than 5,000 lbs. capacity depending upon the model year when properly equipped. Basic travel trailers can be towed by mid-sized SUVs, the weight of trailers ranges from 1,200 lbs. to over 10,000 lbs. depending on the type. However, as you can know from the above chart the maximum towing capacity of the explorer model by year is between 5,000 lbs. to 7,000 lbs. It can easily tow Jet skis, Utility Trailers, Pop-Up Camper, Snowmobiles, ATVs, Fishing boats, and Motorcycles.
Which Ford Explorer has the best towing capacity?
The first four-door SUV produced by Ford three decades of production and six generations later, it’s still one of the most successful models Ford has ever produced. Currently, in its sixth generation, the Explorer has been offered in multiple chassis and powertrain layouts. The first two generations were directly derived from the Ford Ranger, switching to a model-specific chassis for the third and fourth generations. The fifth generation was repackaged as a CUV, adopting a variant of the Ford Taurus chassis architecture developed for SUVs.
| Ford Explorer generations | Ford Explorer generations by the year |
| Ford Explorer First-generation | 1991 – 1994 |
| Ford Explorer Second-generation | 1995 – 2003 |
| Ford Explorer Third-generation | 2003 – 2005 |
| Ford Explorer Fourth-generation | 2006 – 2010 |
| Ford Explorer Fifth-generation | 2011 – 2019 |
| Ford Explorer Sixth-generation | 2020 – Present |
Is the Ford Explorer a good tow vehicle?
With its exceptional performance and excellent handling, the Ford Explorer this powerful SUV that can easily handle all towing activities is the perfect vehicle for driving in all road conditions. Well, it has been proved that a Ford Explorer can clearly tow up to 5000 lbs, and the SUV can be a reliable and capable vehicle for anyone looking to haul heavy loads.
When equipped with the proper engine and towing package, the towing capacity increases significantly whereas to tow heavy loads the Class III/IV Trailer Tow Package must be fitted. Lastly, towing at maximum capacity can put a lot of pressure on the vehicle so it’s necessary to have the suited kit and follow all safety guidelines for a successful towing experience.
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.