2026 Ford Explorer towing capacity
Maximum loaded trailer weight5,000 lbs2.3L EcoBoost I4, RWD, 3.58 axle · 2.3L EcoBoost I4, 4WD, 3.58 axle · 2.3L EcoBoost I4, 4WD, 3.58 axle · 3.0L EcoBoost V6, 4WD, 3.31 axle · 3.0L EcoBoost V6, 4WD, 3.58 axle · 3.0L EcoBoost V6, RWD, 3.58 axle · 3.0L EcoBoost V6, 4WD, 3.58 axle · 3.3L Ti-VCT V6, 4WD, 3.73 axle · 3.3L HEV V6, 4WD, 3.73 axle · when properly equipped
Towing capacity by configuration
| Engine | Axle | Configuration | GCWR | Max trailer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.3L EcoBoost I4 | 3.58 | RWD | 10,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs 2,268 kg |
| 2.3L EcoBoost I4 | 3.58 | 4WD | 10,100 lbs | 5,000 lbs 2,268 kg |
| 2.3L EcoBoost I4 | 3.582 | 4WD | 10,100 lbs | 5,000 lbs 2,268 kg |
| 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 3.313 | 4WD | 10,200 lbs | 5,000 lbs 2,268 kg |
| 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 3.582 | 4WD | 10,800 lbs | 5,000 lbs 2,268 kg |
| 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 3.584 | RWD | 10,800 lbs | 5,000 lbs 2,268 kg |
| 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 3.584 | 4WD | 10,800 lbs | 5,000 lbs 2,268 kg |
| 3.3L Ti-VCT V6 | 3.733 | 4WD | 10,100 lbs | 5,000 lbs 2,268 kg |
| 3.3L HEV V6 | 3.733 | 4WD | 10,500 lbs | 5,000 lbs 2,268 kg |
Transmission: Automatic. GCWR is the most the loaded vehicle and loaded trailer may weigh together. Small numbers are Ford's footnotes, listed below. Where a cell shows two weights, the footnotes say which applies.
Hitch and bumper limits
| Hitch | Applies to | Max trailer | Max tongue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hitch receiver | Explorer Gas or Hybrid | 5,000 lbs1 | 500 lbs |
The hitch rating can be higher than what the vehicle is allowed to tow. Use the lower of the two.
What you need to tow the maximum
- The maximum trailer frontal area that must be considered for a Explorer/trailer combination is 40 sq. ft. with Trailer Tow Package.
- Certain states require electric trailer brakes for trailers over a specified weight. Be sure to check state regulations for this specified weight. WARNING: Do not tow a trailer fitted with electric trailer brakes unless your vehicle is fitted with a compatible aftermarket electronic trailer brake controller. Failure to follow this instruction could result in the loss of control of your vehicle, personal injury or death. For additional information and assistance, we recommend that you contact an authorized dealer.
- Combined weight of vehicle and trailer cannot exceed listed GCWR.
- Do not exceed the Maximum Loaded Trailer Weight listed.
- Explorer calculated with SAE J2807® method.
Check your own tow
The maximum assumes a lightly loaded vehicle. Passengers, cargo and tongue weight all come out of your payload. Run your trailer through the calculator with this vehicle's limits filled in:
Can I tow it? with 2026 Ford Explorer limits →Add your payload from the door-jamb label.
Ford's footnotes
- 1 Maximum towing capabilities are for properly equipped vehicles with required equipment and a 150-lb. driver and passenger and vary based on cargo, vehicle configuration, accessories, option content and number of passengers. For additional information, see your Ford Dealer.
- 2 Tremor® model only.
- 3 Police Interceptor Utility only.
- 4 ST model only.