Ford Explorer Towing Capacity by Year (2017–2026)

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1. 1

   Class III receiver hitchEssential

   2026 Ford Explorer is rated to 5,000 lb, which falls in Class III (up to 8,000 lb).

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2. 2

   Ball mountEssential

   Ball mount drop/rise to keep the trailer level.

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3. 3

   7-pin wiring harnessEssential

   A 7-pin connector carries the brake-controller output and 12V charge line.

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4. 4

   Trailer brake controllerHeavier trailers

   Trailers over about 1,500 lb need their own brakes in most US states; thresholds vary by state.

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5. 5

   Weight-distribution hitchHeavier trailers

   Recommended when the trailer exceeds the manufacturer's threshold for this configuration or half the vehicle's curb weight.

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6. 6

   Tow mirrorsWide trailers

   Required in many states when the trailer is wider than the tow vehicle.

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Links open a search filtered to this vehicle. Confirm fit with the seller before buying; the manufacturer's rating and your door-jamb label still set the limit.

Frequently asked

How much can a 2026 Ford Explorer tow?

The 2026 Ford Explorer tows up to 5,000 lb when equipped as 2.3L EcoBoost, Standard, 2WD, 3.58 axle (2026 Ford RV & Trailer Towing Guide, page 39, retrieved 17 Sep 2026).

How much can a 2026 Ford Explorer with the 2.3L EcoBoost tow?

Up to 5,000 lb, as 2.3L EcoBoost, Standard, 2WD, 3.58 axle. Every one of the 2 configurations with this engine is rated the same.

How much can a 2026 Ford Explorer with the 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 tow?

Up to 5,000 lb, as 2.3L EcoBoost I-4, 4WD, 3.58 axle. Every listed configuration with this engine is rated the same.

How much can a 2026 Ford Explorer with the 3.0L EcoBoost tow?

Up to 5,000 lb, as 3.0L EcoBoost, Standard, 4WD, 3.31 axle. Every one of the 3 configurations with this engine is rated the same.

Can a 2026 Ford Explorer tow 5,000 lb?

Yes. Every one of the 9 configurations listed for 2026 is rated at or above 5,000 lb.

Which Explorer configuration tows the most?

For 2026, the highest manufacturer rating is 5,000 lb for the 2.3L EcoBoost, Standard, 2WD, 3.58 axle. Other engines, axle ratios and cab/drive combinations are rated lower; see the per-year table.

What is the GCWR of a 2026 Ford Explorer?

Between 10,000 lb and 10,800 lb, depending on the configuration, across the 9 configurations listed for 2026 that state one. Gross combined weight rating is the most the truck and loaded trailer may weigh together. The figure for your own vehicle is on the certification label inside the driver's door jamb, and the table above lists it per configuration.

What hitch class does the Explorer need?

A 5,000 lb rating falls in Class III. Lower-rated configurations may need a lower class; the class never raises the vehicle's own rating.

Has the Explorer towing capacity changed since 2022?

The highest rated configuration was 5,600 lb in 2022 and 5,000 lb in 2026. Each year's full table is linked above.

Do these ratings apply to my truck?

Only if your vehicle matches the configuration in the row, including the axle ratio and tow package. Manufacturer ratings assume a properly equipped vehicle; the certification label on the driver's door jamb and the owner's manual override this site.