2020 Ford Explorer Tow Capacity – Maximize Your Suv’S Hauling
The 2020 Ford Explorer offers a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,600 pounds when properly equipped with the 3.0L EcoBoost engine and the Class III Trailer Tow Package. Depending on your specific trim and engine choice, this capacity ranges from 5,000 to 5,600 pounds, making it a leader in the midsize SUV segment for hauling boats, campers, and utility trailers.
You bought a Ford Explorer because you need a vehicle that works as hard as you play. Whether you are hauling a pair of jet skis to the lake or pulling a small travel trailer for a weekend in the woods, knowing your limits is the first step toward a successful trip.
Understanding the 2020 ford explorer tow capacity is about more than just reading a number in a manual; it is about knowing how your engine, drivetrain, and gear work together. If you push your rig too hard without the right setup, you risk damaging your transmission or compromising your safety on the road.
In this guide, we will break down the towing specs for every 2020 Explorer configuration, explain the essential hardware you need, and provide pro-level maintenance tips. By the end of this article, you will have the confidence to hitch up and head out with total peace of mind.
Understanding the 2020 ford explorer tow capacity by Engine Type
The 2020 model year marked a significant shift for the Explorer, moving to a rear-wheel-drive platform that naturally lends itself to better towing dynamics. Ford offered three distinct powerplants this year, each providing a different level of capability for the 2020 ford explorer tow capacity.
The 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 Engine
Found in the Base, XLT, and Limited trims, this turbocharged four-cylinder is a workhorse that punches well above its weight class. When equipped with the factory tow package, it offers a respectable 5,300-pound maximum capacity. Without the package, however, you are limited to a much lower 3,000-pound ceiling.
This engine is ideal for DIYers who haul utility trailers filled with landscaping supplies or small adventure trailers. It provides a great balance of fuel efficiency and torque, which is the rotational force needed to get a heavy load moving from a dead stop.
The 3.0L EcoBoost V6 Engine
If you own the ST or Platinum trim, you have the powerhouse of the lineup. This twin-turbocharged V6 pushes the 2020 ford explorer tow capacity to its peak of 5,600 pounds. This extra 300 pounds of headroom might seem small, but it makes a massive difference when you are factoring in the weight of gear and fluids in your trailer.
The ST trim, in particular, benefits from a sport-tuned suspension that helps manage the weight of a trailer with less “squat” at the rear axle. For those pulling 20-foot fiberglass boats or larger pop-up campers, this is the engine configuration you want under the hood.
The 3.3L Hybrid V6 Engine
Ford introduced a hybrid option for the 2020 Limited trim, aimed at those who want better city mileage without sacrificing utility. The hybrid variant is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds. While it is the lowest maximum rating in the lineup, it still outperforms many competitors in the hybrid SUV space.
The electric motor provides instant torque, which helps with initial acceleration. However, keep an eye on your payload, as the heavy battery packs in the hybrid model can reduce the amount of weight you can carry inside the cabin while towing.
The Essential Class III Trailer Tow Package
You cannot reach the maximum 2020 ford explorer tow capacity simply by bolting on an aftermarket hitch. Ford’s factory-installed Class III Trailer Tow Package includes critical cooling components that protect your engine and transmission from the extreme heat generated by hauling heavy loads.
This package typically includes a frame-mounted hitch receiver, a 4-pin and 7-pin wiring harness, and an upgraded engine oil cooler. It also integrates software features like Trailer Sway Control, which uses the vehicle’s brakes to counteract the dangerous “fishtailing” effect caused by wind or sudden maneuvers.
If your Explorer did not come with this package from the factory, your towing limit is restricted to 3,000 pounds regardless of your engine. Attempting to tow 5,000+ pounds without the proper cooling upgrades can lead to catastrophic transmission failure and will likely void your powertrain warranty.
Payload vs. Towing: Calculating Your Real-World Limits
One of the most common mistakes weekend warriors make is ignoring the relationship between towing capacity and payload. Payload is the weight of everything inside the vehicle, including passengers, cargo, and the tongue weight of the trailer. Tongue weight is the downward force the trailer coupler exerts on the hitch ball.
To find your real-world limit, you must look at the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). This is the maximum allowable weight of the fully loaded Explorer and the fully loaded trailer combined. If you fill every seat in your Explorer with adult passengers and pack the trunk with coolers, you may need to reduce the weight of your trailer to stay within safe limits.
A good rule of thumb is to aim for a tongue weight that is 10% to 15% of the total trailer weight. If your trailer weighs 5,000 pounds, your hitch should be supporting 500 to 750 pounds. Use a tongue weight scale or a commercial truck scale to verify this, as improper weight distribution is a leading cause of highway accidents.
Safe Towing Gear and Hardware for the Explorer
To maximize the 2020 ford explorer tow capacity safely, you need the right tools for the job. Beyond the hitch, several pieces of equipment are mandatory for anyone serious about hauling. Do not cut corners here; your safety and the safety of others on the road depend on high-quality hardware.
- Weight Distribution Hitch: For trailers over 3,500 pounds, a weight distribution hitch helps level the vehicle and trailer, moving weight off the rear axle and onto the front wheels for better steering control.
- Brake Controller: The 2020 Explorer is pre-wired for a brake controller. If your trailer has electric brakes, you must install a controller to synchronize the trailer’s braking with the SUV’s pedal.
- Extended Side Mirrors: The Explorer has decent mirrors, but they often aren’t wide enough to see down the side of an 8-foot-wide camper. Clip-on or strap-on towing mirrors are a cheap and effective visibility upgrade.
- Hitch Locking Pin: Protect your investment by using a locking pin to secure your ball mount to the receiver. This prevents theft when you are parked at a trailhead or boat ramp.
Always ensure your hitch ball matches the size of your trailer coupler. Most campers and large trailers use a 2-inch or 2 5/16-inch ball. Using the wrong size can result in the trailer detaching at highway speeds, which is a nightmare scenario for any driver.
Step-by-Step Pre-Tow Safety Inspection
Before you pull out of the driveway, you should perform a “walk-around” inspection. Even experienced towers can forget a simple step that leads to a breakdown. Follow this checklist every single time you hitch up your 2020 Explorer.
- Check Tire Pressure: Ensure both the Explorer and the trailer tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI. Heat is the enemy of tires, and under-inflation causes excessive heat buildup.
- Verify Lights: Have a partner stand behind the trailer while you test the turn signals, brake lights, and running lights. Clean the electrical connectors with a contact cleaner if the lights flicker.
- Cross the Safety Chains: Attach your safety chains in an “X” pattern under the trailer tongue. This creates a cradle that will catch the tongue if the hitch ever fails, preventing it from digging into the pavement.
- Check the Coupler Latch: Ensure the coupler is fully seated on the ball and the locking lever is pinned shut. Give the trailer tongue a firm upward tug to make sure it is locked in place.
- Test the Breakaway Cable: This thin cable triggers the trailer’s brakes if it becomes detached. Ensure it is securely fastened to the vehicle frame, not the hitch itself.
If you notice any frayed wires, cracked tires, or rusted hitch components, stop immediately. It is much cheaper to replace a 7-pin plug or a set of trailer tires than it is to deal with a high-speed blowout or a lost trailer.
Maintenance Tips for Heavy Hauling
Towing puts significant stress on your vehicle’s drivetrain. To keep your 2020 ford explorer tow capacity at its peak, you must follow a more aggressive maintenance schedule. Ford refers to this as “Special Operating Conditions” in the owner’s manual.
The transmission is the part most likely to suffer. When towing, the 10-speed automatic transmission works harder, shifting more frequently and generating more heat. You should check your transmission fluid more often and consider changing it every 30,000 to 45,000 miles if you tow regularly, rather than waiting for the standard 100,000-mile interval.
Brakes are another critical area. Your Explorer’s rotors and pads will wear down faster due to the added mass they have to stop. Listen for squealing or feel for vibrations in the pedal. If you frequently tow in mountainous terrain, upgrading to heavy-duty ceramic brake pads can provide better fade resistance and longer life.
Finally, don’t forget the rear differential. The gears in the rear axle handle all the torque being sent to the wheels. Changing the differential fluid every 50,000 miles ensures the gears stay lubricated and cool, even during long hauls on hot summer days.
Real-World Towing Scenarios: What Can You Actually Pull?
Numbers on a page are one thing, but what does the 2020 ford explorer tow capacity look like in the real world? Let’s look at three common scenarios to help you visualize what your SUV can handle safely.
Scenario 1: The Weekend Angler
A 17-foot aluminum fishing boat on a single-axle trailer typically weighs around 2,500 to 3,000 pounds. Any 2020 Explorer, even one without the factory tow package, can handle this load comfortably. You will barely feel the boat behind you, and the Explorer’s rear-view camera makes lining up the hitch a breeze.
Scenario 2: The Family Camper
A 20-foot tandem-axle travel trailer often has a “dry weight” of 3,800 pounds. Once you add water, propane, and camping gear, that weight can easily climb to 4,800 pounds. For this, you need the 2.3L or 3.0L engine with the Class III package. You should also use a weight distribution hitch to ensure the Explorer remains level and stable at highway speeds.
Scenario 3: The Car Hauler
An open car hauler carrying a small track car or a pair of ATVs can weigh between 5,000 and 5,500 pounds. This is pushing the limits of the Explorer’s capacity. In this scenario, the 3.0L EcoBoost is highly recommended. You must be meticulous about weight distribution and should avoid steep mountain passes if you are at the absolute maximum weight limit.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2020 ford explorer tow capacity
Does the 2020 Ford Explorer come with a hitch?
Not all models come with a hitch. The hitch is part of the Class III Trailer Tow Package, which is standard on the ST and Platinum trims but optional on the Base, XLT, and Limited. If your Explorer has a plastic cover on the rear bumper, there may be a hitch hiding underneath.
Can I increase my towing capacity with aftermarket parts?
No. You can add an aftermarket hitch, but you cannot legally or safely increase the manufacturer’s rated towing capacity. The rating is based on the vehicle’s frame strength, braking capability, and cooling systems. Exceeding the factory limit is dangerous and can lead to mechanical failure.
Is the 2020 Explorer better at towing than the 2019 model?
Generally, yes. The 2020 Explorer moved to a rear-wheel-drive architecture, which provides better traction when a trailer is pushing down on the rear of the vehicle. It also increased the maximum capacity from 5,000 pounds in 2019 to 5,600 pounds in 2020.
What is “Tow/Haul” mode?
Tow/Haul mode is a setting on your drive mode dial. It changes the transmission’s shift points to stay in lower gears longer, providing more torque for climbing hills. It also provides engine braking when going downhill, which helps prevent your brakes from overheating.
Final Thoughts on Mastering Your Explorer’s Towing
The 2020 Ford Explorer is a remarkably capable SUV that bridges the gap between a family hauler and a light-duty truck. By understanding the specifics of the 2020 ford explorer tow capacity, you can enjoy your outdoor hobbies without putting your vehicle or your family at risk.
Always remember that towing is a skill that improves with practice. Start with shorter trips on familiar roads before heading out on a cross-country adventure. Pay attention to how the vehicle handles, stay on top of your maintenance, and never exceed your weight ratings.
If you ever feel the trailer swaying uncontrollably or hear strange noises from the drivetrain, pull over immediately. It is always better to be cautious and seek help from a professional mechanic or a towing expert than to risk a major accident. Stay safe, gear up properly, and enjoy the road ahead!
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