2023 Ford Explorer St Towing Capacity – The Ultimate Guide To Hauling
The 2023 Ford Explorer ST offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 pounds when properly equipped with the Class IV Trailer Tow Package. This impressive figure allows owners to haul mid-sized boats, travel trailers, and utility setups without sacrificing the performance of the 400-horsepower EcoBoost engine.
You likely chose the Explorer ST because you want a vehicle that handles like a sport sedan but offers the utility of a family hauler. It is a rare breed of SUV that can pin you to your seat on the highway and then pull a 20-foot camper to the lakeside on the weekend.
However, understanding the 2023 ford explorer st towing capacity is about more than just reading a number in a brochure. It requires a solid grasp of weight distribution, cooling requirements, and the specific hardware that makes high-performance towing possible.
In this guide, we will break down the technical specs, explore the essential gear you need, and provide pro-level tips to ensure your towing experience is safe and efficient. Whether you are a seasoned DIYer or a first-time trailer owner, this breakdown will help you master your Ford’s capabilities.
Understanding the 2023 ford explorer st towing capacity
The 2023 Ford Explorer ST is powered by a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This combination is the heart of its 5,600-pound rating, which sits at the top of the Explorer lineup.
While the standard Explorer models often max out at 5,000 or 5,300 pounds, the ST’s additional structural reinforcements and cooling capacity push it further. It is important to note that this 2023 ford explorer st towing capacity is only achievable with the factory-installed Class IV Trailer Tow Package.
Without this package, your towing limit drops significantly, often to a mere 3,000 pounds. The package includes a frame-mounted hitch, a 4-pin and 7-pin wiring harness, and upgraded engine cooling components to handle the extra stress of a heavy load.
The Role of the 3.0L EcoBoost Engine
The ST’s engine produces 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Torque is the critical factor here, as it provides the “grunt” needed to get a heavy trailer moving from a complete stop.
Because this engine uses twin turbochargers, it maintains its performance even at higher altitudes. This is a massive advantage for off-roaders and campers heading into the mountains where naturally aspirated engines might struggle.
The 10-Speed SelectShift Transmission
The 10-speed transmission is designed to keep the engine in its power band. When towing, the transmission logic changes to prevent “hunting” between gears, which can lead to overheating.
I recommend using the Tow/Haul mode found on the drive mode dial. This setting optimizes shift points and provides engine braking when descending hills, protecting your brake pads from excessive wear.
Essential Hardware for the Class IV Tow Package
If you are looking at a 2023 Ford Explorer ST on a dealer lot, you must verify the presence of the Class IV hitch. This is a heavy-duty receiver designed to handle the tongue weight of a 5,600-pound trailer.
The package also includes a specialized engine oil cooler. Towing generates immense heat, and keeping your oil temperature within safe limits is vital for the long-term health of your twin-turbo V6.
Additionally, the 7-pin wiring harness is a standard part of this setup. This allows you to connect a trailer with electric brakes, which is a legal and safety requirement for most loads exceeding 3,000 pounds.
Upgraded Cooling Systems
The ST comes with a high-capacity radiator and cooling fans. These parts work harder when the vehicle detects the increased aerodynamic drag and weight of a trailer.
If you are a DIY mechanic, always check your coolant levels before a big trip. Use the Motorcraft Orange or Yellow coolant specified in your manual to ensure the water pump and seals remain lubricated.
Rear-Wheel Drive vs. Intelligent 4WD
The ST is available in both Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and Intelligent 4WD. Interestingly, both configurations share the same 5,600-pound 2023 ford explorer st towing capacity rating.
However, for off-road enthusiasts or those towing on boat ramps, the 4WD system is superior. It provides the necessary traction to pull a heavy load up a slippery incline without spinning the rear tires.
Calculating Payload and Tongue Weight
One of the most common mistakes owners make is confusing towing capacity with payload capacity. Payload is the weight of everything inside or on the vehicle, including passengers, gear, and the trailer’s tongue weight.
Your 2023 Ford Explorer ST has a payload capacity typically ranging between 1,200 and 1,500 pounds. If you have four adults and a trunk full of camping gear, you have already used up a significant portion of that limit.
The tongue weight—the downward pressure the trailer exerts on the hitch—should be about 10% to 15% of the total trailer weight. For a 5,000-pound trailer, that is 500 to 750 pounds pressing down on your rear axle.
Finding Your Specific Ratings
Always check the Tire and Loading Information sticker located on the driver-side B-pillar (the door frame). This sticker provides the exact payload limit for your specific vehicle as it left the factory.
Do not rely on general internet figures for your specific VIN. Options like the panoramic moonroof or premium audio systems add weight, which reduces your available payload for towing.
Using a Weight Distribution Hitch
For trailers approaching the max 2023 ford explorer st towing capacity, I highly suggest using a weight distribution hitch. This device uses spring bars to “level” the load across both the front and rear axles of the SUV.
This prevents the rear end from sagging, which can cause the front tires to lose traction and steering precision. A level vehicle is a safe vehicle, especially when navigating winding mountain roads.
Pro Tips for Safe Towing and Maintenance
Before you hit the road, perform a “walk-around” inspection. Check that all trailer lights—including blinkers and brake lights—are functioning correctly through the 7-pin connector.
Check your tire pressures on both the Explorer and the trailer. Towing puts extra stress on the sidewalls, so ensuring they are at the maximum recommended PSI (found on the tire sidewall or door jamb) is crucial for stability.
If you are towing a camper, remember that the “dry weight” listed by the manufacturer does not include water, propane, or your gear. Always assume your trailer weighs 500-800 pounds more than the sticker says.
Installing an Aftermarket Brake Controller
While the ST is “pre-wired” for a brake controller, it does not always come with the physical controller installed from the factory. You will need to plug in a unit like the Tekonsha P3 or a Ford-approved accessory.
The plug is usually located under the dashboard on the driver’s side. Having a functional brake controller allows you to manually trigger the trailer brakes in the event of “trailer sway,” which can save your life in high winds.
Monitoring Your Gauges
The Explorer ST features a digital instrument cluster that can display real-time data. I recommend setting your “MyView” to show transmission fluid temperature and boost pressure.
If you see the transmission temperature climbing above 225°F while climbing a grade, pull over safely. Let the engine idle to allow the cooling fans to circulate air and fluid before continuing your journey.
What Can You Actually Tow?
With a 5,600-pound limit, the 2023 Ford Explorer ST is surprisingly versatile. It bridges the gap between light crossovers and heavy-duty body-on-frame trucks.
Here are some real-world examples of what fits within the 2023 ford explorer st towing capacity:
- Small Travel Trailers: Many 18-foot to 22-foot campers weigh between 3,500 and 4,800 pounds fully loaded.
- Ski Boats and Bowriders: A typical 20-foot boat on a tandem-axle trailer usually falls around 4,500 pounds.
- Utility Trailers: You can easily haul a pair of ATVs or a side-by-side on a flatbed trailer.
- Horse Trailers: A lightweight single-horse trailer is manageable, but always account for the weight of the animal and hay.
Always remember to leave a “safety buffer.” Just because the car can pull 5,600 pounds doesn’t mean you should push it to the limit every single day. Staying at 80% of capacity ensures a more relaxed driving experience.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
The most dangerous issue when towing is trailer sway. This occurs when the trailer begins to fishtail behind the vehicle, often due to improper weight distribution or high speeds.
The Explorer ST features electronic Trailer Sway Control. This system uses the SUV’s brakes to slow down individual wheels and bring the trailer back into line, but it cannot overcome physics if the trailer is loaded incorrectly.
Never load all your heavy gear at the very back of the trailer. This “tail-heavy” setup is the primary cause of sway. Keep the heaviest items centered over the trailer axles or slightly forward.
Ignoring the Rear Suspension
The ST has a sport-tuned suspension that is firmer than the base models. While this helps with stability, it can still “bottom out” if the tongue weight is too high.
If you notice the rear of the vehicle sitting significantly lower than the front, you are overloading the hitch. This can lift the front wheels enough to reduce steering grip, which is extremely dangerous in the rain.
The Importance of Side Mirrors
The standard mirrors on the Explorer are great for daily driving but may not see around a wide camper. I recommend purchasing tow mirror extensions that clip onto your existing housings.
Being able to see the rear tires of your trailer while making turns or changing lanes is essential. It prevents you from clipping curbs or, worse, other vehicles in your blind spot.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2023 ford explorer st towing capacity
Does the 2023 Ford Explorer ST require a weight distribution hitch?
While not strictly required for loads under 5,000 pounds, Ford recommends a weight distribution hitch for any trailer that causes significant rear-end sag. It greatly improves steering and braking performance by leveling the chassis.
Can I tow 5,600 pounds if I install an aftermarket hitch?
Generally, no. The 5,600-pound 2023 ford explorer st towing capacity is based on the factory-installed Class IV package, which includes specialized cooling and wiring. An aftermarket hitch might be physically strong enough, but the vehicle may lack the necessary cooling to protect the engine and transmission.
Is the ST better for towing than the Explorer Timberline?
The Timberline is excellent for off-road towing due to its increased ground clearance and underbody shielding. However, the ST has a higher towing capacity (5,600 lbs vs 5,300 lbs) thanks to its more powerful 3.0L EcoBoost engine.
How does towing affect the gas mileage of the Explorer ST?
Expect a significant drop in fuel economy. While the ST can get 24-26 MPG on the highway unloaded, towing a large camper can drop that figure to 10-12 MPG due to the aerodynamic drag and the engine staying under constant boost.
Conclusion: Mastering Your Performance Hauler
The 2023 ford explorer st towing capacity of 5,600 pounds makes it one of the most capable SUVs in its class. It successfully marries the thrill of a performance vehicle with the ruggedness needed for weekend adventures.
By respecting the payload limits, using the right hardware like a Class IV hitch and a brake controller, and practicing safe driving habits, you can haul with total confidence. Remember to always prioritize balance and cooling to keep your vehicle running strong for years to come.
Take the time to set up your rig correctly, check your connections twice, and enjoy the freedom that comes with a high-performance tow vehicle. Stay safe, keep your eyes on the road, and enjoy the haul!
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