ENGINES & SPECS
2015 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity & Tow Packages
Ford 2015 Explorer towing limits explained: 2,000 versus 5,000 lb, engine, tow package, payload and hitch requirements
Confirm the vehicle's engine, trim, drivetrain, market and equipment. The exact procedure may differ, even within the same model year.
2015 Explorer reference
| Engine and drivetrain | Without required package | With qualifying heavy-duty package |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L EcoBoost FWD | 2,000 lb | No 5,000-lb configuration listed |
| 3.5L V6 FWD | 2,000 lb | Up to 5,000 lb |
| 3.5L V6 AWD | 2,000 lb | Up to 5,000 lb |
| 3.5L EcoBoost AWD | 2,000 lb | Up to 5,000 lb |
The published 5,000-lb row specifically calls for the heavy-duty trailer tow package and weight-distributing hitch. Check ratings for your exact VIN, hitch, tongue load, payload and GCWR before towing.
The answer depends on equipment
Ford’s 2015 Explorer towing selector gives a maximum loaded trailer weight of 2,000 lb for configurations without the required heavy-duty towing equipment. Appropriately equipped 3.5L V6 and 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Explorers can reach 5,000 lb. A 2.0L EcoBoost Explorer remains listed at 2,000 lb. These are upper ratings, not guarantees for every loaded vehicle.
What the 5,000-lb figure requires
Ford’s towing guide footnote says the 5,000-lb configurations require the optional Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package and a weight-distributing hitch. The brochure describes the Class III Trailer Tow Package as available with the naturally aspirated 3.5L V6 and standard on Sport. Verify the exact tow package by factory build information, not by the presence of an aftermarket receiver.
Ratings by engine
The 2.0L EcoBoost FWD is listed at 2,000 lb. The 3.5L V6, FWD or AWD, is listed at 2,000 lb in configurations without the required package and 5,000 lb with the required package. The 3.5L EcoBoost AWD also lists 2,000 or 5,000 lb depending on towing configuration.
Payload and tongue weight still count
A trailer’s tongue load adds to the load carried by the Explorer. Passengers, luggage, accessories, the hitch and tongue weight must all fit within the door-jamb payload and gross vehicle weight limits. The maximum trailer number by itself does not tell you how much remains once the family and cargo are aboard.
GCWR and trailer loading
Gross Combined Weight Rating covers the loaded Explorer and loaded trailer together. Ford’s published table includes multiple axle and drivetrain configurations; check the exact line that matches your vehicle. Use actual scale weights for the loaded combination rather than empty catalogue weights.
Brakes, hitch and wiring
Trailer braking and equipment requirements vary with trailer weight and local laws. Verify receiver and ball ratings, safety-chain attachment, electrical connector operation and trailer brake compatibility. Sway-control electronics are a supplement to correct loading and driving, not a substitute for an appropriate hitch.
For a 3.5L XLT owner
Your XLT’s V6 engine does not automatically mean you can tow 5,000 lb. Confirm factory towing package and final drive, manufacturer instructions, vehicle weights and the proper weight-distributing hitch. When those details are uncertain, do not assume the higher rating.
Driving on grades and in heat
Allow longer following and stopping distances, use appropriate gear selection and watch coolant and transmission temperatures. If warning messages appear or the vehicle overheats, stop safely rather than trying to maintain speed up a grade. Frequent towing can trigger additional maintenance requirements.
An example that shows why payload matters
Suppose an Explorer has a rated payload of 1,100 lb on its actual door label. If passengers and cargo already account for 700 lb, only 400 lb remains for the trailer tongue and other added equipment. That may limit a trailer well below the published 5,000-lb headline. These figures are an illustration, not the rating of your Explorer.
Before a first towing trip
Confirm the factory equipment using the build record, then check the loaded trailer weight, tongue weight, gross vehicle weight and gross combined weight against all applicable labels and tables. Inspect trailer lights, tires, brakes and safety chains. Practice manoeuvring in a safe open area and reduce speed for grades, crosswinds and poor weather.
Use the correct model-year manual and current service information. Stop if instructions or safety precautions are unclear, and use a qualified technician for work you cannot verify.
References and further reading
This independent guide is not endorsed by the vehicle manufacturer. Let us know if you spot an error.