2020 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2020 Ford Explorer can tow between 5,000 and 5,600 pounds, depending on the engine, drivetrain, and specific configuration.

Quick answer

• Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 - 5,600 lbs
• Max Payload: 1,266 - 1,720 lbs
• GVWR: 5,830 - 6,600 lbs
• GCWR: 10,000 - 10,600 lbs
• Curb Weight: 4,345 - 4,727 lbs
• Hitch Class: Class III (Standard), Class IV (with optional Class IV Trailer Tow Package)
  • Class III Tongue Weight: 500 lbs (without weight distribution)
  • Class IV Tongue Weight: 560 lbs (without weight distribution)

Tow ratings by engine & trim

Please note: These figures are based on SAE J2807 standards. Always refer to your vehicle's door jamb sticker and owner's manual for the most accurate and specific information regarding your particular Explorer's towing capabilities.

Tow package contents

For the 2020 Ford Explorer, the Class IV Trailer Tow Package (optional on most models, standard on ST and Platinum) is crucial for maximizing towing capacity. This package typically includes:

• Class IV Trailer Hitch: Provides a 2-inch receiver opening, suitable for heavier loads.
• Trailer Wiring Harness: Both 4-pin and 7-pin connectors to power trailer lights and provide a charge to the trailer battery (with the 7-pin).
• Engine Oil Cooler: Helps manage engine temperatures when under the increased stress of towing.
• Rear Axle Cooling Fins: Contributes to keeping the rear differential cool, which is beneficial for towing.
• Integrated Trailer Brake Controller (ITBC): While a 7-pin connector is included, an integrated trailer brake controller is typically an accessory or aftermarket addition on most Explorer models. Always confirm availability when ordering the tow package, as features can vary by trim and year. For safe towing of trailers with electric brakes, an ITBC is highly recommended.
• Trailer Sway Control (TSC): An electronic stability feature that helps mitigate trailer sway by selectively applying the brakes and adjusting engine power. This is often an integrated part of the Explorer's advance stability control system.

5th-wheel & gooseneck

The 2020 Ford Explorer, being a mid-size SUV, is not designed or rated for 5th-wheel or gooseneck towing. These types of trailers require a heavy-duty pickup truck with a specialized hitch installed in the truck bed. Attempting to tow a 5th-wheel or gooseneck trailer with an Explorer would be unsafe and could lead to serious damage to the vehicle and trailer, as well as an accident.

Weight distribution & WDH requirements

For safe towing with the 2020 Ford Explorer, especially when approaching the upper limits of its towing capacity or when the tongue weight exceeds 500 lbs (Class III) or 560 lbs (Class IV), a Weight Distributing Hitch (WDH) is highly recommended. A WDH helps to distribute the tongue weight of the trailer more evenly across all axles of the tow vehicle and trailer. This helps to:

• Restore proper steering and braking control.
• Reduce rear vehicle sag.
• Improve overall stability.
• Lesser the stress on the vehicle's frame and suspension.

Always ensure your WDH is properly installed and adjusted according to its manufacturer's instructions and your Explorer's owner's manual.

Real-world towing tips for this vehicle

1. Understand Your Limits: Never exceed your Explorer's maximum towing capacity, payload capacity, GVWR, or GCWR. These numbers are critical for safe operation.
2. Proper Loading: Load your trailer with approximately 60% of the cargo weight in the front half of the trailer to ensure adequate tongue weight (typically 10-15% of the total trailer weight) for stability. Secure all cargo to prevent shifting.
3. Check Tire Pressure: Ensure both your Explorer's tires and the trailer's tires are inflated to the recommended pressures for towing, as specified in your owner's manual and on the trailer.
4. Practice Driving: If you're new to towing, practice turning, backing up, and braking in a safe, open area before hitting the open road.
5. Allow for Longer Stopping Distances: With a trailer attached, your stopping distance will significantly increase. Always leave plenty of space between your Explorer and the vehicle in front of you.
6. Monitor Temperatures: Keep an eye on your engine temperature gauge, especially on long climbs or in hot weather. Your Explorer's engine oil cooler in the tow package helps, but it's still wise to monitor.
7. Regular Maintenance: Ensure your Explorer is well-maintained, especially the brakes, tires, and transmission, before any towing trip.

Common towing-related issues

• Overheating: Pushing the vehicle too hard or towing in extreme conditions without proper cooling can lead to engine or transmission overheating. The tow package's cooling components help mitigate this.
• Trailer Sway: While the Explorer has Trailer Sway Control, aggressive driving, improper trailer loading, or strong crosswinds can still induce sway. Proper tongue weight and a WDH are key preventative measures.
• Reduced Braking Performance: The added weight of a trailer will increase stopping distances. Ensure your trailer has properly functioning brakes, and consider an integrated brake controller.
• Suspension Sag: Heavy tongue weight can cause the rear of the Explorer to sag, affecting handling and headlight aim. A weight-distributing hitch is essential to counteract this.
• Transmission Strain: Towing places additional stress on the transmission. Ensure regular transmission fluid changes according to your maintenance schedule, especially if you tow frequently.

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