Yes, a 2017 Explorer can tow a travel trailer—if it’s properly equipped with the optional Class III Trailer Tow Package, which boosts its max capacity to 5,300–5,600 pounds (depending on engine and setup).
Does the 2017 Ford Explorer come with a tow package?
No, the 2017 Ford Explorer doesn’t include a tow package as standard equipment. You’ll need to add either the Class II or Class III Trailer Tow Package through a dealer, depending on your engine and what you plan to tow.
Go with the Class II package if you’re hauling up to 5,000 lbs. Need more? The Class III package handles up to 5,600 lbs and comes with a weight-distributing hitch. Double-check your build sheet or window sticker to see which package—if any—is already installed.
What’s the towing capacity of a 2017 Ford Explorer?
A 2017 Ford Explorer can tow anywhere from 2,000 to 5,600 pounds, and that range depends entirely on the trim, engine choice, and whether you’ve got the tow package.
Stick with the base 2.3L EcoBoost and skip the tow package, and you’re capped at about 2,000 lbs. Upgrade to the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 and slap on the Class III Tow Package, though, and you’re looking at 5,300 lbs of towing power—officially documented by Ford.
How much can a Ford Explorer tow with the tow package installed?
Once you’ve got the Class III Trailer Tow Package in place, a 2017 Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,300–5,600 pounds—but only if it’s packing the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 and AWD, based on Ford’s 2017 ratings.
The 3.5L V6’s torque and the heavy-duty cooling system are big reasons this SUV can handle that much weight. Just make sure the engine code on your build sheet matches what’s needed for the tow package—otherwise, you won’t hit those numbers.
Is the Ford Explorer a good choice for towing?
The 2017 Explorer is fine for light to moderate towing once you add the Class III Trailer Tow Package, which lets it handle up to 5,600 pounds (based on 2017 specs).
It’s not going to out-tow a Chevy Tahoe or a Ford Expedition, but it’s a solid pick for small travel trailers, pop-ups, or utility trailers—so long as you stay within its payload and GCWR limits. For anything over 5,000 lbs, use a weight-distributing hitch and keep tongue weight between 10–15% of the trailer’s total weight.
What kinds of trailers can a Ford Explorer tow?
With the right setup, a Ford Explorer can tow small travel trailers (around 3,500 lbs), utility trailers (up to 5,000 lbs), pop-ups, teardrops, and even some hybrid campers (up to 5,600 lbs).
Always match the trailer’s GVWR to your Explorer’s GCWR—you’ll find both numbers on the door jamb label. And don’t forget: payload and rear-axle ratings matter too. Exceeding them can mess with your ride and safety. A sway-control hitch is a smart move for campers.
How can I tell if my 2017 Explorer has a tow package?
Check for a 2-inch receiver hitch, a seven-pin trailer wiring harness, and a trailer brake controller interface on the dash—those are the telltale signs of a tow package.
You can also dig into your VIN using Ford’s build archive or scan the Monroney sticker for “Trailer Tow Package” or “Class III Trailer Tow.” Still unsure? A quick call to a Ford dealer with your VIN will clear things up.
Can a Ford Explorer tow a camper?
Absolutely—if it’s got the Class III Trailer Tow Package, a 2017 Explorer can pull small to midsize campers up to 5,600 lbs, including pop-ups, teardrops, and some lightweight travel trailers.
Double-check the camper’s loaded weight against your Explorer’s GCWR and payload capacity. Overloading leads to sway, weaker brakes, and extra strain on the transmission. For anything over 4,500 lbs, a weight-distributing hitch and integrated brake controller are non-negotiable for safe towing.
Can I install a tow package on my Ford Explorer after purchase?
Yes—aftermarket Class II or Class III tow packages are available and can be installed by a certified shop or a skilled DIYer. Just grab the right hitch, wiring, and brake controller.
Popular kits like the Curt 13271 (Class III) or Draw-Tite 76034 run about $500–$1,200 for parts and labor. Just confirm your Explorer’s model year, engine, and axle ratio match the kit’s specs before you buy.
What’s the maximum payload for a 2017 Ford Explorer?
The 2017 Explorer’s max payload is roughly 1,000 to 1,200 lbs when equipped with the 3.5L EcoBoost and Class III Tow Package, according to Ford’s official ratings.
Payload covers passengers, cargo, tongue weight, and roof-mounted gear. Go over that limit and you risk premature tire wear, suspension sag, and shaky handling. Weigh your loaded SUV at a certified scale to be sure you’re in the clear.
Can a 2018 Ford Explorer tow a camper?
A properly equipped 2018 Ford Explorer can tow campers up to 5,300 lbs (with the 2.3L EcoBoost + Class III) or 5,600 lbs (with the 3.5L EcoBoost + Class III), based on 2018 model-year ratings.
Without the tow package? You’re stuck at about 2,000 lbs. Before you buy a camper, verify the engine and tow package using your build sheet. And for anything over 4,500 lbs, a weight-distributing hitch and integrated brake controller are must-haves for keeping things stable and safe.
Edited and fact-checked by the FixAnswer editorial team.
