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◆ OEM Tow Rating

2023 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity

Factory towing capacity, payload, GCWR, and hitch class for the 2023 Ford Explorer — plus the gear this setup calls for.

2023 Ford Explorer — 2.3L EcoBoost I4 (RWD/4WD) and 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (RWD/4WD) and 3.3L Ti-VCT V6 and 3.3L HEV V6 configurations with automatic transmission only; no manual transmission or other cab/bed variants listed

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⚠ Pending verification

Figures were extracted from the source below and are pending confirmation against the OEM towing guide.

Source: OEM towing guide — 2023 Ford RV & Trailer Towing Guide · retrieved 2026-07-02

Max Towing Capacity

5,600

lbs / 2,520 kg

Payload

—

Hitch Class

Class III

GCWR

10,600 lbs

Engine Variants

4 variants

Trim Notes

Maximum 5,600 lbs is achieved with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (3.73 axle ratio) OR the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (3.31 or 3.58 axle ratio) OR the 3.3L Ti-VCT V6 (3.58 axle, Fleet only), all requiring the available Class IV Trailer Tow Package (52T or 536). The 3.0L EcoBoost V6 is available on King Ranch and Platinum (3.31 axle) and ST model (3.58 axle); Class IV Trailer Tow Package (52T) is standard on ST. The 3.3L HEV V6 is limited to 5,000 lbs even with Class IV package.

⚠ Important

Peak 5,600 lb: 3.0L EcoBoost V6, 3.31 axle ratio (King Ranch and Platinum models) or 3.58 axle ratio (ST model), RWD or 4WD, with Class IV Trailer Tow Package (52T), automatic transmission (conventional ball hitch). Next-highest 5,300 lb: 2.3L EcoBoost I4, 3.58 axle ratio, RWD or 4WD, GCWR 10,000/10,100/10,300 lbs, requires Class IV Trailer Tow Package (52T).

◆ Gear you may need

🔩Trailer HitchCURT & Reese, sized to your class→🛑Brake ControllerRequired for trailers over 3,000 lbs→🪞Tow MirrorsExtended view for wide loads→🔌Trailer Wiring HarnessVehicle-specific plug-and-play→⚙️Ball Mount & Hitch BallMatched to your receiver→

Always confirm against your door-jamb sticker & OEM towing guide before hauling. Ratings vary by exact configuration.

Different configuration? Look it up

The 5,600 lbs figure above is the properly-equipped maximum for this model year. For a specific trim, engine, or drivetrain, run your exact setup through the live tool:

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Prose overview

The 2023 Ford Explorer carries a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 lbs when properly equipped, paired with a Class III hitch. As with every truck and SUV, the rating swings by engine, drivetrain, cab and bed configuration, and rear axle ratio — so two 2023 Ford Explorers on the same lot can be rated thousands of pounds apart. Match your trailer to the lowestrelevant limit (towing capacity, payload, GCWR, and hitch rating), and verify against the sticker inside the driver's-side door jamb.

Related tow ratings

2024 Ford Explorer →2022 Ford Explorer →2025 Ford Explorer →2024 Ford F-150 →2023 Ford F-150 →2022 Ford F-150 →

2023 Ford Explorer towing FAQ

What is the maximum towing capacity of a 2023 Ford Explorer?

A properly equipped 2023 Ford Explorer is rated to tow up to 5,600 lbs. This maximum applies only to specific engine, axle, and tow-package combinations — most trims tow less.

What hitch class does the 2023 Ford Explorer need?

Based on its rated capacity, the 2023 Ford Explorer typically pairs with a Class III hitch. Always match the hitch to your loaded trailer weight and never exceed the vehicle's rated capacity.

Do I need a brake controller to tow with a 2023 Ford Explorer?

Most states require trailer brakes — and a brake controller — for trailers over 3,000 lbs loaded. A brake controller syncs the trailer's brakes with the vehicle's for safe, controlled stops.

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