A 2016 Ford Explorer can tow a trailer, but the amount it can haul depends on the engine, whether the factory towing package is installed, and the vehicle’s configuration. In general, some Explorers are rated for up to 5,000 pounds, while others are limited to around 2,000–3,000 pounds.
Overview: what to know before towing
Understanding the Explorer’s towing capability requires looking at the specific engine, drivetrain, and whether the vehicle has the optional towing package. The official rating is published by Ford for each configuration and is also listed on the vehicle’s door sticker and in the owner's manual. The following sections break down typical ranges and how to verify your particular setup.
Before you list or compare capacities, note that towing capacity is the maximum trailer weight the vehicle can safely pull when properly equipped. It is limited by engine power, cooling, transmission cooling, suspension, axle capacity, and the overall weight of the vehicle with passengers and cargo (payload). Always match the trailer’s gross trailer weight to the rating on your specific vehicle, and never exceed it.
Engine options and typical towing ratings
The 2016 Explorer offered more than one engine, and tow ratings vary accordingly. The numbers below reflect common configurations and the effect of a factory towing package. Always confirm with your vehicle’s sticker or manual for the exact figure.
- 3.5L V6 with the factory Tow Package: Up to about 5,000 pounds maximum towing capacity.
- 2.0L EcoBoost I4 with Tow Package: Up to roughly 3,000 pounds.
- 3.5L V6 without the Tow Package: Typically lower than the max with the package; often in the 2,000–3,000 pound range depending on equipment and drivetrain.
In practice, the most common high-capacity setup is the 3.5L V6 paired with the factory Tow Package, which Ford designed to deliver the full 5,000-pound rating when properly configured with the correct hitch and cooling features.
Weight and configuration considerations
Several factors can influence the actual usable capacity beyond the engine choice, including your drivetrain (two-wheel drive vs. four-wheel drive), proper hitch class, payload capacity (people and cargo in the vehicle), and any aftermarket modifications. Always verify the exact GCWR (gross combined weight rating) and tongue weight limits for your specific vehicle configuration.
How to tow safely with a 2016 Explorer
To tow safely and efficiently with a 2016 Explorer, follow these best practices. The steps below assume you are towing within the vehicle’s rated capacity and using the factory tow package where applicable.
- Use the correct hitch and a dedicated towing package if your configuration requires it.
- Verify tongue weight (the downward force the trailer applies to the hitch) is within the recommended range, typically about 10–15% of the trailer’s gross weight.
- Install and use trailer brakes if required by the trailer’s weight or local regulations; ensure electrical connections are secure and functioning.
- Distribute load evenly in the trailer and secure all equipment to prevent shifting during braking or cornering.
- Adjust driving habits for towing: allow extra stopping distance, brake earlier, and plan for longer acceleration and deceleration times.
These guidelines help ensure the vehicle remains within its design limits while towing and reduce the risk of overheating or instability on the road.
What to check before towing
Before attaching a trailer to a 2016 Explorer, perform a quick verification to avoid overloading or safety issues. Check the following items on your specific vehicle configuration:
- Vehicle data plate and owner’s manual for the exact towing capacity and GCWR.
- Door jamb sticker to confirm the correct maximum trailer weight for your trim and tow package.
- Condition and rating of the hitch, wiring, and towing equipment; ensure compatibility with the trailer’s electrical system.
- Trailer’s weight, including cargo and fluids, to keep total load within the rating and allow for passengers/cargo in the SUV.
By verifying these details, you can tow confidently and stay within the manufacturer’s safety margins.
Common questions about towing with the 2016 Explorer
People often wonder whether body style, package options, or drivetrain affect real-world towing. Remember that the official rating is configuration-specific. If you are considering towing regularly, choose the configuration with the higher rating and ensure proper maintenance (cooling system, transmission, and brakes) to support sustained towing.
Summary
The 2016 Ford Explorer can tow a trailer, with capacity ranging from around 2,000–3,000 pounds on most non-max configurations to up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with the factory Tow Package and a 3.5L V6 engine. Always confirm the exact rating for your vehicle using the door sticker and the owner's manual, and follow proper towing practices, including appropriate hitch setup, load distribution, trailer brakes if required, and safe driving adjustments. With the right configuration and careful planning, towing a trailer is feasible and safe on a 2016 Explorer.