The Ford Expedition is a full-size, body-on-frame SUV produced by Ford Motor Company. It has been in continuous production since the 1997 model year, offered in standard-wheelbase and extended-wheelbase (Expedition MAX / EL) configurations across multiple powertrain setups.
This guide covers Ford Expedition towing capacity by model year, from 2000 through 2026, including maximum trailer weight, payload capacity, GCWR, and hitch requirements for each configuration. Specifications vary based on engine, drivetrain, axle ratio, and installed equipment. Following manufacturer-rated towing limits protects the engine, transmission, braking system, and frame from overload damage.
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2026 Ford Expedition Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (400 hp); 3.5L EcoBoost V6 High-Output (440 hp) |
| Drivetrain | RWD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 9,600 lbs (4,354 kg) – 4×2 with Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,660 lbs (753 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 17,800 lbs (8,074 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 960 lbs (435 kg) at max rating |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package) |
The 2026 Ford Expedition reaches a maximum towing capacity of 9,600 lbs on properly equipped 4×2 models, representing the highest rating in the nameplate’s history. The standard 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine powers all trims, with the High-Output version available on select configurations including the Tremor. Expedition MAX models with 4×4 are rated up to 9,000 lbs when the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package is installed.
2025 Ford Expedition Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (400 hp); 3.5L EcoBoost V6 High-Output (440 hp) |
| Drivetrain | RWD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 9,300 lbs (4,218 kg) – 4×2 with Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,660 lbs (753 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 17,500 lbs (7,938 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 930 lbs (422 kg) at max rating |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package) |
The 2025 Ford Expedition offers a maximum towing capacity of 9,300 lbs on properly equipped standard-wheelbase 4×2 models. The Active, King Ranch, and Platinum trims use the standard 400 hp EcoBoost V6, while the Tremor comes standard with the 440 hp High-Output version. Expedition MAX 4×4 models reach up to 9,000 lbs with the tow package installed.
2024 Ford Expedition Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (380 hp); 3.5L EcoBoost V6 High-Output (440 hp) |
| Drivetrain | RWD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 9,300 lbs (4,218 kg) – standard 4×2 |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,756-1,758 lbs (797-798 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 17,500 lbs (7,938 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 930 lbs (422 kg) at max rating |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package) |
The 2024 Ford Expedition reaches a maximum towing capacity of 9,300 lbs on standard-wheelbase 4×2 models with the factory tow package. The 4×4 configuration is rated at 9,200 lbs, while Expedition MAX variants in both 4×2 and 4×4 trim are rated up to 9,000 lbs. Trailers weighing over 6,000 lbs require a weight-distributing hitch on all 2024 models per Ford’s towing guide.
2023 Ford Expedition Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (380 hp); 3.5L EcoBoost V6 High-Output (440 hp) |
| Drivetrain | RWD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 9,300 lbs (4,218 kg) – 4×2 with tow package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,756-1,758 lbs (797-798 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 17,500 lbs (7,938 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 930 lbs (422 kg) at max rating |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package) |
The 2023 Ford Expedition carries identical towing ratings to the 2022 model, with a maximum trailer weight of 9,300 lbs on properly equipped standard-wheelbase 4×2 configurations. Ford’s factory towing information for this year specifies that a weight-distributing hitch is required for loads above 6,000 lbs. Payload capacity remains consistent at 1,756 to 1,758 lbs across most 2023 trim levels.
2022 Ford Expedition Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (380 hp); 3.5L EcoBoost V6 High-Output (440 hp) |
| Drivetrain | RWD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 9,300 lbs (4,218 kg) – 4×2 with tow package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,756-1,758 lbs (797-798 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 17,500 lbs (7,938 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 930 lbs (422 kg) at max rating |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package) |
The 2022 Ford Expedition is rated for a maximum towing capacity of 9,300 lbs when the proper axle ratio and Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package are selected on 4×2 standard-wheelbase models. Ford’s official 2022 Expedition Towing Selector confirms the SAE J2807 testing method was applied to all ratings for this model year. Payload capacity ranges from 1,756 to 1,758 lbs across configured trims.
2019-2021 Ford Expedition Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (375 hp) |
| Drivetrain | RWD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 9,300 lbs (4,218 kg) – 4×2 with tow package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,620 lbs (735 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 17,200 lbs (7,802 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 930 lbs (422 kg) at max rating |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package) |
The 2019, 2020, and 2021 Ford Expedition models share a maximum towing capacity of 9,300 lbs on standard-wheelbase 4×2 configurations with the tow package. The single powertrain option across these years, the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, keeps the specification table consistent, with axle ratio remaining the primary differentiating factor for trailer weight limits. The 4×4 variant and Expedition MAX models achieve slightly lower maximum ratings in the 9,000 lbs range.
2018 Ford Expedition Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (375 hp) |
| Drivetrain | RWD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 9,300 lbs (4,218 kg) – 2WD/4WD with 3.73 axle ratio and tow package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 6,100 lbs (2,767 kg) – 2WD with 3.15/3.31 axle |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,600 lbs (726 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 12,100-17,000 lbs (5,488-7,711 kg) depending on configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 930 lbs (422 kg) at max rating |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (required for max rating) |
The 2018 Ford Expedition was the first model year of the fourth generation, introducing the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 as the sole engine option. Maximum towing capacity of 9,300 lbs applies to both 2WD and 4WD configurations when equipped with the 3.73:1 axle ratio and factory tow package. Expedition MAX variants reach up to 9,000 lbs under the same equipment conditions.
2015-2017 Ford Expedition Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (365 hp) |
| Drivetrain | RWD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 9,300 lbs (4,218 kg) – 4WD with 3.73 axle, tow package (2017) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 6,600 lbs (2,994 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,580 lbs (717 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 16,500 lbs (7,484 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 920-930 lbs (417-422 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (required for max rating) |
The 2015 through 2017 Ford Expedition generations transitioned from the 5.4L V8 to the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 as the standard powertrain, beginning with the 2015 model year. Maximum towing capacity reaches 9,300 lbs on 2017 4WD models with the 3.73:1 axle ratio and tow package, while 2015 and 2016 4×2 variants max out at 9,200 lbs. The 2015 and 2016 models uniquely offered a 4.10 gear ratio option that provided additional pulling capability on steep grades.
2010-2014 Ford Expedition Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.4L Triton V8 (310 hp) |
| Drivetrain | RWD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 9,200 lbs (4,173 kg) – 2WD with tow package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,580 lbs (717 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 16,400 lbs (7,439 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 900-920 lbs (408-417 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III / IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (required for max rating) |
The 2010 through 2014 Ford Expedition used a single engine option, the 5.4L Triton V8, which produces consistent towing specifications across this five-year range. Maximum towing capacity reaches 9,200 lbs on 2WD models with the tow package installed, while 4WD-equipped units are rated at 8,900 to 9,000 lbs depending on model year. Expedition EL (extended-length) 4WD variants are rated slightly lower at 8,700 lbs maximum in this same period.
2005-2009 Ford Expedition Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.4L Triton V8 (300 hp) |
| Drivetrain | RWD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 9,200 lbs (4,173 kg) – 2WD with tow package (2009) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,550 lbs (703 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 16,200 lbs (7,348 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 900 lbs (408 kg) at max rating |
| Hitch Class | Class III / IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (required for max rating) |
The 2005 through 2009 Ford Expedition continued with the 5.4L Triton V8, delivering towing capacities ranging from 6,000 lbs to 9,200 lbs depending on axle ratio and tow package status. The third generation, beginning with model year 2007, received a fully boxed hydroformed frame that increased torsional stiffness by 70 percent and raised maximum towing capacity to 8,900 lbs. The 2009 model year saw the maximum 2WD rating increase to 9,200 lbs with the factory tow package.
2003-2004 Ford Expedition Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 4.6L V8 (232 hp); 5.4L Triton V8 (260 hp) |
| Drivetrain | RWD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,950 lbs (4,060 kg) – 5.4L with tow package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) – 4.6L base configuration |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,485 lbs (674 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 15,600 lbs (7,076 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 875-895 lbs (397-406 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2003 and 2004 Ford Expedition offered two engine choices, the 4.6L V8 and the 5.4L Triton V8, with the larger engine delivering the higher towing ratings. Maximum towing capacity for these years ranges from 5,000 lbs on base configurations to 8,950 lbs on properly equipped 5.4L models. The 2003 Eddie Bauer trim with rear-wheel drive is rated at 8,900 lbs maximum towing capacity with a 1,485-lb maximum payload.
2000-2002 Ford Expedition Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 4.6L V8 (232 hp); 5.4L Triton V8 (260 hp) |
| Drivetrain | RWD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,300 lbs (3,765 kg) – 5.4L with tow package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,500 lbs (2,495 kg) – 4.6L base |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,460 lbs (662 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 15,000 lbs (6,804 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 830 lbs (377 kg) at max rating |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2000 through 2002 Ford Expedition used the same 4.6L and 5.4L V8 engines as the 2003 and 2004 models but offered slightly different gear ratios that affected towing ratings. The 4.6L engine configuration produced maximum towing in the 5,500 to 6,300 lbs range, while the 5.4L engine reached a maximum of 8,300 lbs in this generation. These ratings are lower than later model years due to drivetrain and frame differences between the second and third generation platforms.
Towing Equipment and Setup
Tow Package Requirements
The factory tow package is the single most important factor in reaching the Ford Expedition’s maximum trailer weight rating. Without it, towing capacity on most model years drops to 6,000 to 6,600 lbs. The Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package typically includes an upgraded hitch receiver, trailer wiring harness, a brake controller interface, transmission cooler, and a heavy-duty rear differential. On newer models (2019 and later), it also includes Pro Trailer Backup Assist and trailer sway control.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
Ford specifies that any trailer load over 6,000 lbs requires a weight-distributing hitch on all Expedition standard and MAX models. A weight-distributing hitch transfers tongue weight from the rear axle to all axles of the tow vehicle and trailer, improving steering control and reducing sag. This is not optional equipment for heavy towing; it is a manufacturer condition for achieving rated capacity.
Trailer Brake Controller
A trailer brake controller is required by law in most jurisdictions when trailer weight exceeds 3,000 lbs, and it is strongly recommended for any load over 1,500 lbs. Modern Expedition models with the tow package include a factory-integrated brake controller output. A proportional brake controller activates trailer brakes in proportion to the tow vehicle’s deceleration rate, providing the most stable braking behavior.
Setup Comparison
| Component | Standard Towing (Under 6,000 lbs) | Heavy Towing (Over 6,000 lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch Class | Class III | Class IV |
| Weight-Distributing Hitch | Not required | Required |
| Trailer Brake Controller | Recommended | Required |
| Transmission Cooler | Stock sufficient | Upgraded cooler advised |
| Tire Load Rating | Standard load | Check load index for GVW |
| Trailer Sway Control | Optional | Strongly recommended |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Ford Expedition?
The maximum towing capacity of a Ford Expedition is 9,600 lbs (4,354 kg) on properly equipped 2026 model year 4×2 configurations with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package. For most model years from 2017 onward, the maximum rating is 9,300 lbs on standard-wheelbase 2WD models. Older models using the 5.4L V8 are typically rated up to 9,200 lbs on 2WD configurations.
How much can a Ford Expedition tow with a tow package?
With the factory Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package installed, a Ford Expedition can tow between 9,000 and 9,600 lbs depending on model year, drivetrain, and wheelbase. Without the tow package, towing capacity drops significantly to approximately 6,000 to 6,600 lbs. The tow package supplies the axle ratio, hitch hardware, wiring, and cooling components necessary to achieve the rated maximum trailer weight.
Does 4WD affect Ford Expedition towing capacity?
Yes, 4WD (4×4) configurations typically produce a slightly lower maximum towing capacity compared to 2WD (4×2) variants of the same model year. For example, the 2024 Expedition 4×2 is rated at 9,300 lbs while the 4×4 version is rated at 9,200 lbs. The weight penalty and mechanical differences in the transfer case and front axle account for this small reduction.
What trailer weight is safe for a Ford Expedition?
A safe trailer weight is any load at or below the manufacturer-rated maximum for the specific engine, drivetrain, and axle ratio of the individual vehicle. It is also essential to remain within the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR), which accounts for the combined weight of the loaded tow vehicle and trailer. Total tongue weight must stay within 10 to 15 percent of trailer gross weight and must not exceed the tongue weight limit listed in the towing guide.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Ford Expedition?
Ford requires a weight-distributing hitch on all Expedition SWB and LWB models when trailer weight exceeds 6,000 lbs. This is a manufacturer condition, not merely a recommendation, for achieving the rated maximum trailer weight. Towing above 6,000 lbs without a weight-distributing hitch may cause rear axle overload, reduced steering control, and compromised braking performance.
Which Ford Expedition engine provides the best towing capacity?
On current models, both the standard 3.5L EcoBoost V6 and the High-Output version can reach the maximum tow rating when properly equipped, as towing limits are determined more by axle ratio, drivetrain, and the tow package than by engine output alone. On older models (2000 to 2014), the 5.4L V8 consistently outperformed the 4.6L V8 by approximately 2,000 lbs in maximum trailer weight capacity.
Conclusion
The Ford Expedition has maintained a maximum towing capacity range of approximately 8,300 lbs to 9,600 lbs across its production history from 2000 through 2026. Earlier generations using the 4.6L and 5.4L V8 engines produced maximum ratings up to 8,300 to 9,200 lbs, while modern 3.5L EcoBoost V6 configurations reach 9,300 to 9,600 lbs when properly equipped. Engine selection, axle ratio, drivetrain configuration, and the factory tow package are the primary variables that determine actual towing limits for any individual unit. Expedition MAX and 4WD models consistently produce slightly lower ratings compared to standard-wheelbase 2WD variants of the same model year.
Always verify specifications using the owner’s manual before towing heavy loads.
