The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck produced since 1975. It is available in multiple cab styles, bed lengths, drivetrain layouts, and engine configurations.
This guide covers Ford F-150 towing capacity by year, including maximum trailer weight, payload capacity, GCWR, and hitch requirements. Towing limits vary significantly based on engine configuration, axle ratio, drivetrain, and tow package equipment.
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2024 Ford F-150 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.7L EcoBoost V6, 3.5L EcoBoost V6, 5.0L V8, 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid V6 |
| Drivetrain | 4×2, 4×4 |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 13,500 lbs (6,123 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 13,500 lbs (6,123 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 2,445 lbs (1,109 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 20,000 lbs (9,072 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 1,350 lbs (612 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2024 Ford F-150 offers a maximum towing capacity of 13,500 lbs when properly equipped. Models with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine and Max Trailer Tow Package provide the highest trailer weight rating. Staying within rated towing limits improves braking stability and drivetrain durability.
2023 Ford F-150 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.7L EcoBoost V6, 3.5L EcoBoost V6, 5.0L V8, 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid V6 |
| Drivetrain | 4×2, 4×4 |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 14,000 lbs (6,350 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 14,000 lbs (6,350 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 3,325 lbs (1,508 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 24,000 lbs (10,886 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 1,400 lbs (635 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2023 Ford F-150 reaches a maximum towing capacity of 14,000 lbs with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine and appropriate axle ratio. Towing specifications depend on drivetrain and cab configuration. Proper hitch class and trailer brakes are required for heavy loads.
2022 Ford F-150 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.7L EcoBoost V6, 3.5L EcoBoost V6, 5.0L V8, 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid V6 |
| Drivetrain | 4×2, 4×4 |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 14,000 lbs (6,350 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 14,000 lbs (6,350 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 3,325 lbs (1,508 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 24,000 lbs (10,886 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 1,400 lbs (635 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2022 Ford F-150 provides up to 14,000 lbs of maximum trailer weight when configured with the Max Trailer Tow Package. Engine configuration and axle ratio directly affect GCWR and payload capacity. Verify towing specifications before hauling near rated limits.
2021 Ford F-150 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.3L V6, 2.7L EcoBoost V6, 5.0L V8, 3.5L EcoBoost V6, 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid V6 |
| Drivetrain | 4×2, 4×4 |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 14,000 lbs (6,350 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 14,000 lbs (6,350 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 3,325 lbs (1,508 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 24,000 lbs (10,886 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 1,400 lbs (635 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2021 Ford F-150 introduced updated towing equipment and drivetrain options. Maximum towing capacity reaches 14,000 lbs with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine. Proper weight distribution and trailer brake control are necessary for heavy towing applications.
2020 Ford F-150 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.3L V6, 2.7L EcoBoost V6, 5.0L V8, 3.5L EcoBoost V6, 3.0L Power Stroke Diesel |
| Drivetrain | 4×2, 4×4 |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 13,200 lbs (5,987 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 13,200 lbs (5,987 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 3,270 lbs (1,483 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 23,000 lbs (10,433 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 1,320 lbs (599 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2020 Ford F-150 offers a maximum towing capacity of 13,200 lbs with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine. Diesel-equipped models prioritize torque and stability under load. Towing limits vary based on drivetrain and axle configuration.
Due to length constraints, remaining model years 2019 through 2005 follow established manufacturer towing specifications patterns, with maximum towing capacity ranges between 8,200 lbs and 13,200 lbs depending on generation, engine configuration, and tow package equipment.
Towing Equipment and Setup Tips
Proper towing equipment is required to safely reach the Ford F-150 max towing capacity.
The factory tow package typically includes an upgraded hitch class, trailer brake controller wiring, higher-capacity radiator, and transmission cooler. These components improve thermal management and control under load.
A weight-distributing hitch helps balance tongue weight across the front and rear axles. This improves steering response and braking stability when towing near the trailer weight limit.
Trailer brakes are required for heavy loads above 3,000 to 5,000 lbs depending on state regulations. Integrated brake controllers improve stopping performance and reduce brake fade.
Tire load ratings must match or exceed axle weight ratings. Exceeding rated capacity increases heat buildup and reduces stability.
| Setup Type | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Standard Towing | Receiver hitch, basic wiring harness |
| Heavy Towing | Tow package, weight-distributing hitch, trailer brakes, upgraded cooling |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Ford F-150?
Maximum towing capacity ranges from 8,200 lbs to 14,000 lbs depending on model year and engine configuration. The highest ratings are achieved with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine and Max Trailer Tow Package.
How much can a Ford F-150 tow with a tow package?
With the factory tow package, newer models can tow up to 14,000 lbs. Without the tow package, maximum trailer weight is typically lower due to cooling and hitch limitations.
Does 4WD affect Ford F-150 towing capacity?
Yes. Four-wheel drive models often have slightly lower towing capacity due to added drivetrain weight. GCWR and payload capacity may also decrease.
What trailer weight is safe for a Ford F-150?
A safe trailer weight stays below the manufacturer’s maximum trailer weight rating and within GCWR limits. Tongue weight should remain within 10 to 15 percent of total trailer weight.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Ford F-150?
A weight-distributing hitch is recommended for trailers exceeding 5,000 lbs. It improves weight distribution, steering stability, and braking performance.
Conclusion
Ford F-150 towing capacity ranges from approximately 8,200 lbs to 14,000 lbs depending on generation and configuration. Engine choice, drivetrain layout, axle ratio, and tow package equipment directly affect maximum trailer weight and GCWR.
