The Ford Flex is a crossover SUV produced by Ford from 2009 to 2019. It was offered in multiple trim levels with two powertrain options across its production run.
This guide covers Ford Flex towing capacity by model year, including maximum trailer weight, tongue weight, hitch class, and equipment requirements.
Towing specifications for the Ford Flex vary depending on engine choice, drivetrain configuration, and the presence of a factory or aftermarket Class III Trailer Tow Package.
Without the tow package, the Flex is rated for Class I towing only.
Following manufacturer-rated limits protects the engine, transmission, cooling system, and braking components from overload damage.
Quick Navigation
2019 Ford Flex Towing Capacity
The 2019 model year was the final production year for the Ford Flex.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L Ti-VCT V6; 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (twin-turbocharged) |
| Drivetrain | FWD (3.5L V6); AWD (3.5L V6 optional, 3.5L EcoBoost standard) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) with Class III Tow Package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) without tow package (Class I) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to door jamb label |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual by configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs (204 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class I (base); Class III (with tow package) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Class III Trailer Tow Package) |
The 2019 Ford Flex reaches a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 lbs when equipped with the Class III Trailer Tow Package. Both the 3.5L V6 and the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 are rated at this limit when properly equipped. The 3.5L V6 with FWD or AWD also requires a weight-distributing hitch to achieve the full 4,500 lb rating.
2018 Ford Flex Towing Capacity
The 2018 Ford Flex carried over the same powertrain and towing specifications from 2016 onward without significant change.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L Ti-VCT V6; 3.5L EcoBoost V6 |
| Drivetrain | FWD (3.5L V6); AWD (3.5L V6 optional, 3.5L EcoBoost standard) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) with Class III Tow Package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to door jamb label |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual by configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs (204 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class I (base); Class III (with tow package) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Class III Trailer Tow Package) |
The 2018 Ford Flex towing capacity peaks at 4,500 lbs when the Class III Trailer Tow Package is installed. The 3.5L V6 drivetrain in FWD configuration also requires a weight-distributing hitch to achieve the maximum trailer weight rating. Models without the factory tow package are limited to 2,000 lbs of trailer weight.
2017 Ford Flex Towing Capacity
The 2017 Ford Flex retained the same engine lineup and towing configuration as the 2016 model year.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L Ti-VCT V6; 3.5L EcoBoost V6 |
| Drivetrain | FWD (3.5L V6); AWD (3.5L V6 optional, 3.5L EcoBoost standard) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) with Class III Tow Package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to door jamb label |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual by configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs (204 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class I (base); Class III (with tow package) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Class III Trailer Tow Package) |
The 2017 Ford Flex offers a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 lbs with the Class III Tow Package installed. The EcoBoost V6 paired with AWD delivers this limit without requiring a weight-distributing hitch, unlike FWD-equipped 3.5L V6 models. Towing without proper equipment limits the vehicle to 2,000 lbs.
2016 Ford Flex Towing Capacity
The 2016 Ford Flex received no major mechanical changes affecting towing capacity compared to prior years.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L Ti-VCT V6; 3.5L EcoBoost V6 |
| Drivetrain | FWD (3.5L V6); AWD (3.5L V6 optional, 3.5L EcoBoost standard) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) with Class III Tow Package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to door jamb label |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual by configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs (204 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class I (base); Class III (with tow package) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Class III Trailer Tow Package) |
The 2016 Ford Flex towing capacity reaches 4,500 lbs when properly equipped with the Class III package. Ford’s official 2016 technical specifications confirm the Class III rating at 4,500 lbs. FWD models with the standard V6 require a weight-distributing hitch to reach that ceiling.
2015 Ford Flex Towing Capacity
The 2015 Ford Flex maintained the same towing specification framework as 2014, with the Class III tow package required to achieve maximum capacity.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L Ti-VCT V6; 3.5L EcoBoost V6 |
| Drivetrain | FWD (3.5L V6); AWD (3.5L V6 optional, 3.5L EcoBoost standard) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) with Class III Tow Package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to door jamb label |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual by configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs (204 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class I (base); Class III (with tow package) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Class III Trailer Tow Package) |
The 2015 Ford Flex achieves a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 lbs with the Class III Trailer Tow Package installed. Unlike the 2016-2019 models, a weight-distributing hitch is not listed as an additional requirement for 2015. The tow package was available on SEL and Limited trim levels for both engine options.
2014 Ford Flex Towing Capacity
The 2014 Ford Flex towing system was available across SEL and Limited trim levels with both engine options.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L Ti-VCT V6; 3.5L EcoBoost V6 |
| Drivetrain | FWD (3.5L V6); AWD (3.5L V6 optional, 3.5L EcoBoost standard) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) with Class III Tow Package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to door jamb label |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual by configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs (204 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class I (base); Class III (with tow package) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Class III Trailer Tow Package) |
The 2014 Ford Flex offers a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 lbs when equipped with the Class III Trailer Tow Package. Without this package, both the standard 3.5L V6 and the EcoBoost V6 are limited to 2,000 lbs. The tow package was an optional add-on for the SEL and Limited trim levels only.
2013 Ford Flex Towing Capacity
The 2013 Ford Flex followed the same towing parameters established in the 2012 model year.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L Ti-VCT V6; 3.5L EcoBoost V6 |
| Drivetrain | FWD (3.5L V6); AWD (3.5L V6 optional, 3.5L EcoBoost standard) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) without Class III hitch |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to door jamb label |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual by configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs (204 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class I (base); Class III (with tow package) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2013 Ford Flex carries a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 lbs, consistent with the 2012 specification. No additional weight-distributing hitch requirement was noted for this model year. Both engine options and drivetrain configurations were rated at the same maximum trailer weight limit when properly equipped.
2012 Ford Flex Towing Capacity
The 2012 model year established the consistent 4,500 lb ceiling that would carry through the remainder of Ford Flex production.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L Ti-VCT V6; 3.5L EcoBoost V6 |
| Drivetrain | FWD (3.5L V6); AWD (3.5L V6 optional, 3.5L EcoBoost standard) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) without Class III hitch |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to door jamb label |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual by configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs (204 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class I (base); Class III (with tow package) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2012 Ford Flex max towing capacity is 4,500 lbs across all engine and axle configurations when the Class III package is fitted. This model year did not list a weight-distributing hitch as an additional requirement. The EcoBoost V6 was available exclusively with AWD in this model year.
2011 Ford Flex Towing Capacity
The 2011 Ford Flex used a light-duty and heavy-duty towing classification rather than specifying towing limits by individual engine type.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L Ti-VCT V6; 3.5L EcoBoost V6 |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) – heavy-duty configuration |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) – light-duty configuration |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to door jamb label |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual by configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs (204 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class I (base); Class III (heavy-duty package) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (heavy-duty configuration) |
The 2011 Ford Flex towing capacity ranged from 2,000 lbs in light-duty configuration to 4,500 lbs in heavy-duty configuration. The 2011 model year also specified that a weight-distributing hitch was required to achieve the upper towing limit, a requirement not carried into 2012-2013. Buyers should verify their specific 2011 configuration before towing heavy loads.
2010 Ford Flex Towing Capacity
The 2010 Ford Flex required the Class III Trailer Tow Package to achieve its maximum trailer weight rating.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L Ti-VCT V6; 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (twin-turbocharged) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) with Class III Tow Package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to door jamb label |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual by configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs (204 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class I (base); Class III (with tow package) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2010 Ford Flex reaches a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 lbs with the Class III Trailer Tow Package installed. The tow package on the 2010 model included a hitch receiver, 7-wire harness, trailer sway control, and engine oil cooler. Without this package, the vehicle is limited to 2,000 lbs of trailer weight.
2009 Ford Flex Towing Capacity
The 2009 Ford Flex was the first model year, using the same light-duty and heavy-duty towing classification as 2010-2011.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L Ti-VCT V6; 3.5L EcoBoost V6 |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) – heavy-duty configuration |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) – light-duty configuration |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to door jamb label |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual by configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs (204 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class I (base); Class III (heavy-duty package) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (heavy-duty configuration) |
The 2009 Ford Flex towing capacity spans from 2,000 lbs to 4,500 lbs depending on the installed configuration. As the debut model year, the 2009 Flex established the same two-tier towing structure used through 2011. Verifying the installed hitch class before towing is essential for this model year.
Towing Equipment and Setup
Proper towing equipment is required to reach and safely maintain the Ford Flex maximum towing capacity. Each component plays a specific role in vehicle stability and mechanical protection during towing.
Tow Package Components
The Ford Flex Class III Trailer Tow Package includes the following components:
- Hitch receiver (2-inch Class III)
- 7-wire and 4-pin trailer wiring harness
- Trailer sway control (integrated with stability system)
- Engine oil cooler (on select configurations)
Normal Towing vs. Heavy Towing Setup
| Equipment | Normal Towing (under 2,000 lbs) | Heavy Towing (2,000-4,500 lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch Class | Class I | Class III |
| Wiring Harness | 4-pin | 7-pin |
| Trailer Brake Controller | Not required | Required for heavier trailers |
| Weight-Distributing Hitch | Not required | Required on FWD 3.5L V6 (2016-2019) |
| Engine Oil Cooler | Not required | Included in tow package |
| Transmission Cooler | Not required | Recommended |
Trailer brake controllers are strongly recommended for any trailer over 1,500 lbs and may be required by law in many jurisdictions depending on trailer weight. Proper tire load ratings on both the tow vehicle and the trailer must be confirmed before exceeding 2,000 lbs of trailer weight. A weight-distributing hitch is specifically required on FWD-equipped 3.5L V6 models from 2016-2019 to reach the full 4,500 lb towing capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Ford Flex?
The maximum towing capacity of the Ford Flex is 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg). This rating applies to all model years from 2009 to 2019 when properly equipped with the Class III Trailer Tow Package. Without the tow package, the limit is 2,000 lbs.
How much can a Ford Flex tow with a tow package?
With the Class III Trailer Tow Package, the Ford Flex is rated to tow up to 4,500 lbs. The package includes a hitch receiver, trailer sway control, engine oil cooler, and a 7-wire harness to support the full trailer weight rating.
Does drivetrain (FWD vs AWD) affect Ford Flex towing capacity?
Both FWD and AWD configurations share the same 4,500 lb maximum towing capacity when properly equipped. However, FWD models equipped with the standard 3.5L V6 from 2016-2019 require a weight-distributing hitch in addition to the Class III tow package to reach the 4,500 lb limit. AWD models do not carry this additional requirement.
What trailer weight is safe for a Ford Flex?
A trailer weighing up to 4,500 lbs is within the manufacturer-rated limit for properly equipped Ford Flex models. Staying at or below 80 percent of the maximum towing capacity provides a safety margin that accounts for trailer sway, road grade, and brake response. Tongue weight must remain at or below 450 lbs regardless of trailer configuration.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Ford Flex?
A weight-distributing hitch is specifically required for FWD-equipped 3.5L V6 Ford Flex models from 2016-2019 to reach the 4,500 lb towing capacity. Models from 2012-2015 and AWD models from 2016-2019 do not list this as a mandatory requirement for achieving maximum towing limits. Always confirm the requirement in the model-year-specific towing guide.
Can a Ford Flex tow a camper?
The Ford Flex can tow a small camper within its 4,500 lb maximum towing capacity rating. Lightweight travel trailers, pop-up campers, and small teardrop trailers generally fall within this limit. Extended highway grades at maximum trailer weight can place significant load on the transmission cooling system.
Conclusion
The Ford Flex towing capacity ranges from 2,000 lbs in base configuration to a maximum of 4,500 lbs when properly equipped with the Class III Trailer Tow Package across all model years from 2009 to 2019. Both available engine options, the 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 and the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, are rated at the same maximum trailer weight limit when the correct equipment is installed. Drivetrain selection between FWD and AWD does not change the towing capacity ceiling but does affect equipment requirements for FWD models in the 2016-2019 range. The tow package remains the single most important factor in determining how much a Ford Flex can safely tow.
Always verify towing specifications using the owner’s manual before towing heavy loads.
