2017 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity

Understanding the towing capacity of your vehicle is essential, especially if you’re planning to transport a trailer, boat, or other heavy loads. The 2017 Ford Explorer is among the popular choices for SUV enthusiasts, not just for its spaciousness and performance, but also for its commendable towing capabilities.

In a Nutshell

• Towing Capacity: The 2017 Ford Explorer offers towing capacities up to 5,000 pounds, depending on the engine and equipment.
• Engine Options: Includes three engine options with varying impacts on towing potential.
• Towing Package: Availability of a Class III Trailer Tow Package for enhanced towing capacity.
• Driving Safety: Several safety features and tips for towing safely and efficiently.
• Comparison: An analysis comparing the Explorer’s capacity with that of other SUVs.

Table of Contents

• Towing Capacity Overview
• Engine Options and Their Impact
• Essential Towing Packages
• Safety Features and Tips
• Comparative Analysis
• Key Considerations
• FAQ Section

Towing Capacity Overview

The 2017 Ford Explorer is equipped with formidable towing capabilities. The towing capacity varies significantly based on the selected engine and the equipped towing package. Here’s a quick look at the potential of the Explorer:

• When equipped with the standard 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 engine, the Explorer has a towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds.
• With the available Class III Trailer Tow Package, the towing capacity increases to 5,000 pounds on all-wheel drive (AWD) models.
• The towing capacity also heavily depends on the correct loading and distribution of weight.

For more details on the specific towing capacity, check out the 2017 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity.

Engine Options and Their Impact

The Ford Explorer offers diverse engine options that affect its towing capacity and performance.

1. 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 Engine:
   • Basic option providing a towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds without a towing package.
2. 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 Engine:
   • Available with a towing capacity of up to 3,000 pounds with the appropriate tow package.
3. 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine:
   • Offers the most robust towing performance, capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds with AWD and the Class III Trailer Tow Package.

Each engine provides different benefits in terms of fuel efficiency and torque, affecting your towing experience. For more intricate details on engine specifics and towing efficiency, visit Ford’s official site.

Essential Towing Packages

The Class III Trailer Tow Package is pivotal for maximizing towing capacity. This package includes:

• Upgraded Cooling Systems: Keeps the engine at optimum temperatures during heavy towing.
• Trailer Sway Control: Integrates with the AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™ for maintaining trailer control.
• Wiring Harness: Provides easy connectivity for trailer lights and brakes.

Integrating this package is recommended if towing towards the maximum capacity of 5,000 pounds.

Safety Features and Tips

Towing safely requires attention to several key safety features and practices.

• Blind Spot Information System (BLIS): Alerts drivers of vehicles in blind spots, helping during lane changes.
• Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning: Helps in maintaining safe distances from the vehicle in front.
• Driver Alert System: Detects tired driving behavior, which is crucial during long towing.

Ensure to regularly check your tire pressure, brake functionality, and load distribution before embarking on your towing trip. For towing capacity and guidance, Towing Capacity offers excellent resources.

Comparative Analysis

How does the 2017 Ford Explorer stack up against other SUVs in terms of towing capacity?

• Chevrolet Traverse: Offers similar capacity but lags in efficiency compared to EcoBoost engines.
• Toyota Highlander: Comparable base towing capacity, but limited options for an increased package.
• Honda Pilot: Offers about 3,500 pounds, which is less flexible without additional packages.

The Explorer’s combination of power, versatility, and optional enhancements often positions it favorably against competitors.

Key Considerations

Before towing, consider these crucial aspects:

• Ensure your load doesn’t exceed the vehicle’s stated maximum towing capacity.
• Regular maintenance of your vehicle is vital for safe and efficient towing.
• Understanding local towing laws and regulations can prevent unforeseen complications.

FAQ Section

1. What is the maximum towing capacity of the 2017 Ford Explorer?

The maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds with the appropriate equipment and towing package.

2. Does every 2017 Ford Explorer need the towing package?

No, the towing package is not mandatory unless you plan to tow over the default limits or often haul heavy loads.

3. Which engine is best for towing with the Explorer?

The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine, combined with the Class III Trailer Tow Package, offers optimal towing capability.

4. How does the towing package affect performance?

The towing package enhances engine cooling and provides stability features that are critical for safe towing.

5. Can I retrofit the Class III Trailer Tow Package onto my Ford Explorer?

Yes, retrofit is possible, but it’s best done by certified professionals to ensure compatibility and safety.

6. What safety features assist in towing?

Features like Trailer Sway Control, BLIS, and AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control provide safety and stability.

By considering these insights and expert guidelines, your experience in towing with a 2017 Ford Explorer will be both efficient and safe. For more detailed information on vehicle towing capacities and advice, explore TowingCapacity.us.