How Much Can a Ford F-150 Tow?

Ford F-150s are known for their power. In fact, the reason they are so attractive to so many truck owners is because of their towing capabilities. Whether moving equipment from one job site to another or towing a camper for a weekend getaway, the Ford F-150 boasts amazing capability.

Not every Ford F-150 has the same maximum towing capability. Engine options, drivetrain, cab and body style, and more, can influence the specific maximum towing capacity for a given F-150.

Simply put, there is a range for maximum towing weight an F-150 can pull. The Ford F-150 does not come in a one-size-fits-all model. Because of that, it is worth considering how much power you need and researching which F-150 model variants provide the best match for you.

The Ford F-150 engine plays a role in determining towing capabilities. There has also been an increase when looking year by year. For instance, a 2021 Ford F-150 has more towing capability than a 2015 model. This is because technologies have improved, both in terms of the Ford Tow Package as well as engine efficiency.

A 2015 model’s max towing ranges anywhere from 5,000 lbs to 12,200 lbs, with a payload capacity of between 1,580 lbs to 3,300 lbs. A 2023 model, on the other hand, can tow up to 14,000 lbs, with a max payload of 3,310 lbs. 

Overall, you might be saying to yourself, “Well, that is quite a significant range.” And yes, it is. But in order to reach the max towing capacity, a Tow Package is required. A Tow Package is a series of upgrades to your F-150. 

Some examples of such upgrades include a trailer hitch, for instance. A wiring harness is another basic upgrade that increases how much your F-150 can tow. There are also rear axle gears that can be replaced to improve traction and control. 

These are only a few of the features of a Ford Tow Package, and depending on your need, it is worth meeting with a professional to discuss in more detail. But another major consideration that informs how much your F-150 can tow is the engine.

A 2.7L V6 engine might be standard, but it is not as powerful as a 5.0L V8 engine. You might be thinking this is obvious, but your engine size doesn’t have to be all or nothing. The ranges of the engine can match the ranges of power, but it depends on your preferences. 

For instance, a 3.0L diesel engine is certainly going to provide top-notch power, but a full hybrid V6 might surprise you when you take a closer look. Options like this can make a difference in how much your Ford F-150 can tow. 

As you have seen, the wide range of towing capacities leaves much room for carryover. For example, every Ford F-150 model in the last ten years can tow over 10,000 lbs. Therefore, it comes down to what you are in need of. 

If eco-friendly is on your mind, then a hybrid engine is likely where you want to start. This means you will have to look at a newer model, since hybrid engines have only been partnered with the Ford F-150 since the 2022 model. 

On the other hand, you might be in need of a simple truck towing setup, and perhaps an 8,000 lb capacity is all you are in need of. If that is the case, then you have a wide range of options and models to choose from.

The bottom line is that there is a Ford F-150 ideal for every person and every scenario. The variety of options among the various models means truck owners can get precisely what they want. More importantly, they can get what they need. And because of this, it is worth speaking to a professional about the advantages of one model over another as it pertains to your situation. 

Browse our inventory of new and used vehicles, and find something that meets your needs today and don’t be shy about reaching out to one of our friendly Ford experts to talk through your towing needs.