The F-series of trucks has long been Ford’s top-selling line for good reason. Their reliability, easy maintenance, and versatility make them the perfect vehicles for anyone looking for a new work truck or daily commuter. One of the biggest draws of the Ford F-150 is its best-in-class towing capacity. From the family boat to a trailer loaded with heavy materials for your next job site, the F-150 can truly handle it all. Let’s take a look at why America’s most recognizable pickup is the best option on the market when it comes to towing.
What Factors Determine a Truck’s Towing Capacity?
Before we dive into the impressive towing capacity of the F-150, let’s explore some of the most critical factors that ultimately decide the maximum towing capacity of any truck.
- Engine power: An engine that produces high levels of horsepower and torque will excel at hauling.
- Brakes: Your truck’s braking system needs to be capable of bringing a significant amount of added weight to a complete stop in a safe manner.
- Drivetrain: Opting for a 4×4 drivetrain (four-wheel drive) will bring the benefit of increased traction, but a 4×2 (rear-wheel drive) typically lowers a truck’s overall weight and, in turn, allows for a higher towing capacity.
- Axle ratio: A higher gear ratio will increase a vehicle’s overall towing capabilities.
- Cab/bed configuration: The size of a truck’s cab and the dimensions of its bed can either hinder or boost its ability to tow.
- Payload: The more passengers and cargo that are carried in your truck, the lower its towing rating will be. Think of a truck’s payload capacity as the overall weight it can carry, factoring in both its internal and external cargo. On the other hand, towing capacity is the overall amount of weight it can pull.
What Is the Towing Capacity of Past Ford F-150 Models?
If you’re in the market for a used F-150, previous model years will still bring the advanced engineering that puts the F-150 in a class of its own. Here’s a rundown of the towing capacity ranges of the last 10 F-150 model years:
- 2013: 5,000 to 11,300 lbs
- 2014: 5,000 to 11,300 lbs
- 2015: 5,000 to 12,200 lbs
- 2016: 5,000 to 12,200 lbs
- 2017: 5,000 to 12,200 lbs
- 2018: 5,000 to 13,200 lbs
- 2019: 5,000 to 13,200 lbs
- 2020: 5,000 to 13,200 lbs
- 2021: 5,000 to 14,000 lbs
- 2022: 5,000 to 14,000 lbs
Even going back as far as a decade, the F-150 has offered a maximum towing capacity that meets the needs of the vast majority of consumers. Consider all your options before investing in your next pickup—you might find your dream truck within our catalog of used F-150s.
What Is the Towing Capacity of the 2023 Ford F-150?
The 2023 F-150 continues Ford’s tradition of offering best-in-class towing capacities. When properly equipped, the model can tow up to 14,000 lbs. Those looking to maximize their F-150’s towing performance should seek out the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine paired with the Max Trailer Tow Package and configured as a SuperCab with an eight-foot box and 4×2 drivetrain. Alternatively, the 4×2 drivetrain as a SuperCrew will suffice.
Check out the maximum towing capacity of all seven F-150 engine options for the 2023 model year:
- 3.3L Ti-VCT V6: 8,200 lbs
- 2.7L EcoBoost V6: 10,100 lbs
- 3.5L EcoBoost V6: 14,000 lbs
- 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6: 12,700 lbs
- 5.0L Ti-VCT V8: 13,000 lbs
- 3.5L EcoBoost H. O. V6: 8,200 lbs
- 5.2L Supercharged V8: 8,700 lbs
If you plan on using your F-150 for towing, the aforementioned Max Trailer Tow Package is a must. Standard on the Raptor, Tremor, and Limited trims, the package brings a host of features to enhance your F-150’s towing capabilities, from a Class IV Trailer Hitch Receiver to an integrated trailer brake controller. It also includes Pro Trailer Backup Assist, a 3.55 electronic-locking rear axle, a four- or seven-pin wiring harness, and an upgraded rear bumper.
Customers who opt for the XL trim should note that they will also need to purchase the heavy-duty payload package in order to accommodate the Max Trailer Tow Package.
What Do I Need To Know Before Towing in a Ford F-150?
You should educate yourself on safe and effective towing practices before you take advantage of your F-150’s towing capabilities for the first time. You can use the following tips as a starting point for your research:
- Match the hitch ball to the trailer: Research indicates that hitch balls with improper fits are the leading cause of trailer-related accidents. Ensure that your hitch ball is the same size as your trailer’s coupler.
- Carry a spare tire for your trailer: Getting stuck on the side of the road with a trailer can be a massive inconvenience. Avoid potential headaches by bringing an extra tire with you.
- Use trailer safety chains: Every trailer should have safety chains installed that hook up to the hitch. Chains serve as a failsafe in case something were to happen to the connection between your hitch and the trailer.
- Double-check trailer lights: Visually confirm that the trailer’s running lights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights are operating in conjunction with your vehicle. The trailer’s electrical wiring system should be properly connected to the vehicle—loose enough to make turns, but not hanging so low that it touches the ground.