What Is The Towing Capacity of a 2013 Ford Expedition

Question:

I recently bought a 2013 Ford expedition XLT it listed that it came with a class IV trailer tow package on the window sticker that the first owner purchased it with. It has the heavy duty hitch and a large transmission cooler from what we can tell. However, Ford.com says with the vin# it is rated to tow only 6000#. My understanding is that class IV is for extra heavy-duty towing. However, it doesnt have trailer break controls installed in the dash but does have the wiring for them... I am left wondering if I can tow 8000# with this vehicle or not? Any recommendations would help as a dokey bought this to tow.

asked by: Hollie

Expert Reply:

From my research online I found that your 2013 Ford Expedition with the heavy duty trailer tow package has a maximum towing capacity of 9200lbs if your Expedition is 2WD, and 9000lbs if you Expedition is 4WD with the use of a weight distribution hitch. On your trailer hitch receiver you should see a sticker that shows the max Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) and max Tongue Weight (TW) with weight distribution.

I recommend contacting your local Ford Dealership to have them verify that your vehicle did come with the factory Heavy Duty Towing Package you mentioned, as without it the maximum towing capacity is 6000lbs.

I included a few articles that explain how to find the right weight distribution hitch, as the tongue weight of your loaded trailer, and cargo behind the rear axle determine the correct hitch for your application, how to use and install a weight distribution hitch, and a link to our weight distribution hitches.

For a trailer brake controller I recommend the Curt Echo Wireless Trailer Brake Controller # C51180 as it has a simple install that doesn't require any work inside of your vehicle, and use a mobile app to control. I attached the installation video for the Curt Echo Wireless # C51180 for you to take a look at. If your Expedition does not have a factory 7-way connector you will need the 7-Way RV Upgrade Kit for Trailer Brake Controller Installation # ETBC7L to install the Curt Echo Wireless # C51180.