If you're looking to haul a boat or a small camper, the 2017 ford explorer xlt tow capacity is likely the most important spec you're checking out right now. It's one of those things where the numbers on paper can get a little confusing because there isn't just one single answer. Depending on how the SUV is equipped, you might find yourself with a vehicle that's great for a light utility trailer or one that can handle a decent-sized travel trailer for a weekend at the lake.
The 2017 Explorer remains a popular choice on the used market because it hits that sweet spot between a family hauler and a rugged weekend warrior. But before you hitch up and head out, you really need to know what your specific XLT trim is actually capable of doing.
Understanding the Two Main Numbers
When we talk about the 2017 ford explorer xlt tow capacity, the range generally falls into two categories: 2,000 pounds or 5,000 pounds. That is a massive gap, and it's almost entirely dependent on whether the vehicle has the Class III Trailer Tow Package installed from the factory.
If you have a base XLT without any special towing equipment, you're looking at a 2,000-pound limit. That's enough for a pair of jet skis or a small garden trailer, but not much else. However, if your XLT has the 3.5L V6 engine and the factory-installed tow package, that number jumps up to a much more respectable 5,000 pounds.
The Role of the Engine
The engine under the hood plays a huge part in how much work the Explorer can do. For the 2017 XLT trim, you usually find one of two options.
The standard engine is the 3.5L Ti-VCT V6. This is the workhorse of the lineup. It produces about 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque. When paired with the right gear, this is the engine that gets you to that 5,000-pound maximum. It feels sturdy and predictable, which is exactly what you want when you've got a heavy load behind you.
Then there's the 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine. A lot of people assume that because it's a smaller engine, it can't tow as much. Interestingly, while it's great for fuel economy and has plenty of pep for daily driving, its towing capacity is often capped lower if it wasn't specifically optioned with the right cooling and hitch hardware. Even though the torque is impressive on the EcoBoost, the V6 is generally the preferred choice for those who plan on towing regularly.
Why the Class III Tow Package is a Must
If you're shopping for a used 2017 Explorer XLT and you know you're going to be towing, you have to check for the Class III Trailer Tow Package. You can't just bolt on an aftermarket hitch and assume you've increased the 2017 ford explorer xlt tow capacity to 5,000 pounds.
The factory package includes more than just the metal bar under the bumper. It usually comes with an engine oil cooler and a heavy-duty radiator. Towing puts a ton of stress on an engine and transmission, and heat is the number one enemy. Without that extra cooling capacity, you risk overheating your transmission on a long uphill climb. The package also includes the 4-pin and 7-pin wiring harness, making it easy to connect your trailer's lights and brakes.
What Can You Actually Pull?
So, what does 5,000 pounds look like in the real world? It's more versatile than you might think, but you still have to be careful with your math.
- Small Travel Trailers: Many modern "lightweight" campers fall into the 3,000 to 4,000-pound range. This leaves you a bit of a buffer for water, propane, and gear.
- Boats: A mid-sized fiberglass bowrider or a decent-sized pontoon boat on a trailer will usually fit within the 5,000-pound limit.
- Utility Trailers: If you're hauling an ATV, a couple of dirt bikes, or some landscaping equipment, the Explorer XLT won't even break a sweat.
The mistake a lot of people make is looking at the "dry weight" of a trailer. If a trailer says it weighs 4,500 pounds dry, you're almost certainly going to exceed the 2017 ford explorer xlt tow capacity once you add food, luggage, and a full tank of water. It's always better to have a little breathing room.
Payload vs. Towing Capacity
One thing that often gets overlooked is payload. Your towing capacity is how much the car can pull, but payload is how much weight the car can carry. This includes the people in the seats and the stuff in the trunk.
When you attach a trailer, a portion of that trailer's weight (called tongue weight) pushes down on the hitch. That tongue weight counts toward your payload. If you have five adults in the car and a trunk full of coolers, you might hit your payload limit before you even hit your towing limit. It's a balancing act. If you're maxing out the trailer weight, you might want to keep the interior of the SUV a bit lighter to ensure a safe ride.
Safety Tech and Handling
Ford did a pretty good job making the 2017 Explorer feel stable while towing. One of the best features is the Trailer Sway Control. It works alongside the AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control. If the system senses the trailer is starting to fish-tail or wobble, it can automatically apply the brakes to individual wheels and adjust engine power to help bring everything back under control.
Even with that tech, driving a loaded Explorer feels different. You'll notice the braking distances are longer, and the steering feels a bit heavier. The XLT's suspension is tuned for comfort, which is great for daily commutes, but it can feel a little "soft" when you have a heavy tongue weight. Using a weight-distribution hitch can really help level things out and make the drive feel much more secure.
Maintenance for Towing
If you're regularly pushing the 2017 ford explorer xlt tow capacity to its limit, you can't follow the standard maintenance schedule. Towing is considered "severe duty" in the owner's manual.
You'll want to change your oil more frequently and keep a very close eye on your transmission fluid. Heat breaks down transmission fluid quickly, and a burnt-out transmission is an expensive fix. Also, don't forget your brakes. Stopping 5,000 pounds of SUV plus another 4,000 pounds of trailer puts a lot of heat into your brake pads and rotors. If you're doing a lot of mountain driving, consider upgrading to high-performance pads that can handle the heat better.
Final Thoughts
The 2017 Ford Explorer XLT is a fantastic all-arounder, but its towing capabilities aren't one-size-fits-all. Before you head out on your next adventure, take a look at the sticker inside the driver's side door jamb or check your VIN to see exactly how your vehicle was built.
If you've got the V6 and the Class III package, you've got a capable machine that can handle most weekend toys with ease. Just remember to account for your gear, keep an eye on your tongue weight, and give yourself plenty of stopping distance. With a little preparation, the 2017 ford explorer xlt tow capacity is more than enough to help you get the most out of your time off the clock.