Ford Flex Towing Capacity: How Much Weight Can It Pull?

If you’re in the market for a vehicle that can tow a trailer or camper, the Ford Flex is worth considering. This SUV has a respectable towing capacity that can handle most recreational towing needs. In this article, we’ll explore the Ford Flex towing capacity, engine options, and towing packages available.

The Ford Flex is a spacious and versatile SUV that is perfect for families or anyone who needs to transport a lot of gear. It has a distinctive boxy design that sets it apart from other SUVs on the market. The Flex has been in production since 2009 and has undergone several updates and revisions over the years. One of its most appealing features is its towing capacity, which makes it an excellent choice for anyone who needs to tow a trailer or camper.

When it comes to towing capacity, the Ford Flex is no slouch. Depending on the year and model, it can tow up to 4,500 pounds. However, to achieve this maximum towing capacity, you’ll need to have the right engine, axle configuration, and towing package. In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at what factors affect the Ford Flex towing capacity and how you can optimize it for your needs.

Key Takeaways

• The Ford Flex is a versatile SUV that can tow up to 4,500 pounds depending on the year and model.
• To achieve maximum towing capacity, you’ll need the right engine, axle configuration, and towing package.
• The Ford Flex is an excellent choice for anyone who needs to tow a trailer or camper, thanks to its spacious interior and ample towing capacity.

Ford Flex Overview

If you are in the market for a versatile SUV that can tow your trailer or boat, the Ford Flex might be the perfect fit for you. This crossover SUV offers a spacious interior, ample cargo space, and impressive towing capacity that makes it a great choice for families and adventurers alike.

The Ford Flex is a midsize SUV that has been in production since 2009. It features a unique boxy design that sets it apart from other SUVs on the market. The Flex can seat up to seven passengers comfortably and has a maximum cargo capacity of 83.2 cubic feet.

When it comes to towing, the Ford Flex has a lot to offer. Depending on the model year and whether a tow package was installed at the factory, the Flex can tow up to 4,500 pounds. This means you can easily tow a small boat, trailer, or camper without having to upgrade to a larger vehicle.

The Ford Flex comes with a range of features that make it a great choice for families. Some of the notable features include:

• Available all-wheel drive for improved handling and traction on slippery roads
• Available rear-seat entertainment system to keep your passengers entertained on long trips
• Available panoramic sunroof that lets in plenty of natural light and fresh air
• Available SYNC 3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility

Overall, the Ford Flex is a versatile and capable SUV that offers plenty of features and towing capacity. Whether you are planning a family road trip or need to tow your boat to the lake, the Ford Flex has you covered.

Ford Flex Towing Capacity Explained

When it comes to towing with your Ford Flex, it’s important to understand the towing capacity of your vehicle. Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight that your vehicle can safely tow. Exceeding this weight can put your safety and the safety of others on the road at risk.

The towing capacity of your Ford Flex can vary depending on the year and model of your vehicle. For example, the 2019 Ford Flex has a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 lbs when equipped with a Class III Trailer Tow Package. However, without this package, the towing capacity drops to 2,000 lbs.

It’s important to note that the towing capacity listed for your vehicle is based on a few factors, including the engine size, transmission type, and axle ratio. These factors can impact the overall towing capacity of your vehicle.

To ensure that you are towing safely, it’s important to not only know your vehicle’s towing capacity but also the weight of the trailer or object that you are towing. You should also make sure that your trailer is properly equipped with the necessary safety features, such as brakes and lights.

Overall, understanding your Ford Flex’s towing capacity is crucial for safe and effective towing. Be sure to consult your vehicle’s owner manual or speak with a trusted mechanic to ensure that you are towing within the recommended capacity for your vehicle.

Engine Options and Performance

If you’re looking for a vehicle that can tow heavy loads, the Ford Flex is a great option. One of the most important factors to consider when towing is the engine. The Ford Flex has two engine options that offer different levels of performance: the 3.5L V6 engine and the EcoBoost engine.

3.5L V6 Engine

The 3.5L V6 engine is the standard engine for the Ford Flex. It has a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 lbs. when properly equipped. This engine produces 287 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the 3.5L V6 engine gets an estimated 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. This engine is a good choice if you plan on doing occasional towing.

EcoBoost Engine

The EcoBoost engine is an optional upgrade for the Ford Flex. It is a turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine that produces 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This engine has a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 lbs. when properly equipped.

The EcoBoost engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. This engine provides a more powerful and responsive driving experience. It is a good choice if you plan on doing frequent towing or if you want a more sporty driving experience.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the EcoBoost engine gets an estimated 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. While this is slightly lower than the standard 3.5L V6 engine, it is still a respectable fuel economy for a vehicle of this size and power.

Overall, the Ford Flex offers two engine options that provide good performance and towing capabilities. The standard 3.5L V6 engine is a good choice for occasional towing, while the EcoBoost engine is a better choice for frequent towing or a more sporty driving experience.

Towing Packages

When it comes to towing with your Ford Flex, having the right towing package can make all the difference. There are two main types of towing packages available for the Ford Flex: the Class III Tow Package and the Light-Duty Towing Package. Here’s what you need to know about each.

Class III Tow Package

If you plan on towing heavier loads, the Class III Tow Package is the way to go. This package includes a number of features that make towing easier and safer, including:

• Trailer sway control: This system helps keep your trailer stable by automatically applying the brakes or reducing engine power when it detects sway.

• Upgraded cooling system: Towing puts extra strain on your engine, so this package includes an upgraded radiator and cooling fan to help keep your engine from overheating.

• Class III hitch receiver: This receiver is designed to handle heavier loads and provides a more secure connection between your vehicle and trailer.

To get the most out of your Class III Tow Package, you’ll also need a weight-distributing hitch. This type of hitch helps distribute the weight of your trailer more evenly, which can improve stability and handling.

Light-Duty Towing

If you don’t plan on towing heavy loads, the Light-Duty Towing Package may be sufficient for your needs. This package includes:

• Trailer sway control: This system helps keep your trailer stable by automatically applying the brakes or reducing engine power when it detects sway.

• Class II hitch receiver: This receiver is designed for lighter loads and provides a secure connection between your vehicle and trailer.

It’s important to note that the Light-Duty Towing Package has a lower towing capacity than the Class III Tow Package. If you plan on towing heavier loads in the future, you may want to consider upgrading to the Class III Tow Package.

No matter which towing package you choose, it’s important to always follow safe towing practices. This includes making sure your trailer is properly loaded, checking your brakes and lights before hitting the road, and driving at a safe speed. With the right towing package and a little bit of caution, you can safely tow with your Ford Flex.

Vehicle Specifications

When it comes to towing with your Ford Flex, it’s important to know the vehicle specifications. Here are some key details to keep in mind:

Dimensions

The Ford Flex has a length of 201.8 inches, a width of 75.9 inches, and a height of 68.0 inches. The wheelbase is 117.9 inches, and the ground clearance is 5.9 inches. These dimensions can impact how easy it is to maneuver your Flex when towing.

Weight

The weight of your Flex is also important to consider. The curb weight of a 2019 Ford Flex ranges from 4,439 to 4,939 pounds, depending on the trim level and drivetrain. The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) for the Flex is 6,150 pounds. This includes the weight of the vehicle, passengers, cargo, and tongue weight of any trailer being towed.

Cargo Space

The cargo space of your Flex can also impact towing. With all seats in place, the Flex has 20 cubic feet of cargo space. When the third row is folded down, this increases to 43.2 cubic feet. And when both the second and third rows are folded down, the Flex has a maximum cargo capacity of 83.2 cubic feet. This space can be used to store additional gear or supplies needed for your towing trip.

VIN

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a unique identifier for your Flex. It can be found on the driver’s side dashboard, visible through the windshield. This number is important to have on hand when registering your vehicle or purchasing towing equipment.

Range

The range of your Flex can also impact towing. The Flex has a fuel tank capacity of 18.6 gallons and an estimated fuel economy of 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. This means that with a full tank of gas, you can travel up to 427 miles before needing to refuel.

Width

The width of your Flex can impact towing, especially when passing through narrow spaces or tight turns. The width of the Flex is 75.9 inches, which is wider than some other SUVs on the market.

Curb Weight

The curb weight of your Flex is the weight of the vehicle without any passengers or cargo. This weight can impact towing capacity, as it is included in the GVWR. The curb weight of a 2019 Ford Flex ranges from 4,439 to 4,939 pounds, depending on the trim level and drivetrain.

Overall, knowing the vehicle specifications of your Ford Flex can help you make informed decisions when it comes to towing. Keep these details in mind as you plan your next towing trip.

Towing Accessories

When it comes to towing with your Ford Flex, having the right accessories can make all the difference. Here are some of the most important towing accessories you should consider:

• Weight Distributing Hitch: A weight distributing hitch can help distribute the weight of your trailer more evenly across your vehicle, which can improve stability and control while towing. Make sure to choose a hitch that is compatible with your Ford Flex’s towing capacity.

• Wiring Harness: A wiring harness is essential for connecting your trailer’s lights to your vehicle’s electrical system. Make sure to choose a wiring harness that is compatible with your Ford Flex’s wiring and towing capacity.

• Hitch Receiver: A hitch receiver is the part of your vehicle that connects to your trailer’s hitch. Make sure to choose a hitch receiver that is compatible with your Ford Flex’s towing capacity and hitch size.

• Engine Oil Cooler: Towing can put extra strain on your engine, which can cause it to overheat. An engine oil cooler can help keep your engine running smoothly by regulating its temperature. Make sure to choose an oil cooler that is compatible with your Ford Flex’s engine and towing capacity.

• Accessories: There are a variety of other towing accessories that can help make your towing experience safer and more convenient, such as trailer brakes, sway control systems, and towing mirrors. Make sure to choose accessories that are compatible with your Ford Flex’s towing capacity and your specific towing needs.

Overall, investing in the right towing accessories can help you tow with confidence and peace of mind. Make sure to choose accessories that are compatible with your Ford Flex’s towing capacity and your specific towing needs.

Payload and Carrying Capacity

When it comes to towing with the Ford Flex, it’s important to consider not only the towing capacity but also the payload and carrying capacity. Payload refers to the weight of the cargo and passengers that the vehicle can carry in addition to the weight of the vehicle itself. Carrying capacity, on the other hand, refers to the maximum weight that the vehicle can carry, including cargo and passengers.

The 2019 Ford Flex has a payload capacity of up to 1,463 pounds. This means that you can load up the vehicle with passengers and cargo up to this weight limit. Keep in mind that this weight includes the weight of the passengers, so you’ll want to make sure to factor that in when calculating your payload.

In addition to payload capacity, the Ford Flex also has a generous amount of cargo space. With all seats in place, the Flex has 20 cubic feet of cargo space. If you fold down the third-row seats, this expands to 43.2 cubic feet, and folding down both the second and third-row seats gives you a maximum cargo capacity of 83.2 cubic feet.

When it comes to carrying capacity, the Ford Flex has a maximum weight capacity of 5,970 pounds. This means that the weight of the vehicle, passengers, and cargo cannot exceed this limit. Keep in mind that this weight limit includes the weight of any towing equipment as well.

Overall, the Ford Flex has a generous payload and carrying capacity, making it a great choice for those who need to transport both passengers and cargo. With its spacious interior and towing capabilities, the Flex is a versatile vehicle that can handle a wide range of tasks.

Comparisons and Alternatives

When it comes to towing capacity, the Ford Flex is a great option for those who need to haul a heavy load. However, it’s always good to compare and consider other alternatives before making a final decision. Here are some comparisons and alternatives to the Ford Flex:

Ford Explorer vs. Ford Flex

If you’re looking for a vehicle with similar towing capacity to the Ford Flex, the Ford Explorer is a great alternative. The 2023 Ford Explorer has a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 pounds, which is more than the Ford Flex’s 4,500-pound towing capacity. Additionally, the Ford Explorer has more cargo space than the Ford Flex, making it a great option for those who need to haul both passengers and cargo.

Honda Pilot vs. Ford Flex

The Honda Pilot is another alternative to the Ford Flex. The 2023 Honda Pilot has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, which is slightly less than the Ford Flex’s towing capacity. However, the Honda Pilot has more standard safety features than the Ford Flex, including adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Additionally, the Honda Pilot has more third-row legroom than the Ford Flex, making it a great option for families with children.

Chevrolet Traverse vs. Ford Flex

The Chevrolet Traverse is another alternative to the Ford Flex. The 2023 Chevrolet Traverse has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, which is slightly less than the Ford Flex’s towing capacity. However, the Chevrolet Traverse has more cargo space than the Ford Flex, making it a great option for those who need to haul a lot of cargo. Additionally, the Chevrolet Traverse has more standard features than the Ford Flex, including a rearview camera and a 7-inch touchscreen display.

Other Alternatives

If you’re looking for a vehicle with even higher towing capacity than the Ford Flex, there are several options available. The Ford Expedition has a maximum towing capacity of 9,300 pounds, making it a great option for those who need to haul heavy loads. Additionally, the Chevrolet Tahoe has a maximum towing capacity of 8,400 pounds, making it another great option for those who need to haul heavy loads.

Overall, the Ford Flex is a great option for those who need to haul a heavy load. However, it’s always good to compare and consider other alternatives before making a final decision. By comparing the Ford Flex to other vehicles with similar towing capacity, you can find the vehicle that best fits your needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Ford Flex is a versatile vehicle with a respectable towing capacity. Whether you’re towing a small trailer or a larger load, the Flex has you covered. With a standard towing capacity of 4,500 lbs. from 2012-2019, the Flex is a great option for those who need to tow smaller loads. However, if you need to tow heavier loads, you may need a class III tow package and/or a weight distributing hitch.

It’s important to keep in mind that the actual towing capacity of your Ford Flex will depend on many factors, including the engine power, the weight of the vehicle, and the weight of the load. The Ford Flex comes with two engine options: a standard V6 engine and an available turbocharged V6 engine. The engine power of a vehicle plays a crucial role in determining its towing capacity.

When it comes to towing with your Ford Flex, it’s important to follow all safety guidelines and recommendations. Make sure that you have the proper hitch ball, ball mounting, weight-distributing equipment, and other appropriate equipment to tow both the trailer and its cargo load. Always check the owner’s manual for specific towing recommendations and guidelines.

Overall, the Ford Flex is a great option for those who need a vehicle with a respectable towing capacity. With its versatile engine options and towing capabilities, the Flex is a great choice for those who need to tow smaller loads or heavier loads with the proper equipment.