How to Pick Out (and Install) a Ford Trailer Hitch
Most Ford trucks come with a towing hitch ready to go, but you can also purchase a Ford towing package or an aftermarket hitch.
Written by Liz Jenson
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
It probably won’t surprise you that there are a lot of different trailer hitch options when it comes to Ford vehicles. Many of Ford’s models come with a trailer hitch receiver, including all F-150 models, the powerful Super Duty, and the more family-friendly Edge.
If you’re planning to use your Ford for towing, you have lots of options. Most Ford trucks come with a standard towing hitch installed already, or you can choose one of Ford’s towing packages or install a hitch yourself.
Lots of Ford vehicles have hitch receivers, but finding the right hitch can be confusing. Which models need which hitch? How do you install a new hitch? How much will it cost?
That’s why
Jerry
, the super app to help drivers save on car insurance
, has created this helpful guide to Ford trailer hitches. We’ll teach you how to find a vehicle with a hitch receiver, how to choose the right hitch for that vehicle, and even how to install that hitch yourself! And if that’s not enough, we’ll give you tips on how to use our
trusted car insurance super app
to find the Ford car insurance
that’s right for you.Which Ford models come with a trailer hitch?
While you will need to opt for a towing package if you want certain Ford vehicles to come with a hitch ready to go, many of the 2022 Ford models come with a trailer hitch receiver, meaning there is a place for a hitch to be installed.
The 2022 Ford models that come with a trailer hitch receiver are laid out in the table below:
Model | Maximum towing capacity | Trailer hitch price | Ball mount price |
|---|---|---|---|
11,300 lbs | $169.95 | $21.95 | |
2022 Maverick | 2,000 lbs | $274.95 | $21.95 |
2022 Ranger | 3,500 lbs | $199.95 | $21.95 |
6,500 lbs | $169.95 | $21.95 | |
2022 Super Duty | 20,000 lbs | $250 to $800 | $88.00 |
4,500 lbs | $144.95 | $21.95 | |
2022 Explorer | 5,600 lbs | $214.95 | $21.95 |
2022 EcoSport | 2,000 lbs | $162.51 | $21.95 |
3,500 lbs | $199.95 | $21.95 | |
2022 Expedition | 6,300 lbs | $177.99 | $29.99 |
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How to pick a Ford trailer hitch
If you do get a Ford with a hitch receiver, your next step will be picking out the right hitch for your vehicle. There are a lot of options out there, particularly if you look beyond the official Ford add-ons, but it’s important to consider your needs and the needs of your car before making your final decision.
So, which Ford trailer hitch is right for you? The answer to this question will vary from person to person, but there are some factors that everyone should consider when picking out a hitch:
- What is your car’s maximum towing capacity?
- What is your trailer class?
- What size is your hitch receiver?
- How much money are you willing to spend on a new hitch?
Let’s break down these three factors to help you better understand your choices when purchasing a new hitch.
Your car’s towing capacity
You can find your car’s towing capacity by checking the table above or by taking a look in your owner’s manual. Make sure the hitch you’re looking for has similar capabilities to your car.
An intro to trailer classes
You’ll also need to be sure to buy a hitch for the appropriate trailer class. Trailers are placed in one of five classes based on weight:
- Class I: up to 2,000 lbs
- Class II: 2,000 to 3,500 lbs
- Class III: 3,500 to 8,000 lbs
- Class IV: 5,000 to 12,000 lbs
- Class V: 10,000 to 25,000 lbs
Your hitch receiver size
There are four different hitch size options: 1 ¼ inches, 2 inches, 2 ½ inches, and 3 inches. You can check your vehicle’s hitch sizing via your owner’s manual.
Finding the right price point
As you may have guessed, different hitches have very different prices. Oftentimes, you’ll need to spend a little more on a hitch if you want it to have certain towing capabilities or features. Once you know your vehicle’s towing capacity and your weight requirements, you’ll be able to compare prices and zero in on the perfect hitch for you.
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Different models and hitch options
You can either purchase a hitch from Ford as a separate part, or you can opt to purchase an aftermarket hitch for your vehicles. The options can be a little overwhelming, but here are some of the best rated hitch for some of the most popular Ford models:
The best hitch for the Ford Ranger
The Ford Ranger has a two inch hitch receiver for a Class III hitch, so most people who choose to purchase an aftermarket hitch try to find one with the same classifications. Be sure to take a look at Ford’s hitch options as well as the aftermarket.
The best hitch for the Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer has a two inch hitch receiver for a Class III hitch, so you’ll find that most aftermarket parts share those specifications. Here are some of your best options.
- Ford option:Ford Explorer Trailer Hitch
The best hitch for the Ford F-150
Typically, the Ford F-150 comes equipped with a two inch hitch receiver for a Class IV trailer hitch. The top recommended hitch for the F-150 is the Curt Class 4 Trailer Hitch, but Ford still offers an option for you.
Ford hitches vs aftermarket hitches
Generally speaking, if you want a hitch that is perfectly suited to your car or truck, it’s a good idea to get a Ford hitch. If you buy your car new, you can purchase a towing package when you purchase your vehicle. This will typically cost you between $140 and $300, with some outliers like the Ford Super Duty hitch being a little more expensive.
If you do decide to purchase an aftermarket hitch, however, you’ll probably pay a little less than you would pay for a factory-made hitch. Aftermarket hitches typically range from about $100 to about $250, making them the more economical option.
Installing a hitch on your Ford
While it may seem like a daunting task at first, you can actually install a hitch at home if you’d like. Of course, you can also always visit a professional if you want to make sure that the job was done right.
For a professional installation, head to your local Ford dealer, the garage that usually does your Ford maintenance, or even to U-Haul. You’ll typically pay between $100 and $250 for labor, plus the cost of the trailer hitch equipment. It all comes out to an average installation cost between $300 and $600, with variations based on model, location, and parts.
If you want to install your Ford trailer hitch yourself, first check that you have all of the proper tools. You’ll need:
- A socket set
- A ratchet and ratchet extension
- A swivel socket
- A torque wrench
- Work gloves, safety glasses, and a work light
When you open your new hitch, it should include some instructions for installation. It’s important that you follow those directions carefully. It’s also a good idea to keep the following tips in mind:
- Grab a friend to help you out. Some of the hitch parts can be extremely heavy, so it’s a good idea to have a spotter or someone to help you carry things.
- Don’t forget to torque all bolts to the specifications given in your instructions. While this might seem like a small detail, it’s extremely important for hitch safety.
Upgrading your insurance for your Ford
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FAQs
Do all Ford trucks come with a hitch?
For the most part, yes, you’ll be able to attach a hitch to your Ford. All of the trucks in Ford’s 2022 lineup come with a hitch receiver, including the Ford F-150 Lightning electric truck.
Do I need a hitch on my Ford truck?
If you need to tow anything behind your truck, you’ll want to purchase a hitch. This could include things like a boat, equipment, furniture, and other large items that might not fit in the bed of your truck.
Is it illegal to drive around with a hitch?
Not at all! Even if you haven’t attached a trailer to your vehicle, it’s perfectly legal to drive your vehicle normally with a hitch attached.
