Overall Towing Capacity of a 2008 Ford Taurus X

Question:

2008 Ford Taurus X. The hitch lists a tow capacity of 3,500 lbs, but the car manual lists only 2,000. Is it possible to have the Taurus X tow more than 2,000 lbs?

asked by: John R

Expert Reply:

When determining the overall towing capacity of a vehicle you should always go with the lowest rated component. If the owners manual in your 2008 Ford Taurus X says 2,000 lbs is the limit for your vehicle then that is the most amount of weight you can tow with your vehicle.

This Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver # 75299 that you referenced has been tested to handle 3,500 lbs, but that does not mean your vehicle will be able to tow more than the figure listed in your owners manual if you were to use this hitch.

I attached installation instructions and a video of this product being installed onto a similar vehicle for you to check out.

You may be interested in the following products to complete your setup:

Tow Ready Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring # C56055 (instructions and installation video attached)
etrailer Ball Mounts # EBMK4

expert reply by: Jameson C