Boats to Campers: What Can Your Ford Maverick Actually Tow?

The Ford Maverick has quickly become a popular choice for those seeking a versatile and efficient compact pickup truck. One of its most appealing features is its impressive towing capacity, especially considering its size. But what exactly can you tow with a Ford Maverick?

The Ford Maverick’s Towing Specifications

Before we delve into specific towing scenarios, it’s crucial to understand the Ford Maverick towing specifications. The Ford Maverick towing capacity varies depending on the engine and configuration:

Standard 2.5L Hybrid Engine: Up to 907 kg (2,000 lbs) towing capacity
Optional 2.0L EcoBoost Engine: Up to 1,814 kg (4,000 lbs) towing capacity with the 4K Tow Package

It’s important to note that these are maximum ratings, and the actual safe towing weight can be lower depending on factors such as passenger weight, cargo, and additional equipment in the truck.

Key factors to consider:

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The maximum weight of the fully-loaded vehicle, including passengers, cargo, and the tongue weight of the trailer.
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): The maximum weight of the fully-loaded vehicle plus the weight of the fully loaded trailer.
Tongue Weight: The downward force that the trailer tongue exerts on the hitch. This should typically be 10-15% of the total trailer weight.

Always consult your owner’s manual and consider having your vehicle inspected by a professional if you’re unsure about its towing capabilities.

Small Boats and Personal Watercraft: Perfect for Weekend Adventures

The Ford Maverick’s towing capacity makes it an excellent choice for water enthusiasts looking to transport small boats and personal watercraft.

Suitable watercraft for towing:

Jon Boats: These lightweight, flat-bottomed boats typically weigh between 100-350 kg (220-770 lbs) without the trailer, making them easily towable.
Canoes and Kayaks: While these can often be transported on roof racks, larger canoes or multiple kayaks on a small trailer are well within the capabilities of this small truck.
Personal Watercraft (Jet Skis): Most personal watercraft weigh between 320-500 kg (700-1,100 lbs). With a trailer, this is comfortably within the towing range.
Small Fishing Boats: Many fishing boats under 5 meters (16 feet) in length, along with their trailers, fall within the 907-1,814 kg (2,000-4,000 lbs) range, depending on your Ford pickups configuration.

When towing watercraft, remember to account for the weight of the trailer, any gear or equipment, and the boat’s fuel. Also, consider the added challenges of launching and retrieving a boat at a ramp, which may require practice and skill.

Compact Campers and Teardrop Trailers: Exploring the Great Outdoors

For outdoor enthusiasts, the ability to tow a camper or trailer opens up a world of possibilities. The Ford Maverick can handle a variety of compact campers and trailers, making it a great choice for weekend getaways or extended road trips.

Suitable campers and trailers:

Teardrop Trailers: These compact, aerodynamic trailers typically weigh between 590-1,130 kg (1,300-2,500 lbs), making them ideal for this Ford truck, even with the standard hybrid engine.
Pop-up Campers: Many pop-up campers weigh between 680-1,360 kg (1,500-3,000 lbs) when loaded, fitting comfortably within the towing range.
Small Travel Trailers: With the 4K Tow Package, this small pickup truck can handle many small travel trailers under 5.5 meters (18 feet) in length, which typically weigh between 1,360-1,810 kg (3,000-4,000 lbs) when fully loaded.
Truck Bed Campers: While not technically towed, it’s worth mentioning that some ultra-light truck bed campers can be used with the Maverick, provided they don’t exceed the truck’s payload capacity.

When choosing a camper or trailer, pay close attention to its dry weight (weight without gear, water, or propane) and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). Ensure that the fully loaded weight, including all your gear and supplies, stays well within your Ford truck’s towing capacity.

Utility Trailers: Enhancing Your Maverick’s Versatility

One of the most practical applications of towing capacity is the ability to pull utility trailers. This significantly expands the truck’s cargo-carrying capabilities, making it useful for a wide range of tasks.

Common utility trailer uses:

Moving and Hauling: Small to medium-sized utility trailers are perfect for moving furniture, appliances, or large quantities of boxes.
Landscaping and Yard Work: Trailers can transport lawnmowers, mulch, plants, and other landscaping materials.
Home Improvement Projects: Haul building materials, tools, and debris for renovation or construction projects.
Small Business Use: Ideal for contractors, mobile detailers, or any small business that requires transporting equipment and supplies.

Utility trailer considerations:

Single-axle trailers are typically lighter and easier to maneuver, making them a good match.
Common utility trailer sizes that work well with the Maverick include 1.2 x 2.4 m (4 x 8 ft), 1.5 x 3 m (5 x 10 ft), and 1.8 x 3.6 m (6 x 12 ft) models.
Always check the trailer’s empty weight and add the weight of your intended cargo to ensure you’re within your towing capacity.
Consider investing in a trailer with a mesh ramp for easier loading and unloading of wheeled equipment.

Motorcycles and ATVs: Bringing the Toys Along

For motorsport enthusiasts, the Ford Maverick’s towing capacity allows for the transportation of motorcycles, dirt bikes, ATVs, and even some small side-by-sides.

Towing considerations for motorsports:

Motorcycles: Most motorcycles weigh between 125-400 kg (275-880 lbs). With a proper motorcycle trailer, which typically weighs around 320-450 kg (700-1,000 lbs), you can easily tow one or two motorcycles with your Maverick.
Dirt Bikes: Lighter than road motorcycles, dirt bikes usually weigh 70-150 kg (150-330 lbs) each. This allows for towing multiple dirt bikes on a suitable trailer.
ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles): The average ATV weighs between 220-450 kg (485-990 lbs). Depending on your configuration, you could tow one or two ATVs on an appropriate trailer.
Side-by-Sides: Some smaller side-by-sides weigh around 540-725 kg (1,200-1,600 lbs). With the 4K Tow Package, your Maverick could handle towing a single side-by-side, but be sure to account for the trailer weight as well.

When towing motorsports equipment:

Invest in a trailer specifically designed for motorcycles or ATVs, with built-in tie-down points and ramps for easy loading.
Ensure all vehicles are properly secured with high-quality tie-down straps or wheel chocks.
Be mindful of weight distribution, keeping the heaviest items over the trailer axles.
Practice loading and unloading in a safe area before your first trip.

What to Avoid When Towing with Your Maverick

While the Ford Maverick is capable of towing a wide variety of trailers and equipment, it’s important to understand its limitations to ensure safe and responsible towing.

Items to avoid or approach with caution:

Large Travel Trailers: Most travel trailers over 5.5 meters (18 feet) in length will exceed the Maverick’s towing capacity, especially when fully loaded with gear and supplies.
Full-sized Boats: Larger boats, such as many pontoon boats or boats over 5.5 meters (18 feet), are likely too heavy for this truck, especially when you factor in the weight of the trailer.
Horse Trailers: Even small horse trailers, when loaded, often exceed 2,270 kg (5,000 lbs), putting them beyond the Maverick’s capabilities.
Car Trailers: Most car trailers, especially when loaded with a vehicle, will be too heavy for the Maverick to safely tow.
Large Equipment Trailers: Trailers designed for heavy machinery or multiple pieces of large equipment are generally not suitable for the Maverick.

Safety considerations when towing near capacity:

Always err on the side of caution. It’s better to be well under your maximum towing capacity than to push the limits.
Consider the effects of towing on your vehicle’s handling, braking distance, and fuel efficiency.
Be aware of your surroundings, especially in challenging conditions like steep grades or strong crosswinds.
Regularly inspect your hitch, trailer connections, and tire pressure before and during your journey.
Adjust your driving style when towing, allowing for more time to accelerate, brake, and change lanes.

Enjoy Safe, Enjoyable and Hassle-Free Towing

The Ford Maverick’s towing capacity, ranging from 907 kg (2,000 lbs) to 1,814 kg (4,000 lbs) depending on configuration, opens up a world of possibilities for owners. From small boats and personal watercraft to compact campers, utility trailers, and motorsports equipment, this compact pickup truck proves to be a versatile and capable towing vehicle.

However, it’s crucial to always prioritize safety and stay within your vehicle’s specified limits. Proper planning, careful loading, and responsible driving practices will ensure that your towing experiences with the Ford Maverick are safe, enjoyable, and hassle-free.

Remember, the key to successful towing is not just about what you can tow, but what you can tow safely and comfortably. By understanding your Maverick’s capabilities and limitations, you can make the most of this compact yet mighty pickup truck, enhancing your work, play, and everything in between.