2026 Ford Maverick Towing Guide (What to Buy, What to Avoid)
Maverick towing success isn’t about hype—it’s about buying the right towing hardware for the trailer you actually pull. This guide breaks down the two towing equipment levels (basic hitch vs 4K Tow Package), what each includes, and the questions you should answer before you commit.
If you’re still deciding AWD vs FWD and overall configuration, start here first: 2026 Maverick Specs & Configurations. For inventory and shopping support in one place, visit the Ford Maverick hub.
Step 1: Identify which towing “level” you need
For 2026, the order guide makes it clear that Maverick towing equipment generally lands in one of two setups: a basic hitch for light trailers, or the full 4K Tow Package hardware for higher towing needs. The right choice depends on your trailer’s loaded weight, not the empty brochure number.
- Light utility trailer, occasional use: basic 2K hitch can be appropriate (depending on your actual load).
- Brake-equipped trailers or frequent towing: look for the 4K Tow Package because it adds a brake controller and higher-grade hitch/wiring.
- If you’re uncertain: it’s usually better to buy the right hardware now than “try to upgrade later.”
2K Trailer Hitch (4-pin): what it’s for
The 2K hitch setup is a light-duty tow solution. In the order guide, it’s shown as a 2K Trailer Hitch Receiver with a 4-pin connector on various configurations. This setup is best for simpler trailers where you don’t need a brake controller integrated into the truck.
- Wiring: 4-pin connector (typical for trailer lights on lighter trailers).
- Best for: small utility trailers and light loads.
- Important restriction: the order guide notes the 2K hitch is not available with the 4K Tow Package—they’re different equipment paths.
4K Tow Package: what it includes (and why it matters)
The 4K Tow Package is the towing setup most serious Maverick towers should focus on because it includes the critical hardware buyers try to add later. In the 2026 order guide, the 4K Tow Package includes:
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Trailer Hitch (Class III) 2” receiver with 4-pin and 7-pin connector
- Upgraded cooling components (engine-dependent): higher capacity radiator for 2.0L gas; transmission oil cooler for 2.5L Hybrid; upgraded cooling fan
- Conventional 17” spare tire (215/70R17)
There’s also a practical ordering detail: on XL and XLT, the 4K Tow Package requires Ford Co-Pilot360. That matters if you’re trying to build a value trim with towing hardware.
What to confirm on the exact truck before you buy
If you want a specific answer (not “it depends”), this is the checklist that prevents towing regret. Confirm these on the actual truck you’re buying—window sticker + physical walkaround:
- Do you have the trailer brake controller? If your trailer has brakes, you generally want this integrated.
- Do you have a 7-pin connector? The 4K package includes 4-pin + 7-pin; the basic hitch is typically 4-pin only.
- Hitch class and receiver size: confirm Class III 2” receiver if you’re planning heavier towing.
- Payload sticker: towing isn’t only tow rating—payload limits tongue weight + people + gear.
- Trailer type reality: loaded trailer weight (not empty) and how often you tow in wind/winter.
Quick Overview
| Best for 2K hitch | Light towing, simpler trailers, occasional use |
| Best for 4K Tow Package | Frequent towing, brake-equipped trailers, higher confidence setup |
| Most important check | Brake controller + 7-pin connector + payload sticker on the exact truck |
How to choose the right Maverick for your trailer
- Write down your trailer type (utility, small camper, equipment, etc.).
- Estimate loaded trailer weight (cargo + fuel + water + tools + everything you actually carry).
- Decide if you need brakes (many trailers do—if yes, prioritize a truck with the brake controller).
- Choose towing hardware level: 2K hitch vs 4K Tow Package.
- Confirm payload sticker so tongue weight + passengers + bed cargo stays realistic.
FAQ
What’s the fastest way to tell if a Maverick has the 4K Tow Package?
Can I order the 2K hitch and the 4K Tow Package together?
Does towing depend on trim (XL vs XLT vs Lariat)?
Why do payload and towing feel connected?
Conclusion
In my experience, Maverick towing goes well when buyers shop the hardware first: brake controller, 7-pin, hitch class, and the right cooling support. If you buy the correct towing equipment up front, the truck feels calmer and more predictable—especially in South Dakota wind and winter conditions.
About the Author: Lexy Tabbert works with South Dakota and North Dakota buyers who need practical answers on towing setups, winter capability, and long-term ownership. Her process is simple: match the towing hardware and payload reality to the trailer you actually use, then choose trim and features with confidence.
