When it comes to finding the ideal small van for your towing needs, the Ford Transit Connect stands out despite its compact size. It's a van that packs a punch when it comes to towing capabilities and in this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the Ford Transit Connect maximum towing capacity, its tow bar options and how to tow it.
The towing capacity of the Ford Transit Connect is maximum the van can safely tow but the Ford Transit Connect towing weight varies depending on the model year and specific configuration of the van.
For most model years, the Ford Transit Connect has a towing capacity ranging from 1200kg to 1500kg.
This capacity is sufficient for towing small trailers, boats, or even a small camper.
Read our guide to the Ford Transit Connect dimensions
It’s important to note that the towing capacity of the Ford Transit Connect can be influenced by several factors, including the engine type, transmission, and optional towing packages.
For instance, models equipped with the 2-litre engine tend to have higher towing capacities compared to those with smaller engines. Additionally, opting for a towing package can enhance the van’s towing capabilities by including features such as a trailer sway control system.
When considering the towing capacity of a Ford Transit Connect, it’s essential to check the specific specifications of the model you are interested in. This information can typically be found in the owner’s manual or by consulting with a Ford dealership.
Understanding the exact towing capacity of your Transit Connect will ensure that you can safely and effectively tow the loads you need.
One of the most common questions potential buyers have about the Ford Transit Connect is whether it can tow a trailer. The answer is a resounding yes.
The Transit Connect can tow an unbraked trailer of up to 750kg, and a braked trailer of up to 1,500kg.
What's the difference between a braked and unbraked trailer?
When towing a trailer with the Ford Transit Connect, it’s crucial to ensure that the trailer’s weight does not exceed the van’s maximum towing capacity.
Overloading the trailer can not only lead to reduced performance, but also increased wear and tear on the vehicle and be potential dangerous.
To tow a trailer with the Transit Connect, you’ll need to ensure that your van is equipped with the necessary towing equipment including a tow bar, wiring harness, and hitch.
These components are essential for securely attaching the trailer to the van and ensuring that the trailer’s lights function correctly. If your Transit Connect is not already equipped with a tow bar, you can have them installed at a Ford dealership or local garage.
You'll need to know the gross train weight (GTW) of the Ford Transit Connect in order to tow safely.
The GTW refers to the total combined weight of the vehicle, the trailer, and all the cargo and passengers carried in both. Understanding the GTW is crucial for ensuring that the Transit Connect operates within safe limits when towing.
For the Ford Transit Connect, the GTW varies depending on the specific model and configuration. Generally, the GTW for the Transit Connect ranges from approximately 1950kg (4,300 lbs) to 2850kg (6,300 lbs).
This means that the combined weight of the van, trailer, cargo, and passengers should not exceed this limit.
To calculate the GTW for your Transit Connect, you’ll need to know the curb weight of the van, the weight of the trailer, and the weight of all cargo and passengers.
You can find out more about the Transit Connect van weights in our guide.
The towing capacity of the Ford Transit Connect has evolved over the years, with each model year offering slight variations in capabilities.
Let’s take a closer look at the towing capacities of the Transit Connect across different model years.
For the earlier model years, such as the 2010-2013 range, the Ford Transit Connect had a maximum towing capacity of around 1200kg (2,650 pounds).
From 2014 onward, the Transit Connect received several updates, including improvements in engine performance and towing capabilities with a towing capacity of up to 1500kg (3,300 pounds). These models were available with a choice of engines, including a 1.6L EcoBoost engine that provided enhanced performance and efficiency. Additionally, the introduction of advanced towing features, such as trailer sway control, further improved the towing experience.
In more recent model years, such as the 2019 and newer models, the Ford Transit Connect continues to offer impressive towing capabilities. These models can all tow 1500kg.
One of the key considerations for potential buyers is whether the Ford Transit Connect comes with a standard tow bar.
The tow bar is a crucial component for towing, as it provides the necessary connection between the van and the trailer.
In most cases, the Ford Transit Connect does not come with a standard tow bar. Instead, the tow bar is typically offered as part of an optional towing package. This package may include additional towing-related features, such as a wiring harness and trailer sway control system. By opting for the towing package, buyers can ensure that their Transit Connect is capable of towing.
For those who purchase a Transit Connect without the towing package, it’s possible to have a tow bar installed afterward. Many Ford dealerships and reputable garages offer tow bar installation services.
When having a tow bar installed, it’s important to ensure that it is compatible with the Transit Connect and meets the necessary safety standards. A professional installation will ensure that the tow bar is securely attached and safe.
The Ford Transit Connect has a dedicated towing eye with the mounting point. The Transit Connect towing eye is located in the front of the grille, behind a small plastic cover.
First you need to get the towing eye which can be found under the passenger seat of the Transit Connect, where it is usually bolted to the floor.
You then need to connect the towing eye to the front of the van behind that small circular cover to the side of the numberplate and next to the headlight.
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