How the 2027 Ford Super Duty Pro Trailer Hitch Assist Simplifies Livestock Trailer Hookups For livestock producers and grain growers across Dickinson County and Geary County, hitching up a heavy stock rig or gooseneck trailer has historically been a tedious, two-person chore or a multi-try solo headache. The 2027 Ford Super Duty Pro Trailer Hitch Assist helps reduce the guesswork and frustration of trailer coupling by utilizing machine-learning computer vision, rear-facing optical cameras, and ultrasonic radar sensors to help guide the truck into alignment with the trailer coupler. Single-operator ranchers working near Junction City no longer need to jump out of the cab five times to check ball alignment, nor do they need a dedicated spotter when hauling cattle out to summer pasture in the Flint Hills. By simply holding down the hitch assist button located on the center console, the Super Duty calculates the trajectory, maneuvers the rear axle, and stops the hitch ball directly under the trailer coupler receiver with millimeter precision. Sensor Technology Behind Hands-Free Cattle Trailer Alignment in Central Kansas At the core of Ford's industry-exclusive Pro Trailer Hitch Assist is an advanced sensor fusion pipeline. The high-definition tailgate camera works in tandem with short-range rear corner radar modules to create a real-time 3D spatial map behind the rear bumper. Sophisticated image-processing algorithms continuously scan for the geometric shape of conventional ball hitches and gooseneck couplers, tracking distance, angle, and height elevation simultaneously. Agricultural environments present tough visual challenges, from dusty barnyards to low-light morning setups before livestock sales. Ford engineers calibrated the visual optics and infrared sensor spectrum so the system reliably locks onto coupler targets even when mud, light rain, or heavy farm dust obscures partial camera views. Whether you are hitching up inside a dimly lit hay barn or out in an unpaved prairie pen, the system maintains crisp detection capabilities. Step-by-Step Guide: Operating Pro Trailer Hitch Assist with Gooseneck and Conventional Stock Rigs Operating the system is intuitive for farmers and fleet operators alike: 1. Position the Vehicle: Reverse your Super Duty to within approximately 20 feet of your livestock trailer coupler. 2. Activate the System: Press and hold the Pro Trailer Hitch Assist button on the center console dashboard. 3. Select Trailer Type: On the SYNC 4 12-inch touchscreen, tap your target coupler type (bumper-pull ball hitch or gooseneck configuration). 4. Hold the Command Button: Keep your finger on the dashboard button while releasing the steering wheel, foot brake, and accelerator. The vehicle will independently steer, shift gears, and control speed. Once the truck comes to a full stop directly underneath the receiver, double-check your height clearance on the bed camera before cranking down the coupler lock ring and attaching your safety chains. Does the 2027 Super Duty Include Built-In Smart Hitch and Onboard Scales for Livestock Safety? Real-Time Smart Hitch Ford's hitch-assist and available towing technologies help provide helpful guidance on the SYNC 4 screen. Ranchers can verify if their gooseneck weight distribution is optimal before hitting highway speeds. Onboard Payload Scales Integrated Smart Scales calculate real-time cargo and livestock weight loaded into the truck bed or stock trailer. Taillight visual LED bars display payload percentage as animals board, preventing overloaded axles. Enhanced Safety & Compliance Uneven animal movement inside a trailer can shift weight dynamics rapidly. Monitoring live payload ensures compliance with Kansas Highway Patrol axle weight limits while reducing trailer sway risks on I-70. Research Ford F-250 Super Duty What Is the Maximum 2027 Ford Super Duty Gooseneck Towing Capacity for Hauling Grain or Livestock? Super Duty Model Max Gooseneck Towing Max Conventional Towing Max Payload Capacity Ford F-250 SRW Up to 23,000 lbs Up to 22,000 lbs Up to 4,268 lbs Ford F-350 SRW Up to 27,000 lbs Up to 25,000 lbs Up to 4,950 lbs Ford F-350 DRW (Dually) Up to 38,000 lbs Up to 28,000 lbs Up to 8,000 lbs Ford F-450 DRW Up to 40,000 lbs Up to 30,000 lbs Up to 8,000 lbs When transporting heavy grain hoppers or double-deck cattle trailers, towing capacity is paramount. The 2027 Ford Super Duty lineup offers extraordinary pulling muscle, capped by the F-450 DRW capable of towing up to 40,000 lbs with a gooseneck setup. Built on a high-strength, fully boxed steel frame engineered with up to 10 crossmembers, the Super Duty withstands extreme torsional twisting encountered when maneuvering fully loaded trailers across rough pastures in Dickinson County. How Do Ford Power Stroke Diesel Torque Ratings Compare to Chevy Duramax Engine Outputs? Ford 6.7L HO Power Stroke Outputting a massive 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque, Ford's High-Output Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel is positioned among the leading engines in the heavy-duty truck segment. Chevy 6.6L Duramax Diesel Chevy's 6.6L Duramax V8 produces 470 horsepower and 975 lb-ft of torque, leaving a 225 lb-ft torque gap compared to Ford's flagship High-Output engine output. Flint Hills Mud Performance That low-end 1,200 lb-ft torque advantage makes an enormous difference when pulling 25,000-lb cattle trailers out of sticky red clay pens or pulling heavy loads up steep pasture grades. What Maintenance Is Required for the 6.7L Power Stroke DEF System Prior to Farm Work? Before intense agricultural harvest seasons begin in Central Kansas, proactive maintenance on your Super Duty's Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) system prevents unexpected engine power derating during peak farm operations. Dust, dirt, and moisture accumulation around DEF fill ports can contaminate the fluid, causing premature pump failures or injector clogging. We recommend inspecting DEF fluid quality, replacing DEF tank dosing filters at scheduled intervals, and verifying tank heater assembly operation prior to cold fall mornings. You can easily Schedule Ford Service Today with our factory-trained diesel technicians to help keep your emission systems running properly. Schedule Ford Service Today Fall Grain Harvest & Livestock Transport: Super Duty Towing Inspection Guide for Central Kansas As autumn grain harvest kicks into full swing around Junction City, preparing your heavy-duty truck for high-tonnage hauling is essential for road safety and equipment longevity. A complete pre-harvest inspection ensures your truck and trailer operate as a unified, safe unit under demanding conditions. Essential Pre-Harvest Towing Checklist: • Integrated Trailer Brake Controller: Test gain settings with loaded grain trailers. Re-calibrate gain response on SYNC 4 to match weight shifts. • Tire Load Range Inspection: Verify heavy-duty Load Range E or F tires are inflated to maximum cold PSI ratings to carry heavy tongue loads without sidewall flexing. • Emergency Breakaway Switch: Test pin engagement and battery charge levels on trailer safety breakaway kits before road transit. • 7-Pin & 12-Pin Electrical Harnesses: Clean corrosion from trailer plug contacts and test auxiliary live-feed video connections. • Cooling System Check: Flush engine coolant and check transmission fluid heat exchangers to handle extended heavy-load pulls in warm autumn temperatures. Need genuine replacement brake pads, heavy-duty hitch receivers, or trailer wiring adapters? You can conveniently Order Genuine Ford Parts directly through Valor Ford. What DOT Regulations Apply to Farm Trucks Towing Grain Trailers in Kansas? Navigating Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) and Kansas Highway Patrol commercial vehicle enforcement rules can be complex for agricultural producers. In Kansas, covered farm vehicles (CFVs) operated by farmers, family members, or farm employees enjoy specific CDL exemptions when transporting agricultural products, livestock, or machinery within a 150 air-mile radius of the farm. However, if your Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeds 26,001 lbs for non-exempt commercial operations, CDL requirements apply. Additionally, mandatory safety chain cross-latching, operable breakaway brakes, and properly displayed Kansas Farm Vehicle license plates are strictly enforced across Dickinson County highways. Navigating Flint Hills Pastures and Unpaved County Roads with Heavy Agricultural Loads Electronic-Locking Rear Axle Engage the electronic-locking rear differential at the press of a button to send 100% engine torque to both rear wheels when traversing slick prairie mud or steep creek crossings. Engine Exhaust Braking Ford's smart engine exhaust brake uses variable-geometry turbo backpressure to slow heavy livestock trailers on steep downhill grades, dramatically reducing foot brake heat and wear. Prairie Wind Stabilization Advanced Trailer Sway Control uses selective wheel braking and throttle adjustment to counteract sudden crosswinds common across open Central Kansas plains. Browse Used Heavy-Duty Trucks Essential OEM Towing Accessories and Upfits Available at Valor Ford To maximize the capabilities of your 2027 Ford Super Duty, Valor Ford offers a complete range of genuine Ford OEM towing accessories. One favorite among cattle ranchers is the Auxiliary Trailer Camera Kit, which mounts inside your livestock trailer and feeds live HD video directly into your SYNC 4 dashboard display so you can check on animals while driving. Additional popular farm upfits include factory-installed Gooseneck Hitch Prep Packages, heavy-duty spray-in bedliners, wheel well liners, and oversized rubber mud flaps designed to deflect gravel on unpaved county roads. Experience the 2027 Ford Super Duty at Valor Ford in Junction City At Valor Ford, we understand the demanding needs of Central Kansas agriculture. Whether you run a commercial cattle operation or manage a family grain farm, our dedicated commercial truck specialists are here to help you select, configure, and maintain the perfect Super Duty rig. Visit our showroom at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441 to test drive the 2027 Super Duty and experience Pro Trailer Hitch Assist in person. You can get started right now: request a Trade In Evaluation on your current truck, explore flexible financing to Contact us for financing information, or Get Directions to Valor Ford today. Prefer to speak directly with an agricultural truck expert? Call us at (785) 238-5114. Contact us for financing information
What Safety Recalls Affect the 2023 Ford Explorer? Primary safety recalls affecting the 2023 Ford Explorer center on two critical vehicle systems: the rearview camera display and the automatic transmission parking mechanism. Rearview camera recalls involve software errors, wiring harness faults, or 360-degree camera module glitches that cause a blue screen, blank display, or frozen image while reversing. Transmission recalls address a potential loose transmission bolt or parking pawl engagement issue that may prevent the vehicle from holding Park, creating a potential rollaway risk. All recall inspections and repairs are completed free of charge by factory-trained technicians at authorized Ford dealerships. When safety notices are released by the manufacturer, addressing open campaigns quickly preserves vehicle reliability and ensures driver safety. The stop-and-go driving along Washington Street in Junction City puts regular stress on reversing systems and drivetrain components, making routine safety checks vital for local drivers. Ford issues safety recalls whenever a component fails to meet federal motor vehicle safety standards or presents an unreasonable safety hazard during daily vehicle operation. Vehicle owners can inspect their service status at any time by checking their 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Our certified service department provides complete campaign verifications and performs all authorized factory repairs using specialized diagnostic equipment and OEM components. For complete details regarding open campaigns or to schedule an inspection, contact our team by calling (785) 238-5114 or visit our service center location at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441. Table of Contents What Are the Primary Rearview Camera and Transmission Recalls for the 2023 Ford Explorer? What Safety Ratings Did the 2023 Ford Explorer Receive Despite Recalls? How Does 2023 Ford Explorer Ownership and Service Compare to the 2023 Toyota Highlander? How Can You Verify Your VIN and Receive Free 2023 Ford Explorer Recall Repairs? Common Questions About 2023 Ford Explorer Recalls and Maintenance How to Schedule 2023 Ford Explorer Recall Service at Valor Ford in Junction City What Are the Primary Rearview Camera and Transmission Recalls for the 2023 Ford Explorer? The primary recalls for the 2023 Ford Explorer involve digital rearview camera signal loss and automatic transmission parking mechanism faults. Camera issues stem from manufacturing defects in the camera wiring harness, software glitches within the Image Processing Module, or internal failures in 360-degree camera units that lead to a blue screen or black display when shifting into Reverse. Transmission safety campaigns target a loose internal fastening bolt or park rod mechanism within the 10-speed automatic transmission, which can prevent the transmission from mechanically locking into Park even if the rotary gear shifter indicates the vehicle is parked. Factory remedies for the rearview camera vary depending on the specific build date and equipped camera package: Standard Rearview Camera Wiring Harness: Technicians inspect the wiring harness for loose splices or inadequate connectivity, repairing electrical leads or replacing damaged harness sections at no charge. Rearview Camera Software Update: For models experiencing digital processing delay or frozen image output, technicians reprogram the Image Processing Module with updated software to restore instant camera feeds. 360-Degree Camera Replacement: Models fitted with surround-view systems receive a full camera module replacement when internal video processing hardware loses signal output. Service members and families commuting from nearby Fort Riley rely on dependable parking engagement when staging loaded vehicles on sloped Flint Hills terrain, making transmission recall compliance essential. Recall 23S06 specifically covers transmission engagement safety. During this service visit, certified technicians inspect the transmission assembly to confirm the parking pawl and internal fasteners are secure. If damage or improper torque is detected, technicians replace affected park mechanism components or install a replacement transmission assembly if required. Our technicians frequently note during routine maintenance that owners often ask whether a camera glitch requires replacing the entire central infotainment display or simply updating module software. In most cases, targeted software reflashing or specific camera replacement fully resolves the display fault without disrupting the primary SYNC display console. Review comprehensive Ford Explorer technical details to learn more about standard vehicle features and mechanical specifications. What Safety Ratings Did the 2023 Ford Explorer Receive Despite Recalls? Despite active safety recalls, the 2023 Ford Explorer earned a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and was designated a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Crash test evaluations performed by NHTSA yielded top marks across major crash categories, demonstrating exceptional structural integrity and occupant protection. Evaluation Category NHTSA Star Rating Assessment Summary Overall Safety Rating 5 Out of 5 Stars Combined rating across all crash impact tests Frontal Crash 5 Out of 5 Stars Evaluates driver and front passenger protection in head-on collisions Side Crash 5 Out of 5 Stars Combines side barrier and side pole collision testing Rollover Resistance 4 Out of 5 Stars Measures single-vehicle rollover risk during loss-of-control maneuvers Standard active safety technologies further reinforce safety performance. The standard Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assist suite equips every model with driver-assist technologies engineered to prevent collisions before they occur: Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Detection Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert Lane-Keeping System with Lane Departure Warning Auto High-Beam Headlamps and Rear Parking Sensors When higher trim levels like the Limited, ST, or Platinum are equipped with optional Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+, drivers benefit from Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Lane Centering, and Evasive Steering Assist. These crash-avoidance systems operate independently of recall-affected systems like the rearview camera harness or mechanical transmission park pawl, providing active driver protection on every journey. How Does 2023 Ford Explorer Ownership and Service Compare to the 2023 Toyota Highlander? The 2023 Ford Explorer delivers higher standard horsepower, greater towing capacity, and a rear-wheel-drive platform architecture compared to the front-wheel-drive platform and lower power output of the 2023 Toyota Highlander. Powered by a standard 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque paired with a SelectShift 10-speed automatic transmission, the Explorer outpowers the Highlander's standard 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine rated at 265 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. Specification / Feature 2023 Ford Explorer ( 2.3L EcoBoost) 2023 Toyota Highlander (2.4L Turbo) Standard Horsepower 300 hp 265 hp Standard Torque 310 lb-ft 310 lb-ft Transmission 10-Speed SelectShift Automatic 8-Speed Automatic Maximum Towing Capacity 5,300 lbs ( 2.3L) / 5,600 lbs (V6) 5,000 lbs Standard Drive Architecture Rear-Wheel Drive (AWD Available) Front-Wheel Drive (AWD Available) EPA Fuel Economy (RWD/FWD) 20 city / 27 hwy mpg 22 city / 29 hwy mpg Front Legroom 43.0 inches 42.0 inches Maximum Cargo Volume 87.8 cubic feet 84.3 cubic feet From a maintenance and long-term ownership perspective, both three-row SUVs require strict adherence to scheduled fluid changes, tire rotations, and brake system care. The Explorer model's 5,300 lbs towing capacity on standard turbocharged models (increasing to 5,600 lbs on ST and Platinum twin-turbo V6 models) gives it an advantage for hauling heavy utility trailers compared to the Highlander model's 5,000-lb limit. Proper service care for the SelectShift transmission, including fluid inspections and prompt recall updates, preserves smooth shifting and optimal power delivery over high mileages. Owners can easily schedule Ford service online to keep engine, transmission, and braking systems operating at factory standards. How Can You Verify Your VIN and Receive Free 2023 Ford Explorer Recall Repairs? You can verify whether your 2023 Ford Explorer has open safety recalls by entering your vehicle's 17-character Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into the official Ford Owner recall portal or the NHTSA recall lookup tool. The VIN is a unique alphanumeric code that identifies your specific vehicle build, option package, and production date. To locate your vehicle's VIN, check these primary locations: Lower Driver-Side Windshield: Look at the corner where the dashboard meets the windshield glass, readable from outside the car. Driver-Side Door Pillar: Locate the safety certification label attached to the door jamb inside the driver's door frame. Official Documentation: Review your state vehicle registration card, auto insurance policy card, or vehicle title paperwork. Federal law mandates that all safety recall inspections, software updates, and replacement parts must be provided completely free of charge to vehicle owners when performed at an authorized Ford dealership. There are no out-of-pocket costs for parts or factory labor associated with completing a recall campaign. If an inspection during a recall repair reveals worn related components that fall outside the campaign parameters, owners can also order genuine Ford parts through our parts department to ensure every repair utilizes factory-certified components. Common Questions About 2023 Ford Explorer Recalls and Maintenance Q: Are all recall repairs for the 2023 Ford Explorer completely free of charge? Yes, all safety recall repairs, software updates, and component replacements are performed at zero cost to the vehicle owner. Federal regulations require vehicle manufacturers to cover 100 percent of parts and labor expenses for safety recall campaigns when service is completed at an authorized dealership, regardless of vehicle mileage or current warranty expiration status. Q: How long does it take to complete the rearview camera and transmission recall service? Service duration depends on the specific campaign applicable to your VIN. A rearview camera software update typically takes under an hour, whereas physical wiring harness inspections or camera module replacements take between one and two hours. Transmission inspections usually take one to two hours; if full internal mechanism repair or assembly replacement is needed, service may require a full day. Q: Why does my 2023 Ford Explorer rearview camera display a blue or blank screen? A blue or blank display during reversing is caused by signal loss between the camera hardware and the central SYNC display screen. This failure stems from a manufacturing fault in the camera wiring harness splices, internal processing failure inside 360-degree camera modules, or a software glitch in the Image Processing Module that interrupts video transmission when Reverse gear is engaged. Q: Can I continue driving my 2023 Ford Explorer if it has an open recall notice? While many vehicles remain drivable, open safety recalls should be addressed as quickly as possible. A transmission rollaway recall presents a potential safety risk if the vehicle fails to hold Park on an incline. Drivers should always engage the electronic parking brake firmly when parking until the recall inspection and service are completed by a factory-certified technician. Q: Will completing a recall repair extend or affect my Ford factory warranty? Completing a safety recall does not shorten or alter your standard factory warranty coverage. The 2023 Ford Explorer includes a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Recall repairs are documented in Ford's national service database, maintaining your complete vehicle service history and ensuring ongoing warranty compliance. How to Schedule 2023 Ford Explorer Recall Service at Valor Ford in Junction City Resolving active safety recalls on your 2023 Ford Explorer is straightforward when trusting our specialized service department. Our factory-trained technicians possess specific diagnostic equipment, specialized tools, and direct access to genuine OEM parts required to perform camera software updates, wiring repairs, and transmission inspections efficiently. Completing these open service actions ensures your vehicle operates according to factory specifications while protecting your family on every commute. Our service team provides convenient appointment scheduling, clear service timelines, and comprehensive multi-point vehicle inspections with every recall visit. To confirm open recalls for your VIN or reserve your service appointment, give our team a call at (785) 238-5114. For drivers planning a visit, get simple directions to our dealership at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441 and let our certified technicians keep your Ford running safely. © 2026 Valor Ford. All rights reserved. Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited.
Standard 2026 Ford Explorer Active Interior & Tech: Cabin Overview When evaluating midsize three-row SUVs in central Kansas, savvy Buyers often ask whether entry-level or core trim levels force compromises on connectivity, comfort, or safety. For the 2026 model year, Ford updates expectations with the Explorer Active. Rather than stripping out premium features to keep entry pricing accessible, Ford has engineered the Active trim as a well-equipped foundation that delivers high-end digital architecture and family-focused comfort as standard equipment. At the center of the cabin is the all-new Ford Digital Experience, anchored by a massive 13.2-inch central touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are standard across the board, eliminating messy cable clutter on your daily commute along I-70 or trips across Dickinson County. Furthermore, every 2026 Explorer Active comes equipped with heated front seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, durable ActiveX® synthetic leather seating surfaces, and the robust Ford Co-Pilot360® suite of advanced safety features. From a total cost of ownership perspective, standardizing these high-tier features means drivers no longer need to jump up two or three trim levels—moving to higher-priced trims—just to get modern technology and winter-ready seating. To explore detailed specifications or check current dealership availability, you can Research Ford Explorer models directly on our site. Meet Nino Williams: 11 Years of Automotive Finance & SUV Valuation Experience Hello! I am Nino Williams, Finance Manager at Valor Ford in Junction City, KS. Over the past 11 years in automotive finance and vehicle valuation, I have analyzed thousands of lease contracts, auto loans, and trade-in appraisals. My daily focus is helping families, military personnel from nearby Fort Riley, and local commuters find the right balance between vehicle capabilities and long-term budgeting. What excites me most about the 2026 Ford Explorer Active is its value. Historically, base or entry-level trims suffered higher relative depreciation because tech-savvy used Buyers passed them over for mid-tier trims. However, because Ford equipped the 2026 Active trim with standard 13.2-inch displays, Google Built-in apps, and full driver-assist suites, it may retain value well. Whether financing through the dealership, Buyers can match the Explorer Active to their needs and budget. What Touchscreens and Digital Displays Come Standard on the 2026 Ford Explorer Active? The cornerstone of the 2026 Ford Explorer Active cabin is the standard Ford Digital Experience system. Centered on the dashboard is a landscape-oriented 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment display. Unlike legacy screens that required option packages, this expansive interface comes standard on every single Active model leaving the factory. Integrated directly into the system is Google Built-In technology, featuring native Google Maps for real-time traffic updates around Fort Riley and Google Assistant for effortless voice controls. Drivers can manage temperature, change audio channels, or set navigation destinations without taking their hands off the leather-wrapped steering wheel. Directly behind the wheel sits a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. This screen replaces physical dials with customizable high-resolution gauges, safety alerts, fuel economy data, and turn-by-turn navigation prompts. Coupled with standard 5G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability (supporting up to 10 devices), the Explorer Active transforms into a connected mobile space for road trips. Ergonomically, Ford raised the screen position higher on the dash, bringing critical information closer to the driver's natural line of sight. Wireless smartphone charging and multiple USB-C ports in both the front and second rows ensure everyone stays powered up on extended drives across Kansas. Standard Interior Seating Materials, Cargo Space, and Comfort Specs in the Explorer Active Premium ActiveX® Seating The 2026 Explorer Active comes standard with high-durability ActiveX® synthetic leather seating surfaces. Resistant to stains and easy to clean after weekend trips to Milford Lake, ActiveX® combines luxury texture with everyday practical resilience. 7-Passenger Versatility Configured standard with a 10-way power driver seat, 4-way power front passenger seat, heated front seating elements, and EZ Entry second-row 35/30/35 bench seating, accessing the third row for kids or guests is effortless. Interior Dimension / Spec 2026 Ford Explorer Active Standard Rating Seating Capacity 7 Passengers (Standard) Front Headroom / Legroom 40.7 in / 43.0 in Second Row Legroom 39.0 in Third Row Legroom 32.2 in Cargo Volume Behind 3rd Row 18.2 cu. ft. Max Cargo Volume (Seats Folded) 85.8 cu. ft. Contact Us for Current Financing Information What Engine Comes Standard in the 2026 Ford Explorer Active? Under the hood, every 2026 Ford Explorer Active comes equipped with Ford's proven 2.3-liter EcoBoost® turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine. Engineered for low-end torque responsiveness and high-altitude efficiency, this powertrain produces an impressive 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, the 2.3L EcoBoost delivers quick acceleration off the line while maintaining relaxed cruising RPMs on Kansas highways. Selectable Drive Modes (Normal, Eco, Sport, Tow/Haul, Slippery) allow drivers to tailor shift logic and throttle response instantly. From my finance and valuation perspective, the 2.3L EcoBoost strikes a strong balance between overall ownership cost, fuel efficiency, and long-term mechanical reliability. It uses standard unleaded fuel while delivering class-leading horsepower among standard 4-cylinder competitive engines. If you are considering trading in your current vehicle to upgrade to this impressive powertrain, you can complete a quick Trade In Evaluation online with Valor Ford. How Much Extra Does All-Wheel Drive Cost on the 2026 Ford Explorer Active? The standard configuration for the 2026 Ford Explorer Active is rear-wheel drive (RWD), which offers excellent dynamic handling balance and optimized fuel efficiency. However, for drivers handling icy Kansas winters or unpaved rural roads, Ford offers its Intelligent 4WD system as an available option. Contact the dealership for current financing information. From an equity perspective, Intelligent 4WD vehicles retain a higher percentage of their initial option cost upon trade-in in Midwestern markets, making it a practical long-term choice. What Is the Maximum Towing Capacity of the 2026 Ford Explorer Active? 5,000 lbs Tow Rating Every 2026 Ford Explorer Active comes equipped with a standard Class III Trailer Tow Package, rating the SUV to haul up to 5,000 pounds when properly configured. Built-in Tow Tech The package includes a factory hitch receiver, 4-pin/7-pin wiring harness connectors, and integrated Trailer Sway Control to keep boat or camper trailers stable at highway speeds. Real-World Utility Whether towing ski boats to Milford Lake or pulling enclosed utility trailers for weekend projects around Junction City, the Explorer Active handles heavy loads with confidence. Browse Used Inventory Finance Manager Insights: Why the Active Trim Offers Strong Value for Buyers "In my 11 years managing automotive finance portfolios, I consistently evaluate vehicle total cost of ownership—which includes interest, insurance rates, and future trade equity. The 2026 Explorer Active is what I call a 'feature-rich trim.' In prior years, base models lacked core screens or power comfort features, forcing Buyers to move up to higher trims and pay more. With the 2026 Active, you get the giant 13.2-inch display, heated ActiveX seating, 300 horsepower, and 5,000 lbs towing as baseline equipment. You may review current financing options without sacrificing a single everyday comfort." — Nino Williams, Finance Manager at Valor Ford How Does the 2026 Ford Explorer Active Compare to the Honda Pilot? When comparing the 2026 Ford Explorer Active to the Honda Pilot LX/EX-L trim levels, key technical and digital differences can be reviewed. The standard Honda Pilot LX includes a modest 7-inch display screen, whereas the Explorer Active comes standard with a massive 13.2-inch central display. Under the hood, the Explorer Active's 2.3L EcoBoost engine produces 310 lb-ft of torque starting low in the RPM band, giving it comparable off-the-line capability than the Pilot's naturally aspirated 3.5L V6 (262 lb-ft torque). Feature 2026 Ford Explorer Active 2026 Honda Pilot LX / EX-L Standard Display Screen 13.2-inch Touchscreen 7-inch / 9-inch Display Standard Torque 310 lb-ft @ 3,000 RPM 262 lb-ft @ 5,000 RPM Standard Digital Cluster 12.3-inch Full Digital 7-inch Partial Digital Max Towing Capacity 5,000 lbs (Standard) 3,500 lbs (Standard 2WD) How Does the 2026 Ford Explorer Active Compare to the Toyota Highlander? Another comparison vehicle is the Toyota Highlander. While the Highlander remains a popular choice, entry Highlander models standardly equip an 8-inch screen compared to the 13.2-inch screen standard on the Explorer Active. Crucially for growing families, the Explorer Active offers significantly more third-row legroom (32.2 inches vs Highlander's 28.0 inches). Furthermore, the Explorer Active delivers 300 horsepower standard compared to Highlander's 265 horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. Research Ford Explorer Models Expert Guide: 2026 Ford Explorer Active Capabilities & Practical Buyer Advice Military Family Practicality For military personnel stationed at Fort Riley experiencing frequent relocations, the standard 86 cu. ft. max cargo capacity and robust ActiveX® durability make packing up household gear and pets straightforward. Highway Commuter Tech Standard Google Built-In navigation and wireless CarPlay allow effortless hands-free calling and real-time route rerouting, keeping long highway drives focused and safe. All-Season Safety Confidence Ford Co-Pilot360® includes Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®), and Lane-Keeping assist standard. Navigating Financing, Online Credit Pre-Approval, and Trade-Ins at Valor Ford At Valor Ford, our finance team streamlines your purchasing journey. You can complete our secure online application to Contact Us for Current Financing Information in minutes before stepping foot on our lot. This helps you discuss current financing options and simplify budgeting. If you plan to apply equity from your current vehicle toward down payment requirements, use our convenient online tool for a Trade In Evaluation. We offer trade-in support to help with your purchase. We also work closely with military members and local credit unions across central Kansas to discuss current financing options. Feel free to Call us at (785) 238-5114 with any specific financing or trade-in questions. For routine vehicle maintenance down the road, our certified service technicians are here to help. You can easily Schedule Ford Service Today with our team. Test Drive the 2026 Ford Explorer Active at Valor Ford in Junction City, KS Ready to experience the standard 13.2-inch digital display, smooth EcoBoost performance, and spacious third-row seating of the 2026 Ford Explorer Active for yourself? Visit our showroom at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441. Get Directions to Valor Ford or give us a call at (785) 238-5114 to schedule your personalized test drive today. Contact Us for Current Financing Information
