How To Turn Off Tow Haul On Ford F150

This guide walks you through how to turn off tow haul on Ford F150 trucks across various model years. Whether you’re driving a 2010 or a 2023 F150, you’ll learn the simple steps to deactivate tow/haul mode and understand when it’s best to use it.

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Key Takeaways

Tow/Haul mode adjusts transmission shift patterns to improve towing performance and control, especially on hills or with heavy loads.
Turning off tow/haul is as simple as pressing the button on the gear shift or dashboard—no tools or special knowledge required.
The tow/haul indicator light on your dashboard will turn off once the mode is successfully disabled.
You should only use tow/haul when towing or hauling—leaving it on during normal driving can reduce fuel efficiency and increase engine wear.
Some newer F150 models with electronic shifters require using the touchscreen or gear selector to disable the mode.
If the tow/haul button doesn’t respond, check the fuse, battery connection, or consult your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions.
Always test drive after turning off tow/haul to ensure smooth shifting and normal transmission behavior.

How to Turn Off Tow Haul on Ford F150: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve ever driven a Ford F150 while towing a trailer, boat, or heavy cargo, you’ve likely used the tow/haul mode. This smart feature helps your truck handle extra weight by adjusting the transmission shift points, improving engine braking, and enhancing overall control. But once you’re done towing, it’s important to turn off tow haul on Ford F150 to restore normal driving performance.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple process of disabling tow/haul mode on various Ford F150 models—from older trucks with manual shifters to the latest models with digital displays. Whether you’re a seasoned truck owner or a first-time F150 driver, this guide will help you do it safely and correctly.

By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to turn off tow/haul, understand why it matters, and troubleshoot any issues that might come up.

What Is Tow/Haul Mode and Why Does It Matter?

Visual guide about how to turn off tow haul on ford f150

Image source: jeepfixes.com

Before we dive into the steps, let’s quickly explain what tow/haul mode actually does.

Tow/haul mode is a transmission feature designed to help your Ford F150 manage heavy loads more effectively. When activated, it:

Delays upshifting to keep the engine in a higher power range
Increases engine braking when you lift off the accelerator
Prevents excessive shifting on hills or uneven terrain
Helps maintain better control when descending steep grades

This mode is especially useful when towing trailers, campers, or hauling heavy equipment. However, using tow/haul during regular driving—like commuting or city driving—can lead to:

Reduced fuel efficiency
Harsher gear shifts
Increased engine and transmission wear

That’s why it’s essential to turn off tow haul on Ford F150 once you’re no longer towing or hauling. Doing so ensures smoother driving, better gas mileage, and longer vehicle life.

How to Turn Off Tow Haul on Ford F150: Step-by-Step Instructions

Visual guide about how to turn off tow haul on ford f150

Image source: wheelsjoint.com

The process for turning off tow/haul mode varies slightly depending on your F150’s model year and transmission type. Below, we’ll cover the most common scenarios.

For Ford F150 Models with a Physical Tow/Haul Button (2004–2020)

Many Ford F150 trucks from 2004 to 2020 feature a physical tow/haul button located on the gear shifter or center console. Here’s how to turn it off:

Step 1: Locate the Tow/Haul Button

Look for a button labeled “Tow/Haul” or “T/H” near the gear shifter. It’s usually on the side or top of the shifter lever, or on the dashboard near the climate controls.

Step 2: Press the Button

With the engine running and the vehicle in park or drive, press the tow/haul button once. You should hear a soft click.

Step 3: Check the Dashboard

Look at your instrument cluster. The tow/haul indicator light (usually a small icon of a trailer or the letters “T/H”) should turn off. If it remains lit, press the button again.

Step 4: Test Drive

Drive the truck for a short distance. You should notice smoother, earlier upshifts and quieter engine operation—signs that tow/haul mode is off.

Pro Tip: If the button feels unresponsive, try pressing it firmly or cycling the ignition off and on before retrying.

For Ford F150 Models with an Electronic Shifter (2021–2024)

Newer F150 models (2021 and later) often come with an electronic gear selector and a touchscreen interface. Tow/haul mode is controlled through the infotainment system.

Step 1: Start the Vehicle

Turn on the ignition and ensure the truck is in park.

Step 2: Access the Drive Mode Menu

Tap the “Settings” icon on the touchscreen, then select “Drive Mode” or “Towing.”

Step 3: Disable Tow/Haul Mode

Find the “Tow/Haul” option and toggle it off. The screen will confirm the change.

Step 4: Confirm the Dashboard

Check the instrument cluster. The tow/haul light should disappear.

Step 5: Shift Gears Normally

Use the electronic shifter to move into drive and test the transmission response.

Note: Some 2021+ F150s also have a physical tow/haul button on the shifter. If present, you can still use it to toggle the mode on or off.

For Ford F150 with Column Shifter (Older Models)

Some older F150 trucks (pre-2004) have a column-mounted shifter with a tow/haul button on the turn signal stalk or dashboard.

Step 1: Find the Button

Look for a small button near the steering column or on the instrument panel.

Step 2: Press and Release

Press the button once. The tow/haul light on the dashboard should go out.

Step 3: Verify the Change

Drive the truck briefly to confirm normal shifting behavior.

When Should You Turn Off Tow/Haul Mode?

Visual guide about how to turn off tow haul on ford f150

Image source: wheelsjoint.com

Knowing when to turn off tow/haul is just as important as knowing how.

You should disable tow/haul mode when:

You’ve finished towing or hauling
You’re driving on regular roads or highways
You’re in stop-and-go traffic
You want to improve fuel economy
You notice harsh shifting or sluggish acceleration

Conversely, reactivate tow/haul when:

Towing a trailer, boat, or RV
Hauling heavy cargo in the bed
Driving on steep hills or mountain roads
Descending long, downhill grades

Using tow/haul only when needed helps protect your transmission and keeps your F150 running efficiently.

Troubleshooting: What If Tow/Haul Won’t Turn Off?

Sometimes, the tow/haul mode may not deactivate as expected. Here are common issues and fixes:

Issue 1: Tow/Haul Light Stays On

If the dashboard light remains illuminated after pressing the button:

Try pressing the button multiple times
Turn the ignition off, wait 10 seconds, then restart
Check for a stuck button—clean around the switch with compressed air

Issue 2: Button Doesn’t Respond

If the button feels dead or unresponsive:

Check the fuse box (usually under the dashboard or hood) for a blown fuse labeled “Tow/Haul” or “Transmission”
Inspect the battery connection—low voltage can affect electronic controls
Consult your owner’s manual for fuse locations and part numbers

Issue 3: Transmission Still Feels “Off”

Even after turning off tow/haul, you might notice rough shifts or delayed response.

Take the truck for a 10–15 minute drive to allow the transmission to relearn normal patterns
Ensure the transmission fluid is at the correct level and in good condition
If problems persist, visit a Ford service center for diagnostics

Issue 4: Touchscreen Not Responding (Newer Models)

On 2021+ F150s with SYNC 4:

Restart the infotainment system by holding the power and volume buttons for 10 seconds
Ensure the software is up to date via Ford’s OTA (over-the-air) updates
Try using the physical button (if available) as an alternative

Safety Tips When Using Tow/Haul Mode

While tow/haul is a helpful feature, it’s important to use it safely:

Always engage tow/haul before starting to tow—don’t wait until you’re on the road
Don’t use tow/haul in slippery conditions like snow or ice—it can reduce traction
Monitor your transmission temperature, especially on long trips
Never force the button—if it’s stuck, have it inspected
Keep your owner’s manual handy for model-specific guidance

Conclusion: Keep Your F150 Running Smoothly

Turning off tow/haul mode on your Ford F150 is a quick and easy task that can make a big difference in your truck’s performance and efficiency. Whether you drive a classic 2004 model or a brand-new 2024 F150, the process is straightforward—just press the button or toggle the setting, and confirm the light goes out.

Remember: tow/haul mode is a tool, not a default setting. Use it when you need extra control and power, but turn it off when you’re back to everyday driving. Doing so will help you save fuel, reduce wear, and enjoy a smoother ride.

If you ever run into issues, don’t panic. Most problems are minor and fixable with a simple reset or fuse check. And when in doubt, your Ford dealer or a trusted mechanic can help.

Now that you know how to turn off tow haul on Ford F150, you’re ready to drive smarter, tow safer, and get the most out of your truck.