How much can a Ford Escape tow?
A Ford Escape can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped, with most configurations pulling around 2,000 pounds. The exact capacity depends on the engine, drivetrain, and whether the Trailering Package is installed.
Towing capability for the Escape varies by model year and trim, so owners should consult the specific window sticker or the owner's manual for their exact combination. Below is a breakdown of typical ratings and key considerations to help you gauge what your Escape can handle.
Engine options and towing ratings
Not all Escapes offer the same towing limits. Here are the commonly cited maximums by engine configuration and equipment level:
- 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine: up to about 2,000 pounds (depending on whether the vehicle is FWD or AWD and other equipment).
- 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine with Trailering Package: up to 3,500 pounds. This setup is the maximum-tow configuration for the Escape.
- Hybrid and plug-in hybrid (HEV/PHEV) variants: up to about 1,500 pounds.
These figures reflect factory ratings for commonly sold configurations. If you plan to tow near or at the upper limit, you’ll need the proper trailering equipment and compliance with all Ford recommendations, including cooling and braking support where required.
What affects towing capacity
A few factors influence how much you can tow with your Escape beyond the engine choice. Weight in the vehicle from passengers and cargo, the presence of towing hardware, and the overall vehicle configuration all play a role. The Trailering Package typically includes enhancements such as a higher-capacity radiator and transmission cooler, a heavier-duty hitch, and wiring provisions that support heavier trailers. Always verify the exact rating for your specific vehicle and year.
Practical guidance for towing with a Ford Escape
For safe, legal towing, follow these guidelines to avoid overstressing the vehicle or compromising handling and braking. The following items are practical considerations to keep in mind when planning to tow with an Escape.
- Ensure you have the correct trailer hitch and wiring harness installed for your towing weight.
- If towing near the maximum rating, consider adding the Trailering Package and any recommended cooling upgrades.
- Adhere to tongue weight limits, which are typically about 10–15% of the trailer’s gross weight for stable handling.
- Plan for braking requirements; some trailers require trailer brakes, and Ford’s guidelines will specify when they are necessary.
- Factor in cargo, fuel, passengers, and gear inside the Escape, as these reduce the available towing capacity.
Following these precautions helps ensure safe towing and preserves the Escape’s drivetrain integrity over time.
How to confirm your vehicle’s exact rating
Because the Escape’s towing capacity can vary by year, trim, and equipment, verify the precise figure for your specific SUV. Use these steps to confirm:
- Check the vehicle’s owner’s manual for the official towing specification for your exact model and year.
- Look at the doorjamb or glovebox sticker, which often lists the maximum trailer weight and tongue weight for your configuration.
- If you’re unsure, contact a Ford dealer or use Ford’s official online resources with your VIN to pull the exact rating.
- Confirm whether the Trailering Package is installed, since it can unlock the higher 3,500-pound rating associated with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine.
Getting the precise number from a reliable source is essential before towing any trailer, especially near the upper limits.
Summary
In its most capable form, the Ford Escape can tow up to 3,500 pounds with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine and the Trailering Package. Many common configurations, particularly those with the 1.5-liter EcoBoost, tow around 2,000 pounds, while HEV and PHEV versions are typically limited to about 1,500 pounds. Always verify your specific vehicle’s rating on the door sticker or in the owner’s manual, and equip the right hitch, wiring, and cooling systems if you intend to tow regularly or at higher weights. Proper preparation and adherence to the rating ensure safe, efficient towing with the Escape.
Can a Ford Escape tow 5000 lbs?
Ford Escape
Towing capacity starts at 1,500 lbs. and goes up to 3,500 lbs.
How much can a 4 cylinder Ford Escape tow?
2021 Ford Escape Engine Differences
| Engine | 1.5L EcoBoost | 2.0L EcoBoost I4 |
|---|---|---|
| MPG (city/hwy) | 28/34 | 23/31 |
| Horsepower | 181 HP | 250 HP |
| Torque | 190 lb.-ft. | 280 lb.-ft. |
| Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs. | 3,500 lbs. |
Which Ford Escape can tow 3500 lbs?
Maximum Towing Capacities
The 2022 Escape towing capacity varies, depending on how you outfit your SUV and which engine you choose: The 2.0L EcoBoost® with AWD can effectively tow 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Can a Ford Escape tow a camper?
Yes, a Ford Escape can pull a camper, but its towing capacity depends on the model year, engine, and optional tow package. Some models can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped with the Class II Trailer Tow Package, which is suitable for smaller campers, while other configurations may be limited to lower weights. It is crucial to check the owner's manual for your specific vehicle to determine its exact towing limits and requirements.
This video explains the towing capacities of Ford Escape models from 2001 to 2019: 32sLets Tow ThatYouTube · Sep 23, 2020
Key factors to consider
- Engine and tow package: The highest towing capacity of 3,500 pounds is typically available with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine and the Class II Trailer Tow Package, which includes a more robust hitch and trailer sway control.
- Towing capacity by engine:
- 2.0L EcoBoost: Up to 3,500 lbs (with tow package)
- 1.5L EcoBoost: Up to 2,000 lbs
- Hybrid: Up to 1,500 lbs
- Weight limitations:
- Ensure the camper's weight does not exceed your vehicle's maximum trailer weight rating.
- Consider the weight of passengers and cargo inside the Escape as well.
- Be mindful of the trailer's frontal area, especially with larger trailers, as exceeding the recommended frontal area can impact performance.
- Safety and equipment:
- It is recommended to use an aftermarket trailer brake controller for trailers with electric brakes.
- Always turn off cruise control when towing, especially on hills or in poor weather conditions.
- Using a proper tow hitch receiver and ensuring your wiring is compatible are essential for a safe connection.
- Manual is key: The most accurate information for your specific vehicle can be found in the owner's manual. It will provide the exact towing capacity based on your model's trim, engine, and equipment.
You can watch this video to see an example of a Ford Escape towing a trailer: 58sJames's home solar & moreYouTube · Apr 19, 2022
