How to tow a 2014 Ford Escape?
A 2014 Ford Escape should not be flat-towed with all four wheels down. The recommended options are towing with a tow dolly (front wheels elevated) or towing on a trailer, with the engine off and the transmission in neutral. Always consult the owner's manual or Ford’s official guidance for your exact configuration before towing.
Flat-towing restrictions for the 2014 Escape
Why four‑wheel-down towing is generally not advised
Most 2014 Escapes equipped with an automatic transmission are not designed for flat towing (four wheels on the ground). Towing with the engine and transmission stationary can spin internal components, risking severe damage without proper lubrication or design features. The safest routes are to use a tow dolly (front wheels up) or a trailer, with the engine off and the transmission in neutral, after verifying your exact drivetrain and options in the owner's manual.
Engine and drivetrain considerations
The Escape line that year offered automatic transmissions paired with front- or all-wheel drive. Because the transmission and oiling system are not set up for continuous rotation when towed with all wheels on the ground, Ford generally does not endorse 4‑down towing for these vehicles. Always confirm your specific model’s towing method in the manual or with a dealer, especially if your Escape has optional equipment that could change the procedure.
Tow dolly method (front wheels on the dolly)
If you choose to tow using a tow dolly, follow these general steps to move the vehicle safely while keeping the transmission and drivetrain protected.
- Verify drivetrain and tow compatibility: Confirm your 2014 Escape’s exact configuration (FWD vs. AWD) and whether a factory tow package or approved aftermarket dolly is recommended for your model.
- Prepare the tow dolly and towed vehicle: Inflate tires to the recommended pressures, remove or secure any loose items in the cargo area, and disconnect or tape up any antennas as needed to avoid damage during transport.
- Position the Escape on the dolly: Drive the Escape onto the dolly so that the front wheels are securely seated on the dolly’s wheels and the rear wheels remain on the road. Engage the parking brake only after the vehicle is properly positioned and secured, then release the brake before loading if instructed by the dolly manufacturer.
- Set the transmission and ignition: With the engine off, place the automatic transmission in Neutral. Set the ignition to a mode that unlocks the steering column if required by the Escape’s system, and ensure the electrical system powers the tow lights if needed.
- Secure tie-downs and safety gear: Use manufacturer‑recommended straps or chains to secure the Escape at all four corners or as specified by the dolly’s instructions. Attach safety chains between the tow vehicle and dolly as a backup.
- Connect lighting and braking signals: Tie the Escape’s lighting to the tow vehicle’s brake and turn signal system or use an independent lighting system to ensure brake and turn signals are visible to other drivers.
- Test everything before departure: Check strap tension, lighting, and the dolly’s hitch connection. Do a short test drive in a safe area to confirm stability and braking performance.
Concluding: Towing with a dolly protects the Escape’s automatic transmission and is a widely used method when flat towing isn’t advised. Always adhere to the specific dolly manufacturer’s instructions and the Escape’s manual for your exact configuration.
Tow on a trailer (full trailer or car carrier)
Towing the Escape on a trailer is another common, safe option, especially for longer moves or when you need to minimize wear on the vehicle’s drivetrain. Here are typical steps to follow, though always refer to official guidance for your model and equipment.
- Choose a properly rated trailer: Use a trailer that can safely carry the Escape’s weight and that provides secure tie-down points compatible with Ford’s recommended methods.
- Prepare the vehicle and trailer: Remove loose items, secure the spare tire and tools, and ensure the trailer’s ramps or deck are firm and level.
- Position and secure the Escape: Place the Escape on the trailer with the drive wheels on a non-skid surface if applicable, and use high-quality straps or wheel chocks to secure all four corners. Avoid objects that could shift during transport.
- Lock the transmission and ignition: For many automatics, towing on a trailer requires the transmission to be in Neutral. The ignition should be set to the mode recommended by Ford to prevent steering lock while the vehicle is being moved on the trailer.
- Connect lighting and braking: Attach the trailer’s lighting to the tow vehicle and verify brake signal compatibility. Inspect all connections and ensure independent brake systems function correctly if installed.
- Check weight distribution and speed: Ensure proper weight distribution on the trailer and follow safe speed limits and local regulations for trailer towing. Keep a larger following distance and plan for longer braking distances.
Concluding: A trailer provides the most control and reduces risk of drivetrain damage when towing a 2014 Escape. Follow the trailer manufacturer’s instructions and Ford’s guidance for your exact configuration to stay compliant and safe.
Pre-tow checklist and practical tips
Before any tow, perform a quick checklist to avoid surprises on the road. This section provides practical steps to prepare your Escape and the towing setup.
- Verify towing legality and weight limits: Check your vehicle’s manual and local laws for maximum towing capacity and towing methods permitted for your configuration.
- Inspect tires and brakes: Ensure all tires (on both the Escape and the towing apparatus) are in good condition and inflated to spec. Brake system compatibility is essential for safe towing.
- Check lights, signals, and safety devices: Make sure taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and any supplemental braking systems are working properly and clearly visible to other drivers.
- Plan your route and speed: Map routes that avoid steep grades if possible and maintain a steady, moderate speed appropriate for the tow setup and local regulations.
Concluding: A careful pre-tow check reduces the risk of damage to the Escape and improves road safety during the move.
Bottom line and guidance
For a 2014 Ford Escape, flat-towing with all four wheels down is generally not recommended. The safest options are to tow with a dolly (front wheels elevated) or to tow on a trailer, with the engine off and the transmission in neutral, following the vehicle’s manual and manufacturer recommendations. When in doubt, consult a Ford dealer or a professional towing service to ensure you choose the correct method for your exact configuration.
Summary
To move a 2014 Ford Escape responsibly on a tow, avoid four-wheels-down towing. Use a tow dolly for front-wheel-drive configurations or a properly rated trailer for full trailer towing. Prepare the vehicle and equipment according to the manual, secure all connections, and verify lights and brakes before hitting the road. Always confirm your specific model’s requirements with the owner's manual or a Ford professional before towing.
How to turn on tow mode on a Ford?
Here the towhaul indicator will illuminate in the instrument cluster indicating the towhaul mode is now activated to deactivate simply press the button.
Can a Ford Escape be towed?
Yes, a Ford Escape can pull a trailer, but its towing capacity varies significantly depending on the engine and required equipment, ranging from 1,500 to 3,500 pounds. To achieve the maximum 3,500-pound capacity, the vehicle must have the 2.0L EcoBoost® engine and the Class II Trailer Tow Package.
You can watch this video to learn how to activate tow/haul mode in a Ford vehicle: 17sFord Motor CompanyYouTube · Feb 9, 2017
Towing capacities by engine
- 2.0L EcoBoost® engine: Up to 3,500 pounds, with the Class II Trailer Tow Package.
- 1.5L EcoBoost® engine: Up to 2,000 pounds.
- Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid (2.5L engine): Up to 1,500 pounds.
Important considerations
- Required equipment: Always check if your Escape has the necessary equipment, especially the Class II Trailer Tow Package, before towing anything over 2,000 pounds.
- Trailer weight: Never exceed the trailer's weight limit, and ensure the combined weight of your vehicle and trailer does not exceed the vehicle's Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR).
- Additional equipment: You are responsible for getting the correct hitch ball, ball mounting, and any other required equipment to safely tow your trailer and its load.
Can you tow a 2014 Ford Escape?
The quick answer is NO.
How to put Ford Escape in neutral?
And pull out this orange handle. Now once I pull this orange handle it's going to put the transmission in the neutral. Position and put the parking brake. On.
