How to Confirm Towing Capacity of 2008 Ford Escape

Updated 02/06/2018 | Published 02/05/2018

Question:

Hi, I am looking to purchase a trailer hitch for my 2008 Ford Escape. I know you sell a hitch attachment fitted for the 08foot Ford Escape but how heavy duty is this product actually? I plan on hauling a 16foot camper, do you think this product would be able to do the job? Let me know, Thanks.

asked by: Rebecca

Expert Reply:

You'll want to confirm the fully-loaded weight of the trailer you wish to tow and compare that to both the vehicle's rating as noted in the owner's manual and to the rating of the hitch that is on it, or the one you intend to install. Many vehicles, including your 2008 Ford Escape (I drive an 08 Escape too!) can vary in their towing capacity depending on the specific equipment.

If a car and the hitch you put on it have different towing capacities then the lower of the two always becomes the overall limit. For instance, the 2008 Escape with 2.3L engine can tow 1500-lbs while the 3.0L V6 can tow up to 3500. Other models such as the hybrid are not recommended for any towing. The Draw-Tite hitch # 75751 that fits the Escape is rated for up to 4500-lbs trailer weight but since this is more than the car itself the car's rating is what actually applies.

Please refer to the two linked articles.

expert reply by: Adam R