Will 4 Terminal Relay, # TR38665 Fit a 2008 Ford Escape

Updated 01/09/2013 | Published 08/01/2011

Products Featured in This Question

Tow Package Wiring Harness with 4 Pole Trailer Connector

(246)

$17.01

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(601)

$72.70

Question:

Hi Guys, I need the 3 relays for the fuse box that go into my tow package on 2008 Escape built 5/2008. There are no relays in the fuse box. The technician said the wiring was preinstalled but no relays. They want $37 each at FORD. According to my manual, they go into spots 31C Trailer Tow left turn relay 31D Trailer Tow right turn relay 31E Trailer Tow park relay Will your relays #TR38665 do the trick? Let me know ASAP.

asked by: Steve

Expert Reply:

The 4 Terminal Relay, # TR38665, will fit the 2008 and Newer Ford Escape. We have had customers state that these relays are good replacements for the ones offered from the dealer. They are designed to complete the factory tow package on several vehicles, including your Escape.

However, before purchasing the relays, open the fuse box and take a close look at the sockets or landings that the relays would insert into. If the landings have the metal contacts in them, inserting the relays will indeed complete the tow package. You would then use part # 118251, which plugs into the connector behind the bumper as shown in the photo I have provided.

If the relay landings do NOT have the metal contacts, then your tow package wiring is incomplete and installing the relays will not activate anything. If this is the case, you will need to use the other available harness, part # 118551.

expert reply by: Michael H

click to enlarge

Larry M.

1/9/2013

I have a 2009 Ford Escape and I say, yes these relays are a great substitute for OE Ford relays. I went to two local Ford dealers looking for OE ones and they really didnt know anything about them. I had to give them the part number. They wanted about $30 each, but luckily neither dealer had them in stock.I ordered three TR38665s from etrailer and just plugged them in the fuse box and let there be light. You do need to also check that the corresponding fuses are in place - see owners manualThanks etrailer for providing this effective and economical alternative.