Towing Capacity and Parts Needed to Tow Trailer with 2017 Ford Escape

Updated 07/03/2019 | Published 07/02/2019

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(451)

$228.56

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

(132)

$73.20

Question:

We drive a 2017 Ford Escape SE 2.0l and I need to know the towing capacity. I keep finding different answers online. We are trying to buy a pop up camper and need to make sure we know what the weight limit needs to be or to find out if it is even an option.

asked by: Erich C

Expert Reply:

Based on my research your 2017 Ford Escape with the 2.0L engine has a towing weight capacity of 3,500 pounds if it's equipped with the Class II factory tow package or 2,000 pounds if it's not. If you are unsure if you have the tow package I recommend contacting your local Ford dealer with the vehicle's VIN and they should be able to tell you this. It's also a good idea to verify the towing capacity in your copy of the owner's manual or ask the dealer this as well.

In order to pull even a light pop-up camper you will need a trailer hitch, wiring harness, and a ball mount/hitch ball combo. I will make my recommendations below if you don't have some or all of these items.

For a trailer hitch I really like the etrailer.com Class III # e98866 because of its sleek hidden cross-tube design that allows only the 2 inch receiver to be visible (see attached image) and unique matte black finish that offers a rugged appearance and is more resistant to scratches. I have attached an installation video that you can also use for reference.

Then for a wiring harness I recommend the Curt T-Connector # C56320 that's specifically designed for your SE model Escape and will plug into factory ports behind the passenger and driver side tail lights. This will provide you with a 4-Way connector to power a trailer's basic signal lights.

When choosing a ball mount it is important to determine what kind of rise or drop you need to keep the trailer level when connected. I have attached a great article that explains exactly how to do this along with a link that will take you to our available selection.

expert reply by: Chris R