Can You Flat Tow a Ford Escape?

It depends on the model. Ford endorses towing certain Escapes behind an RV but prohibits flat towing for others.

Check out the chart below for a synopsis of what the Ford Escape owner's manuals have to say (note: you should always double check flat towing instructions in your owner's manual).

Model

Flat Towable

Restrictions

Ford Escape 2001-2005

Manual transmissions endorsed. NO automatics.

75 mph

Ford Escape 2006-2008

Manual transaxles endorsed. NO automatics.

70 mph

Ford Escape Hybrid 2008

Endorsed.

75 mph

Ford Escape 2009-2012

Front wheel drive & 4WD endorsed.

70 mph for manual; 65 mph for automatics

Ford Escape 2013-2019

Prohibited.

Ford Escape 2020

Automatic HF45 (hybrid transmission) endorsed; 8-speed automatic 8F35 and 8F24 prohibited.

70 mph

Ford Escape 2021-2023 Hybrid/Plug-in

Endorsed.

70 mph

Ford Escape 2021-2023

Prohibited.

Keep in mind that there are liability issues if you choose to flat tow against the manufacturer’s advice. Your risks include:

You’ll void your warranty - If your vehicle is under warranty, you’ll need to determine if flat towing is worth losing your coverage.
Insurance might not cover accident claims - If the worst happens while flat towing your vehicle, your insurance company may choose not to cover your claim, since you are not using the vehicle the way the manufacturer intended.
Lawsuits - This is an extreme example, but if your flat-towed vehicle is responsible for loss of life or property damage, you could be held legally liable.

Alternative Options

Some models may be towable with a tow dolly. Other models must be transported via flatbed trailer or tow truck. Check your owner’s manual for specific advice for your particular model.

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Written by: Amber S.

Updated on: 1/3/23

David

7/25/2023

2023 Ford Escape Hybrids, both FWD and AWD?

Mike L.

8/3/2023

@David From what I could find in the owner's manual, the 2023 Escape hybrid can be flat towed using the 'Neutral Tow' feature, but the owner's manual didn't seem to make a distinction between the FWD and the AWD vehicle, so I'd recommend checking with your Ford dealer for confirmation.

David

8/3/2023

@MikeL The online manual is rather obtuse in its language, but finally confirms that both the hybrids can be flat towed.

Jack

7/1/2024

@David I have flat towed my 2020 Ford Escape hybrid for over 2 yrs. It’s wonderful!

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