Maximum Towing Capacity of a 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid with 2.3L Engine
Updated 01/17/2020 | Published 03/22/2018
Question:
Hello. I have a 2008 Ford Escape. Its a hybrid SUV. I4 Atkinson-Cycle. Electric motor, 16v. Its a 2.3L. Can it tow a 4,500 lb trailer?
asked by: Alexander
Expert Reply:
According to the owner's manual, the maximum towing capacity of your 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid with the 2.3L engine is 1,500 lbs. Therefore, I cannot recommend you use this vehicle to tow a 4,500 lb trailer. If you find a trailer within the above capacity then you will need a trailer hitch, trailer wiring, and ball mount/hitch ball in order to tow it.
For a trailer hitch, I recommend using the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 75751 which is Class III rated and has a 2" receiver tube opening. Then for a wiring harness, I recommend the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness part # 118551 which is an almost completely plug and play option. Lastly, I recommend using the Ball Mount Kit part # 989900 as long as the rise/drop of the included ball mounts match your vehicle/trailer. You can use the attached help article to determine this.
I have also attached an install video of both the hitch and harness for you to see as well.
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on Trailer Hitch
Benjamin S.
1/14/2020
Curious about also adding a 7-pin plug for electrical. Your thoughts? Thanks! ????