Can The 2012 Ford Escape XLS FWD Be Flat Towed  

Question:

Expert Reply:

According to the online owner's manual for a 2012 Ford Escape your XLS FWD is capable of being flat towed. I highly recommend reviewing your manual to ensure you follow all the steps listed to safely tow your vehicle.

To flat tow your vehicle you will need a tow bar, base plate, tow bar wiring kit, braking system and safety cables. I have the following recommendations for you below:

Tow Bar: Roadmaster Falcon All Terrain, Non-Binding Tow Bar # RM-522. This tow bar features non-binding latches and a large hookup radius to make connecting/disconnecting your vehicle to/from your motorhome easy peasy.

Base Plate: Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # 4414-3. These direct-connect attachment points make connecting and disconnecting from your tow bar quick and easy. The removable arms provide a clean unobtrusive look when not in use.

Tow Bar Wiring Kit: Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit # RM-15267. This diode kit allows you to use your Ford Escape's tail lights and wiring system while preventing feedback from your RV. It includes a 7-wire to 6-wire Flexo-Coil electrical cord that is resistant to water, oil, chemicals, and has silicone-injected plugs to prevent corrosion.

Braking System: Brake Buddy Select 3 Portable Supplemental Braking System - Proportional # HM39524. This system offers intense, emergency braking or steady, smooth braking in a single portable system. Easily switch between proportional or full braking from your motorhome using the remote. The included charge line kit will prevent your vehicle's battery from draining while you tow.

Note: The # RM-88400 relay is required to prevent the towed vehicle's brake signal from overriding the turn signal from the RV when applying the brakes during a turn. It is not required when using magnetic tow lights.

Safety Cables: RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables - 6,000lbs # RM-643. The coiled design of these cables will help prevent them from dragging on the ground and being damaged.

You may also require a high/low adapter to keep your tow bar level between your motorhome and vehicle. This will require some measuring so I've attached our help article which will walk you through the steps.

expert reply by: Kevin C

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