Maximum Towing Capacity of a 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid with 2.3L Engine

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.

expert reply by: Conner L

Benjamin S.

1/14/2020

Curious about also adding a 7-pin plug for electrical. Your thoughts? Thanks! ????

Jason S.

1/17/2020

You can add those other features to your 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid. You will simply use the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness part # 118551 and then add the 7-Way RV Upgrade Kit # ETBC7L if you only want to add power or # ETBC7 if you want to have power as well as trailer brake controller connection.

Helpful Links

tv-install-trailer-wiring-2008-lincoln-mkx-118551.aspx

tv-review-etrailer-7-way-rv-upgrade-kit-etbc7l.aspx

tv-review-etrailer-universal-brake-controller-installation-kit-etbc7.aspx