Self Install vs. dealer/technician install
I'm getting ready to purchase a 2022 Ford Escape AWD hybrid for a daily driver and to tow 4 down behind my motorhome. I'm handy, but know my limits. The video for installation of the RoadMaster ...
Forum Discussion
BurbMan wrote:
The page 316 of the owner's manual for the 2022 Escape says ONLY the hybrid can be towed 4-down and it's very easy to do: simply go into the onboard menu and select "Neutral Tow". No other equipment like lube pump or driveshaft disconnect required.
Interesting that hybrid has this feature but the gas-only AWD and FWD versions say no towing ever unless on a full trailer. The hybrid must some sort of transfer case that combines gas and electric power that you can select into a neutral position like on 4WD trucks.
We flat towed a 2013 Ford Fusion hybrid for several years, was one of the easiest cars to flat tow and was designed very well for it. I miss that car, would buy another one if Ford hadn't quit making them, haha.
For the Fusion and Cmax hybrids, Ford used a CVT transmission that for whatever reason worked very well for flat towing. Just throw it in neutral and go, basically. Really cool thing as well was, power braking assist stayed on all the time with the Fusion hybrid (even when ignition off and flat towing). Sooo, auxiliary braking system I use (ReadyBrake) worked really well with it.
Not sure if the Escape hybrid uses a similar hybrid drivetrain or not, but glad to hear there are still a couple good options out there for flat towing other than the good ol' trusty Jeep Wrangler.
