How to Install a Trailer Hitch on a Ford Escape (2013-2019)
Adding a trailer hitch to a Ford Escape requires only a few tools, a Curt 13186 trailer hitch, and a short amount of time to complete the installation. This trailer hitch and installation process will work for the Ford Escape model years 2013-2019.
Follow these basic steps to begin hauling trailers and other kinds of hitch-mounted accessories with your Ford Escape today.
Tools needed:
- Safety Glasses
- Torque Wrench
- Tin Snips
- Air Saw
- Exhaust Pliers
- Impact Wrench
- 5” Extension
- 17mm, 13mm, 10mm Sockets
Ford Escape (2013-2019) hitch installation steps
1. Lower the Exhaust
Use a 13mm socket to assist in lowering the exhaust. Lower the exhaust bracket hanger using exhaust pliers. Trim a section of the heat shield to expose the attachment points for the trailer hitch.
2. Install the hardware
Check to see if the spacer and bolt head will fit through the access hole, if not modify the hole to accept hardware with the air saw. Feed spacers and carriage bolts into position using provided fish wire. Push only fasteners back into frame rail leaving fish wire and the extra wire sticking out of the frame rail.
3. Put hitch into position
The next step is to raise our hitch into position between frame rails. Feed fish wire through adjacent holes in the hitch.
4. Tighten and torque hitch
Use the 17mm socket, 5” extension, and torque wrench to tighten and then torque carriage bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
5. Raise Exhaust
The last step is to raise the exhaust and re-attach the exhaust brackets.
You should now have your trailer hitch installed on your Ford Escape.
Whatever vehicle you drive, we have a trailer hitch that will fit your needs. Don't have enough time to do the installation yourself? Schedule a professional trailer hitch installation and we'll do the work.
For more information visit uhaul.com, and be sure to check out more tips on trailer hitches.
How much does it cost to add a hitch for a Ford Escape (2013-2019)?
The price range of a hitch for a Ford Escape ranges from $150 to $205 U-Haul carries several different classes of hitches and offers different sizes to accommodate both 1¼ to 2-inch receivers. U-Haul offers both installation services at local U-Haul service centers and will ship your hitch to your home.
How much does it cost to have a hitch installed on a Ford Escape (2013-2019)?
Installation costs are normally under $100 but you should check with your local U-Haul Moving Center® as prices can differ based on location, the hitch model you are installing, and your vehicle. All U-Haul Moving Centers can install a hitch to your vehicle and with over 1,500 U-Haul centers throughout the country, you can have your hitch installed and be back on the road in no time.
All trailer hitches sold and installed at a U-Haul Moving Center® come with the option of a lifetime warranty plan guaranteed to replace your hitch with no limitation for any damage, including collision, corrosion, accidental overload, jackknifing, and vehicle theft.
How long does it take to install a hitch on a Ford Escape (2013-2019)?
Installation takes anywhere from 1 to 2 ½ hours depending on the hitch being installed and your vehicle. We recommend making an online appointment from our website to accommodate your busy schedule. In addition, U-Haul service centers offer an extensive line of towing accessories (Ball mount, Hitch ball, Pin, and Clip, Wiring) to help you safely tow your boat, camper, or trailer.
Do you need a wiring kit for Ford Escape (2013-2019)
If you are planning to tow a trailer or camper with brake lights, running lights, and turn signal, you will want a wiring kit to power the lights on your trailer. The most common lighting harness comes in a 4 pin and 7 pin connector. The 4- way connector has basic lighting functions (running lights, brake lights, turn signal) while the 7-way connector adds a 12-volt circuit, circuit for electric trailer brakes, and reverse lights. U-Haul offers both 4-way and 7-way connectors. Find out which option is best for your Subaru Forester.
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