Recommended Parts to Flat Tow a 2012 Ford Escape XLT

Question:

Purchasing a Blue OX Aventa tow bar from private party. What accessories and tow bracket are required and what are my options to choose from? Do I really need a brake assist system too we live in OR but do travel to other states.? Thanks

asked by: Jim E

Expert Reply:

You will need a base plate to start with. For that you would need the part # BX2605 which is a confirmed fit for your 2012 Ford Escape and would work well with your Aventa.

For lighting you can use the diode kit, # RM-15267, and not have to worry about cutting into the taillight housing. This will splice into your taillight wiring to allow your tow vehicle to control the taillight assemblies of the towed vehicle. This comes with a round 6-way connector that you will install on the front of your towed vehicle and enough coiled wire to go from there to the RV.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking in the vehicle being flat towed. The easiest system to set up and use is the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR, that applies the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.

Most likely you will also need a high low adapter so that the tow bar will be level when you are flat towing. I attached a link to a page that has all of the ones we carry.

I have included a couple of helpful links to our articles on flat towing for you. Be sure to consult the vehicle owners manual for more specific information on flat towing your vehicle. We have read that Ford recently said that this vehicle is not flat-towable. We have also seen other places online say that if you use a lube pump in the transmission it will be fine.