Recommendation for a Bike Rack to Fit a 2015 Ford Escape Titanium Model

Question:

Hi - I just bought a 2015 Ford Escape Titanium model - the salesman said Id be able to use my trunk style ,3-bike rack. After reading the owner manual, it says I cant put a rack on. I contacted a Ford dealer and they said Id need to install a hitch - moving sensors as part of the install?. They said the hitch was $500, the install $300, and a rack another $200 at least. Does this sound right? Are there any non-hitch racks that can go on the 2015 Titanium Ford Escape?? Thanks for any help you can offer,

asked by: Patti

Expert Reply:

We carry trunk style bike racks, hitches, and hitch mounted bike racks that will fit the 2015 Ford Escape. I am sure we can find a solution to your problem.

I could not find in the 2015 Ford Escape owner's manual where it states that you cannot use a trunk mounted bike rack. Now, one of the installation tips on our site does say that interference and/or damage may occur if equipped with automatic rear wipers. But with that said, I do not see why your bike rack will not work on your Escape.

If you decide to install a hitch, we can definitely find one that will fit your 2015 Ford Escape. Draw-Tite has the Max-Frame Class III Trailer Hitch, # 75234. The Draw-Tite hitch has the 2 inch receiver opening that will allow you a larger selection of hitch accessories, like bike racks and cargo carriers. This hitch will be of the same quality or even better than the OEM hitch and will be way more economical.

I like the Swagman Trailhead 3 Bike Rack, # S63365, if you decide on a hanging bike rack. The Swagman will fit the 2 inch opening on the Draw-Tite hitch and can carry 3 bikes up to a total of 105 lbs or 35 lbs a bike. Also, if you are going to be carrying alternative frame or woman's bike, then I recommend using the Kuat UBar Adapter, # UB01. The adapter will give you a horizontal mounting surface to hand the bike on the bike rack.

Most local repair shops will install this hitch on your vehicle. I would call around to get a few quotes on installation. As for the sensors, the hands-free liftgate sensor areas will be limited to areas away from the center where hitch receiver opening is located, but relocation in most cases is not necessary.