Are We Able to Install Trailer Hitch Ourselves on 2014 Ford Escape?

Question:

I have a 2014 Ford Escape that I want to get a hitch installed I have looked at your products but want to know are we able to install it ourselves or do we need to hire someone to install it. Also the hitch does it come with all the parts like wires and stuff to make sure they work?

asked by: Karlata

Expert Reply:

The install on our trailer hitches is something that etrailer.com prides itself on making simplified for our customers. Within our resources we have step-by-step professional install videos, help articles and lifetime technical support from the experts at etrailer.com.

The hitch I'm recommending can be installed yourself, but it depends on your technical ability. I recommend two people to help with the mounting of the hitch.

The Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver # 75782 is the best choice for your 2014 Ford Escape. There will be no limitations to your hands-free lift gate sensor areas after install.

There are a few key things to remember when your completing this install. The access holes may need to be enlarged by drilling, filing, or using rotary tool. The exhaust must be temporarily lowered for installation and the heat shield must be modified or trimmed for hitch installation. We have an install video attached to this article that show you this process step-by-step.

The wiring for the trailer hitch is sold separately. The T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector Item # 118566, provides a 4-way flat trailer connector at the back of your Ford Escape to power your trailer's signal lights. It includes a ModuLite to ensure that your Ford Escape's wiring matches that of your trailer. The plug-in location is behind driver and passenger side tail lights. I have a install video attached to this article that show you this process step-by-step.

The etrailer.com Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches # 989900 includes your ball mounts, hitch balls an pin and clips to secure your trailer.

If your trailer has brakes you will also need, in addition to the items above, Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller # ETBC7 and Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller # 90195. These products are a larger install process than the hitch but not impossible to do yourself. I have install videos attached to this help page, in order to gauge the install difficulty.

All of the products that are mentioned above, I have help guides and install video attached to help simplify this process.