Connecting A Trailer Precautions - Ford ESCAPE 2021 Owner's Manual

CONNECTING A TRAILER
PRECAUTIONS
WARNING: Do not adjust the spring
bars so that your vehicle's rear bumper
is higher than before attaching the trailer.
Doing so will defeat the function of the
weight-distributing hitch, which may
cause unpredictable handling, and could
result in serious personal injury.
Do not tow a trailer until you drive your
vehicle at least 1,000 mi (1,600 km).
Do not use a hitch that either clamps onto
the bumper or attaches to the axle. You
must distribute the load in your trailer so
that 10-15% of the total weight of the
trailer is on the trailer coupler.
Consult your local motor vehicle laws for
towing a trailer.
See the instructions included with towing
accessories for the proper installation and
adjustment specifications.
Service your vehicle more frequently if you
tow a trailer. See Normal Scheduled
Maintenance (page 490).
If you use a rental trailer, follow the
instructions the rental agency gives you.
When attaching the trailer wiring connector
to your vehicle, only use a proper fitting
connector that works with the vehicle and
trailer functions.
Account for the trailer coupler weight as
part of your vehicle load when calculating
the total vehicle weight.
Do not exceed the load limits. See
Calculating the Load Limit (page 295).
Escape (CTC) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 02-11-2020, enUSA, Edition date: 202011, First-Printing
Connecting a Trailer
CONNECTING A TRAILER
Trailer Towing Connector
When attaching the trailer wiring connector
to your vehicle, only use a proper fitting
connector that works with the vehicle and
trailer functions.
Note: Install the waterproof protection cap
back onto the trailer towing connector
whenever it is not in use. This helps to
prevent water damage and trailer towing
connector malfunction.
Note: You cannot use a seven-pin trailer
wiring connector for your vehicle and the
trailer lighting equipment.
Trailer Lamps
Trailer lamps are required on most towed
vehicles. Make sure all running lights, brake
lights, turn signals and hazard lights are
working.
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E168683
WARNING: Never connect any
trailer lamp wiring to the vehicle's tail
lamp wiring; this may damage the
electrical system resulting in fire. Contact
your authorized dealer as soon as
possible for assistance in proper trailer
tow wiring installation. Additional
electrical equipment may be required.
(If Equipped)