FORD 2012 Escape Hybrid - Manual (Page 206)

TRAILER TOWING
Trailer towing with your vehicle may require the use of a trailer tow
option package.
Trailer towing puts additional loads on your vehicle’s engine,
transmission, axle, brakes, tires and suspension. For your safety and to
maximize vehicle performance, be sure to use the proper equipment
while towing.
Follow these guidelines to ensure safe towing:
• Do not tow a trailer until your vehicle has been driven at least
1,000 miles (1,600 km).
• Consult your local motor vehicle laws for towing a trailer.
• Refer to the instructions included with towing accessories for the
proper installation and adjustment specifications.
• Thoroughly prepare your vehicle for towing. Refer to Preparing to
tow in this chapter.
• Stay within your vehicle’s load limits.
• Use extra caution when driving while trailer towing. Refer to Driving
while you tow in this chapter.
• Service your vehicle more frequently if you tow a trailer. Refer to
Special operating conditions in your scheduled maintenance.
For load specification terms found on the label and instructions on
calculating your vehicle’s load, refer to Vehicle loading - with and
without a trailer in this chapter. Remember to figure in the tongue load
of your loaded trailer when figuring the total weight.
WARNING: Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on
the certification label.
WARNING: Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended
gross trailer weight exceeds the limit of the vehicle and could
result in engine damage, transmission damage, structural damage, loss
of vehicle control, vehicle rollover and personal injury.
Tires, Wheels and Loading
206
2012 Escape Hybrid (ehv)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA (fus)