Flat towing a hybrid

[Odetymes]

I just purchased a 2024 Ford Escape Hybrid as it was one of the only vehicles approved for flat towing (still not sure). Research prior to buying a vehicle revealed how many car manufactures contridict themselves about towing so I made sure that "flat tow was approved" was written in the purchase contract. My question is does anyone have the same vehicle and how successful have you been with the towing? Also, any tips of things to be aware of?

Finally, I was quoted about $6000 to put install the towing system for the car. After I picked myself up off the floor I now have to decide will I get that much use to invest that much? Are these prices high or any suggestions? Living in the Reno, Nv area it has been suggested to get estimates from larger cities. Thoughts and thanks to all!

 

[Sealyn]

You can check hardware prices at etrailer.com, they also have installation videos and links to installers.

 

[MarkMaxPayne]

You can save a ton of money if you are willing and able to do the work yourself. I ordered my equipment from etrailer.com which included the base plate, wiring kit, and then my Invisibrake (now replaced with an Air Force One after I upgraded my rig to a Newmar New Aire with air brakes). Given what it can take to remove and remount front bumpers, route wires from the front of the vehicle to the rear lights, etc., the hours can add up. For me it was a solid 15-16 hours of labor (a full Saturday and Sunday), but I'm not a professional mechanic with a lift and professional tools, and knowledge so they can probably do it in a half day (like 3x faster than me). The videos that etrialer provides and others on YouTube are pretty much step by step, but I was really stiff for the rest of the week.

Best,
-Mark

 

[BGMAC]

I went on EBay and Facebook marketplace to pick the tower and break system up. I believe I only had less than $250 in the whole setup. Wiring and other things I got from etrailer

 

[JRS]

I bought my baseplate and wiring harness from etrailer too. Per Mark above, if you're somewhat handy there might be some good videos on how to install the stuff. Excellent one's for my Grand Cherokee allowed me to do mine and I had to take the entire front panel off.