Last Updated on July 6, 2025
You can flat tow a Ford Edge, primarily 2017 or earlier models, but you must confirm your specific model’s drivetrain type first. AWD requires special preparation, like setting the transmission to neutral and managing battery drain, while FWD models are generally easier to tow.
Proper equipment such as a baseplate, tow bar, and wiring kit, is essential to protect your vehicle. Towing capacities vary by engine and package, so understanding limits is vital. The following details outline all requirements and steps to tow safely.
Key Takeaways
- Flat towing a Ford Edge is mainly possible for 2017 and earlier models with specific drivetrain configurations.
- AWD Ford Edge models require special preparation and proper instructions for flat towing.
- FWD Ford Edge models are generally suitable for flat towing without additional constraints.
- Confirm flat towing capability using Ford’s official Fleet website or VIN-specific guides before towing.
- Prepare vehicle by shifting transmission to Neutral, disengaging parking brake, and managing battery drain.
Ford Edge Model Years and Flat Towing Compatibility
Although flat towing is a convenient option for many SUV owners, you should know that the Ford Edge’s compatibility varies considerably by model year. It is essential to understand the vehicle’s drivetrain configuration to ensure safe flat towing.
Models from 2017 and earlier generally support flat towing with all four wheels on the ground, especially those equipped with a V6 engine, regardless of AWD or FWD. However, 4-cylinder engines and ST trims in these years aren’t recommended for flat towing.
Starting with the 2018 model year, Ford advises against flat towing the Edge due to design and drivetrain changes. It is important to note that flat towing requires specific transmission, transfer case, and driveline configurations to prevent vehicle damage.
To confirm your specific vehicle’s flat towing capability, consult Ford’s official Fleet website or the RV & Trailer Towing Guides by entering your VIN or selecting your year, make, and trim. This guarantees you avoid mechanical damage caused by incompatible towing.
Safety Precautions for Flat Towing a Ford Edge
Before flat towing your Ford Edge, disconnect the battery or use a toad charger to prevent electrical drain during transit.
Always verify that the trailer weight doesn’t exceed the vehicle’s specified towing capacity to maintain safe handling and prevent damage. Choosing the right towing capacity based on your vehicle’s specifications is essential for safety.
Additionally, consult the owner manual to confirm if your Ford Edge is approved for flat towing compatibility before attempting this towing method. Adhering to these precautions guarantees both vehicle integrity and towing safety.
Battery Disconnection Guidelines
When you flat tow a Ford Edge, disconnecting the battery is essential to prevent electrical drain caused by accessories or onboard electronics drawing current. Start by turning off all accessories—lights, radio, climate control, and charging ports.
Then, with the vehicle stationary, use insulated tools to disconnect the negative battery terminal, guaranteeing you avoid contact with metal to prevent sparks. Secure the disconnected cable away from the terminal to avoid accidental reconnection. It is important to note that owner’s manual instructions may specify additional precautions or procedures for flat towing.
Check battery terminals beforehand for tightness and corrosion. For long trips, this step prevents a dead battery since the alternator won’t recharge while towing. Using high-quality motor oil can also contribute to overall engine health during towing.
Some models allow accessory mode briefly; consult your owner’s manual. Alternatively, a battery isolator or trickle charger can maintain charge without disconnection. Always follow Ford’s specific guidelines for your model year to ensure safety and battery integrity.
Trailer Weight Limitations
Because trailer weight directly impacts your Ford Edge’s performance and safety, adhering to engine-specific towing limits is critical. The 2.0L EcoBoost I4 with the Class II Trailer Tow Package supports up to 3,500 lbs, while the 3.5L V6 (FWD/AWD) also maxes out at 3,500 lbs with the package.
However, the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 AWD isn’t rated for towing, lacking factory-installed towing equipment and limited by cooling constraints. Always verify your vehicle has the required Class II Trailer Tow Package for trailers over 1,500 or 2,000 lbs, depending on the engine.
Using a tongue weight scale ensures your trailer’s hitch load stays within safe limits, preventing imbalance and improving control. Exceeding these limits risks drivetrain damage, brake wear, and compromised control.
Many Ford Edge owners report successful flat towing experiences over long distances, demonstrating the importance of following manufacturer guidelines for towing experience.
Regularly inspect your hitch and connections, and confirm your trailer’s loaded weight doesn’t surpass your Edge’s maximum towing capacity to maintain safe flat towing conditions.
Required Equipment for Flat Towing
Although flat towing a Ford Edge might seem straightforward, you’ll need specific equipment to guarantee safety and compliance. First, install a compatible baseplate like the Blue Ox #BX2677 to secure the connection, paired with a tow bar such as the Blue Ox Alpha (#BX7380) featuring non-binding, self-centering design.
Safety cables are mandatory for fail-safe attachment. The base plates typically sit approximately 16-1/2 inches above ground, which is important to note for proper installation and alignment. Ensuring the correct load capacity of all towing components is critical for a safe towing experience.
Address height differences with a high/low adapter if needed. Next, equip a tow bar wiring kit, for example, the Roadmaster #RM-15247 diode kit, to integrate taillights properly and prevent electrical issues—disconnecting the battery negative terminal or using an automatic disconnect ensures further protection.
Additionally, a supplemental braking system is essential to assist braking and comply with legal requirements. Finally, review drivetrain protection needs based on the model to avoid transmission damage during flat towing.
Step-by-Step Flat Towing Procedures
Before you begin flat towing your Ford Edge, verify that your specific model year supports flat towing and prepare the vehicle accordingly by setting the transmission to neutral and disabling the battery if required.
Next, confirm you have the essential towing equipment properly rated and securely connected, including the tow bar, safety chains, and electrical plugs. Using equipment made from durable materials ensures safety and longevity during towing.
It is also important to perform a pre-tow safety check, such as verifying that the electronic parking brake is fully disengaged and that the wheels turn freely before towing. These preparatory steps are critical for safe and effective flat towing.
Pre-Towing Vehicle Preparation
When preparing your Ford Edge for flat towing, you’ll need to verify its towing eligibility to prevent damage and guarantee safety. Start by checking the model year; 2017 and earlier are generally approved for flat towing, while newer models aren’t recommended.
Consult the Ford Fleet website or your Owner’s Manual for specific towing guides and restrictions. Note that the owners manual confirms that AWD models can be flat towed but requires following detailed instructions.
Proper setup and precautions are essential to ensure the vehicle remains stable during transit and to avoid damage to the drivetrain or electrical system. Confirm if your vehicle is AWD or FWD, as AWD models may have additional constraints.
Follow these steps before towing:
- Shift the transmission to Neutral and disengage the parking brake.
- Turn the ignition to the ACC position to release the steering wheel and enable electrical circuits without starting the engine.
- Manage battery usage by installing a disconnect switch or charge line kit to prevent battery drain during towing, as maintaining power is crucial for vehicle electrical stability.
Essential Towing Equipment
After confirming your Ford Edge’s readiness for flat towing, the next step involves equipping the vehicle with the proper hardware and systems to guarantee safe and effective towing.
Start by installing a compatible baseplate, such as the Blue Ox #BX2677 for 2021 models, securely attached about 16.5 inches above ground to match tow vehicle height. Using brake pads with superior stopping power enhances overall safety during towing.
Connect the Blue Ox Alpha #BX7380 tow bar, ensuring safety cables are crossed beneath it.
Next, install a wiring kit like Roadmaster #RM-15247 to link taillights, and use a push-button battery disconnect to prevent electrical damage. It is important to remember that the engine and transmission configurations determine if your Ford Edge can be safely flat towed.
Incorporate a supplemental braking system compatible with your Ford Edge, adhering to local laws. Finally, verify height alignment within a 3-inch range to maintain stability and prevent equipment stress during towing.
Understanding Towing Capacity and Limitations
Although the Ford Edge offers diverse engine and trim options, understanding their specific towing capacities and limitations is essential for safe and efficient towing.
Your choice of engine either the 2.0L EcoBoost or the more powerful 2.7L EcoBoost V6 directly affects towing capacity, with the latter supporting up to 3,500 pounds. Selecting tires with the appropriate load capacity is critical to ensure stability when towing heavy loads.
Additionally, trims and packages play a vital role.
- Standard trims like SE and SEL tow up to 1,500 pounds without the Class II Trailer Tow Package.
- Equipped trims with this package, including ST and Titanium, increase capacity to 3,500 pounds.
- Trailer Sway Control enhances stability but only with proper towing equipment installed.
The Class II Trailer Tow Package includes features such as a wiring harness and hitch receiver that enable safer and more effective towing. Always adhere to manufacturer guidelines, as exceeding limits risks vehicle damage and safety hazards.
Resources for Flat Towing Information and Support
Knowing your Ford Edge’s towing capacity sets the foundation, but accessing accurate flat towing information and support guarantees you apply that knowledge properly.
Start with official Ford Fleet websites, where you enter your VIN to retrieve model-specific towing guides. Owner’s manuals and online forums like Monacoers.org provide practical tips and real user feedback. Dealerships offer professional evaluations and services to prepare your vehicle safely for flat towing.
Because the Ford Edge is designed for flat towing, ensuring you follow the proper towing setup is essential for safe transport. Additionally, understanding maintenance and contamination signs can help you recognize when your vehicle system needs attention after towing.
| Resource Type | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Official Ford Fleet | VIN-based guides, flat towing eligibility |
| Community Forums | User experiences, model year-specific advice |
| Dealership Support | Vehicle prep, professional guidance, installation |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Flat Tow a Ford Edge With a Manual Transmission?
You can flat tow a Ford Edge with a manual transmission only if it’s an older model, typically 2017 or earlier, and you follow the exact procedures in the owner’s manual.
Newer models usually aren’t designed for flat towing, risking damage. Make sure the transmission is in neutral to prevent drivetrain issues. Always check Ford’s official towing guides or your vehicle’s manual before flat towing to avoid costly repairs.
Is Flat Towing a Ford Edge Safe in Cold Weather?
Flat towing in cold weather demands extra caution. You’ll need to monitor tire pressure closely, as cold reduces inflation and stiffens rubber, increasing mechanical stress. Avoid cruise control on icy roads and make certain your trailer’s electric brakes work properly.
Also, disconnect the battery to prevent electrical issues. Keep an eye on transmission and brake fluid viscosity, since thickened fluids impair function. Always reduce speed and increase stopping distance for safety in these conditions.
What Is the Impact of Flat Towing on Ford Edge Fuel Efficiency?
When you flat tow a Ford Edge, its own fuel efficiency becomes irrelevant since the engine isn’t running. However, the added weight (~4,000 lbs) and aerodynamic drag increase fuel consumption in the towing vehicle, reducing its MPG by about 0.5 to 1 mile per gallon.
Factors like speed, terrain, and tow rig affect this impact. You should plan for modest fuel economy loss and verify you stay within gross combined weight ratings to prevent excessive strain.
Can Aftermarket Modifications Affect Flat Towing Capability?
Think of your vehicle’s drivetrain as a delicate clockwork; any aftermarket tweaks can disrupt its smooth ticking. When you modify transmission, suspension, or brake systems, you risk impairing flat towing capability.
Changes like altered gear ratios, electronic parking brakes, or lifted suspension affect neutral gear function, rolling resistance, and tow bar alignment. So, if you want safe flat towing, guarantee your mods don’t interfere with your vehicle’s precise mechanical and electronic balance.
Protect Your Investment with the Right Towing Setup
Before you hook up your Ford Edge for flat towing, picture a seamless connection with wiring, base plates, and safety chains all secured with precision. Remember, not every model year fits the bill, so verify compatibility first.
Follow exact procedures to protect your vehicle’s drivetrain and ensure safe travels. With the right equipment and careful attention to towing limits, you’ll confidently glide down the road, knowing your Ford Edge is prepared for the journey behind you.
