My new 2012 Ford Escape, built 6 Dec 2011, purchased on 19 Mar 2012, was flat towable according to dealer and owners manual. We installed tow hardware in May 2012. Transmission fluid level was checked as per owners manual, prior to towing. We were flagged by another driver on I-25 our TOWED vehicle was smoking. It was!! Had it flatbed towed to nearest Ford Service Center. Transmission was blown. Total tow mileage 185... Max speed 63 MPH.
Ford replaced the transmission and part of engine compartment wiring harness that melted. Was advised by transmission mechanic the 6F35 transmission has now been flagged by Ford as non-towable. Total mileage on Ford Escape, 625... Selling dealer said he would buy back as used vehicle.... Are they kidding ???
We laid out our needs/requirements when searching for a TOAD including the need to tow 4 wheels down. Dealer stated it is towable. Owners manual states it is towable. The transmission blew, so it now isn't towable. Really... !!
Harold Yarian, FMCA #F386187
