The Ford Escape has become one of the best-selling, small sport-utility vehicles in America because of its low price and efficient design. The SUV's towing capacity means that it can tow heavy loads through treacherous terrain. You can attach a trailer hitch to your Escape in your driveway or garage after you purchase a kit and gather some tools.
Raise the vehicle with a jack and securely place support stands before you start working underneath the car. Lower the exhaust pipe by disconnecting the rubber hangers that hold it in place.
Pull the bolts from the installation kit that is included with your trailer hitch through the frame on both sides of the vehicle. Run a bolt leader through the bolt hole and out the access hole, then attach the bolt by screwing on the washer, and pull the leader back through until the bolt rests inside the bolt hole.
Install the hitch using the two bolts first, with help from another person. Tighten the bolts so that the hitch is aligned with the other bolt holes. Pull the rest of the bolts through the frame and screw them into the hitch. Do this on both sides. With the last couple of bolts, you may have to move the hitch slightly because the holes might not be lined up exactly. Wiggle the hitch to align the holes so you can slide the bolt through. Tighten each bolt.
Replace the rubber hangers and reconnect the exhaust pipe to the frame. Lower the vehicle from the support stands.
