How To Prepare Ford Edge For Towing

By Nick Marchenko, PhD

Updated: November 13, 2023

Your Ford is capable of many things. It was designed not just for transporting people from point A to point B, or to carry goods from the store to your home. Your Ford Edge is equipped to tow cargo, be it a trailer or another car.

While it might seem like a straightforward task, towing is a significant strain on the Ford Edge and carries a responsibility for the driver. 

Therefore, before you begin towing, it's important to prepare the Edge by installing the necessary equipment and ensuring it is in optimal condition, as your comfort and the safety of you and other road users depend on it.

Key Takeaways

• The Ford Edge's towing capacity is influenced by various factors, including engine size, transmission type, vehicle size and weight, drive type, and the vehicle's structure and design.
• Proper preparation of both the Ford Edge and the towed object is crucial, involving checks and adjustments to equipment, visibility, braking, engine health, fuel levels, and having emergency kits on hand.
• Adhering to specific guidelines and precautions based on the towed object is necessary, such as ensuring the weight is within the Edge's capacity and selecting the right towing method.
• Extra care is required when towing vehicles with different transmission types, with vehicles having automatic transmissions needing a tow dolly or trailer, and precautions to prevent transmission damage.

What is towing?

Towing involves pulling or hauling another object, typically a trailer, boat, or vehicle, using a Ford Edge.

To tow an object, you must connect a towing hitch or coupling device between the Ford Edge and the trailer.

Can any weight be towed by a Ford Edge?

Almost every Ford Edge model is capable of towing, with the primary difference being the amount of load it can safely handle.

The towing capacity of a Ford Edge is dependent on several factors, for instance:

Engine Size

The Ford Edge's towing capacity is linked to its engine power and torque. More powerful engines can handle heavier loads.

Transmission Type

Whether manual or automatic, the transmission type can affect the Edge's towing capacity. Automatic transmissions often have superior towing characteristics due to the design of the torque converter.

Size and Weight

Larger and heavier Edge models usually offer better towing capacity. Vehicles with a sturdy body-on-frame design provide greater rigidity for towing heavy loads.

Drive Type

The type of drive system in the Ford Edge, such as FWD (Front Wheel Drive), RWD (Rear Wheel Drive), or AWD (All-Wheel Drive), influences towing capacity. AWD and RWD models generally provide better towing due to more efficient power distribution.

Structure and Design

The robustness of the frame and the design of the Ford Edge, including its suspension and braking systems, significantly affects towing capability. Edge models with reinforced suspension and brakes are better equipped to handle towing stress.

How do you prepare a Ford Edge for towing?

Just like an athlete needs to prepare before a big race, your Ford Edge requires preparation before towing. The principles of safe towing apply universally, but specific considerations depend on whether you're pulling a trailer or another vehicle. Paying attention to these details ensures a smooth and safe towing experience.

Towing a trailer with a Ford Edge

When you're towing a trailer with your Ford Edge, it's not just about muscle and power—it's about smarts, safety, and making sure you're not biting off more than you can chew—or tow, in this case.

Know your Ford Edge's towing limits

Each model and trim of the Ford Edge comes with its own set of towing specs. You've got to respect these limits—they're there for a reason. Push too hard, and you might find yourself in a world of trouble, from mechanical breakdowns to safety hazards.

Check the weight of your trailer and load, then match it against your Edge's capabilities. You can find your Edge's towing capacity here.

Ensure your towing gear is up to snuff

Your Ford Edge needs the right equipment to tow safely. Here's what to check:

• Towing Hitch. The backbone of your towing setup. It's got to be sturdy and reliable.
• Trailer Brake Controller. This is your control center for keeping that trailer in line, especially when you hit the brakes.
• Towing Chain. The failsafe. If all else fails, this is what keeps your trailer hitched to your ride.

Make sure all equipment is in top condition, no exceptions.

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Double-check your mirrors

Good visibility isn't a luxury; it's a must. Adjust those mirrors to keep a clear view of your six. And consider getting special towing mirrors for a better field of view.

Brakes are non-negotiable

Brakes are your best friends on the road, especially when you're hauling extra weight. Give them a thorough check—pads, rotors, drums, fluid, the works.

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Headlights must be on point

Whether it's day or night, your headlights need to shine the way. Nothing less than bright, clear visibility will do. Make sure they're aimed right and burning bright.

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Tail lights can't be overlooked

You're not just towing—you're signaling your intentions to everyone else on the road. Make sure those tail lights are working like a charm.

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Give that engine the green light

Towing's tough on your engine, so give it a full checkup. You want it running smooth, no hiccups or stutters, and fully serviced before you set out.

Don't forget the suspension

The suspension's taking a lot of the load when you're towing. Inspect it, service it, and don't take any chances. A sound suspension means a smooth ride.

Inspect the gearbox

Towing is tough on the gearbox of your Ford Edge—it gets hotter than a July barbecue and is prone to wear. So, keep the load light and check that gearbox lubricant; change it if it's older than your favorite jeans.

Fill 'er up with more fuel

Towing's thirsty work for the Edge, and fuel economy drops faster than my ratings in the '90s. Expect 10-20% more fuel consumption depending on the load. So top off that tank, map out gas stations, and bring extra fuel—don't run dry out there!

Toolkit in the Car: Your Roadside Pit Crew

Keep a toolkit in your Edge like you're expecting a pit stop. Wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers—you name it. If your trailer throws a curveball, you'll be the relief pitcher.

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A First Aid Kit: Better Safe Than Sorry

Safety's no joke when you're towing. Pack a first aid kit with all the essentials—bandages, antiseptics, the works. It's your roadside safety net.

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Lock Down That Cargo Tight

Secure your haul on the platform like it's a priceless antique. Straps, cables, whatever it takes to keep it all in place. Proper load securing means you won't be the cause of a roadside magic act with disappearing cargo.

Balance and stability are your best friends when you're hauling with your Edge.

Trailer Checkup: Don't Skip This Step

Towing is a two-part harmony—your Ford Edge and the trailer. Half your safety show is the star behind you.

Before you hit the long and winding road, run through this trailer checklist:

• Trailer Brakes are a Must. Would you drive without brakes? Don't answer that. Make sure your trailer has a braking system—it's not just your car doing the heavy lifting.

The strain on your Edge's brakes can be like a high wire act without a net. The trailer's brakes should be your safety net, either in sync with your car's brakes or on their own system. Test 'em to ensure they're performance-ready;

• Suspension Check: No Bumps in the Show. Give the trailer's suspension the once-over. Look for wear, tear, and the dreaded rust on springs and shocks.

Everything should be snug and aligned like a good choreography. Deal with any issues before they upstage your towing gig;

• Lighting Check: Keep Your Act Visible. Trailer lights aren't just for show—they're the law. Check brake lights, signals, and running lights. Swap out any duds and clean up those connections.

Keeping your trailer lights in the spotlight means everyone sees your moves on the road;

• Hitch Inspection: The Link to Your Leading Act. The hitch is your trailer's lifeline to your Edge. Check it like you're looking for a needle in a haystack. Wear, corrosion, damage—find it before it finds you on the road.

Ensure it's all tight, the safety chains are ready to go, and lube the moving parts—it's like vocal cords for your towing duet.

Towing a Car with Your Ford Edge

If you're hitting the road with another car in tow, the same rules apply, but there are a few extra tricks to keep up your sleeve for car towing. Safety's not just a buzzword—it's your co-pilot here.

Ensure your towed vehicle isn't tipping the scales beyond what your Edge can handle.

Before you hook up another ride, check your Edge's manual—no, not for light reading. You're looking for the towing capacity. Go over that, and you're asking for trouble: sluggish steering, stressed-out engine, and a transmission begging for mercy. Find your Edge's towing limits here.

Consider the weight, size, and whether you're packing cargo or passengers in both your Edge and the car you're hauling.

Picking Your Towing Method

There's more than one way to tow a car:

• Strap it;
• Bar it;
• Trailer it;

Using a Tow Strap

Towing with a strap means you need a live body in the towed car to hit the brakes. No autopilot here, folks—the towed car can't stop on its own, so you need someone to play co-pilot.

Using a Tow Bar

Hooking up with a bar? The second car's along for the ride, with no driver needed. But remember, your Edge is stopping for two, which can really heat up those brakes.

On a Trailer

Strapping a car to a trailer is like giving it a first-class seat. But don't forget to add the weight of both the car and the trailer when you're tallying up those numbers for your Edge.

What's the Deal with the Transmission?

Got a manual? Shift it into neutral. Automatic? You're looking at a tow dolly or a trailer. No ifs, ands, or buts.

A tow dolly lifts those front tires off the ground, but it can't handle every car. Heavy front-wheel or all-wheel drives need not apply. And for four-wheel drives, just forget it.

For automatics, keep those driving wheels off the road. You want 'em still, silent, and not stirring up trouble in the transmission.

If you're in a pinch and can't use a trailer, disconnect the drive before you hit the road. It's like unplugging the fridge before a long vacation—nothing stirs until you say so.

Additional Gear You Might Want for Towing with Your Ford Edge

Alright folks, you've got the basics of towing down with your Ford Edge. But if you wanna go the extra mile and keep your Edge smiling, consider strapping on these upgrades. Check out these slick add-ons here.

Weight-Distributing Hitch

A weight-distributing hitch isn't just a fancy piece of metal—it's the unsung hero keeping your Edge and trailer in a harmonious ballet on the road. It evens out the load so your rear axle doesn't get all the spotlight and keeps your steering stable.

This little gizmo distributes the weight like a good manager, preventing your trailer from doing the tailgate tango. It's a must-have for heavier trailers to keep your ride smooth and your nerves calm.

Towing Mirrors

Ever wish you had eyes in the back of your head? Towing mirrors sorta make that happen. They extend your view, making sure you can see more than just your trailer's dance moves behind you.

These mirrors are like having a spotter when lifting weights—they keep you aware and safe. Essential for keeping an eye on your precious cargo without craning your neck.

Suspension Air Bags

Suspension airbags are like a good mattress for your Edge—they give your suspension the cushioning it needs when it's lugging around heavy stuff. They prop up your car's backend, preventing the dreaded sag and giving your suspension a break.

Transmission Radiator

Think of a transmission radiator as a personal AC for your gearbox. It keeps the transmission fluid cool as a cucumber, preventing your transmission from sweating under pressure.

Rearview Cameras

Rearview cameras give you the superpower to see right through your haul. They're the perfect co-pilot for backing up, parking, or just making sure everything's A-OK back there.

Roof Rails

Roof rails are like a Swiss Army knife for your Edge—versatile and ready for action. They're the go-to for strapping down anything that doesn't fit in the trunk, from snowboards to giant stuffed bears you win at the fair.

They're the unsung heroes of space management, giving you the freedom to pack more fun into every trip.

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The Final Lap

Getting your Ford Edge ready for towing isn't just about strapping on a trailer and hitting the road. It's about gearing up, checking the tech, and making sure you're not giving your Edge a tougher workout than it signed up for.

With the right setup, your Edge becomes a towing rockstar—safe, sound, and ready for any road trip jam session.