My neighbor is looking at a 2005 Escape AWD. He asked if these can be flat towed.They want to be able to pull it behind there R.V.Does anyone know? I know there where issues with the 2009 and newer but then I dont recall if those where FWD or AWD. Any input would be great.Thanks

 

As a general rule, never flat tow an AWD vehicle with an automatic transmission UNLESS special equipment is installed.

The problem is the pump that circulates transmission fluid runs off the input shaft from the engine. Without the engine running, no fluid circulates and damage occurs.

If the Escape has a manual transmission, then it can be towed.

http://www.lichtsinn.com/pdfs/dinghy-guide-2005.pdf

 

Not sure with the year model you have, but I bought my 2010 Tribute because they said you could flat tow it (has auto and is AWD).
First time I towed it to Moab, UT from central AZ the tranny went out. It was under warranty and the local Ford dealer in Moab wouldn't touch it, wanted me to take it to somewhere near Salt Lake City to a Mazda dealer. I towed it back home and the local Ford/Mazda dealer replaced the transmission no cost to me.
Since then I have been afraid to tow it anymore, so when I traded my 2006 Super crew F150 for the 2009 Ranger and had them install the Remco drive line disconnect in it as part of the trade. It tows fine.
Bad news was I spent money to get the tow plate installed in the Tribute and the wiring changes for naught and then had to do it again for the Ranger.
BTW, I have talked to other Escape owners (Same general year models- 2010 to about 2012+/-) who also had transmissions that went out while towing, and had them replaced under warranty.