Towbar query

[Roganjosh]

Hi all, I am thinking of buying a new Ford Kuga with optional detachable towbar. If i do, will I be able to attach an AL-KO towball to it ? This is a £625 option. Should I perhaps consider having one fitted retrospectively by a specialist company? Any thoughts will be gratefully appreciated. Rogan

 

[WoodlandsCamper]

When you say detachable towbar it generally means only the tow hitch is removable. If this is a swan neck type then it is OK with an AL-KO hitch.

 

[carper2]

I bought a new Kuga in April and had a detachable witter towbar fitted by CDF Towbars for £358. I would have a look at a reputable fitter within your area. It does fit my 2012 Clubman SB which has an Alko hitch.

Les

 

[Tango]

The Factory Towbar includes Trailer Sway Control as part of the price. Most aftermarket towbar's don't include the required electronic connections for this to work, hence the difference in price!

 

[MichaelE]

For trailor sway control this is usually a software/programming change or in some cases a module change.
The dedicated wiring looms have all the connections you require.
Usually towbar companies don't have the tools to alter the settings so normally a trip to the dealer to program which will still be cheaper than a factory fitted one.

 

[carper2]

I was told that I would have to go back to the garage and have the computor updated. This would cost £45 which still makes it considerably cheaper than having it fitted by ford. I asked the dealership if they fitted towbars and they said they didn't. If I wanted them to fit it they would use CDF Towbars, which is the same one I have used for the last 30years.

Les

 

[intransient1]

I have a new kuga and had an aftermarket fixed towbar fitted for £250, which is enough to pay.
If you go for a removable one check to see if there are any maintenance / service checks required for it as the fittings can wear.