2017 Ford Escape Accessories & Upgrades

This page originally read like an Amazon shopping list. I think the better question is: what actually makes a 2017 Escape easier to live with? After years with Alice, I would put fitment, safety and everyday value ahead of collecting accessories just because they exist.

Floor liners and cargo protection

Good floor and cargo liners are among the additions I would consider first for an older Escape, especially in wet or snowy climates. Fit matters more than branding. Ford specifically warns that the driver's floor mat must be secured to both retention devices so it cannot move into the pedal area.

In the rear, a raised-edge cargo liner works well for wet boots, groceries and camping gear. If you frequently carry loose items, a soft organizer can keep them from sliding around without permanently changing the cargo area.

Phone mount and charging

A phone mount works well when it does not block the windshield, climate controls or vents. The Escape's 12V outlets can also power ordinary small accessories, but there is a real vehicle limit: Ford lists 12V DC, 180 watts maximum and a maximum current rating of 15 amps for the power point.

If an outlet is already dead, do not assume the charger is the problem. The 12V power outlet guide covers the relevant circuits and troubleshooting clues.

Dash camera

A dash camera can provide a record of what happened on the road. I would prioritize a clean installation, a clear view and wiring that does not interfere with airbags, pedals or visibility. If you are not comfortable routing wiring around trim and safety systems, have it installed properly.

Roof crossbars and cargo carriers

This is an area where generic “fits Ford Escape” listings are not enough. Ford's 2017 owner information lists a maximum recommended load evenly distributed on the crossbars of:

• 100 lb (45 kg) for vehicles without a moonroof.
• 45 lb (20 kg) for vehicles with a moonroof.

Ford also says not to place loads directly on the roof panel. Use crossbars designed for the vehicle and remember that the weight of the carrier itself is part of the load.

Roof boxes and racks can also reduce fuel economy. If you only use one a few times a year, removing it when it is not needed can help. See the fuel-economy guide for the official EPA ratings and factors that move real-world mileage.

Tow hitch and bike-rack accessories

A receiver can help with a compatible bike rack or for towing when the Escape is properly equipped, but installing a hitch does not change the vehicle's Ford tow rating. The 2017 rating depends on engine, drivetrain and the factory trailer towing package.

Before buying towing hardware, check the 2017 Escape towing and payload guide. For a bike rack, verify the rack, receiver and vehicle limits together rather than looking at only one number.

Wheels and appearance upgrades

Wheels can change the look of an Escape quickly, but fitment is more than bolt pattern. Wheel diameter, width, offset, center bore, tire size, brake clearance and load rating all matter. Start with the wheel and bolt-pattern guide, lug-nut guide and wheel-torque specification.

I would avoid wheel spacers, extreme fitments or anything that turns a cosmetic change into a steering, clearance or bearing problem.

Cabin and road-trip accessories

The best cabin accessories are usually the boring ones you actually use:

• a windshield sunshade for hot parking lots;
• a compact cargo organizer;
• a tire-pressure gauge;
• a small flashlight;
• an ice scraper and snow brush in winter;
• a basic first-aid kit and emergency contact information.

For cabin comfort and feature-specific issues, see the interior guide, cabin air filter, heated-seat troubleshooting and SYNC/infotainment guide.

Accessories I would be cautious about

• Universal floor mats that can move near the pedals.
• Plug-in “performance chips” with vague claims.
• Lighting conversions that change beam pattern or create electrical faults.
• Very large wheels or tires chosen only for appearance.
• Roof or towing accessories with no clear load rating or vehicle fitment.
• Anything that interferes with airbags, seatbelts, visibility or vehicle controls.

How I would prioritize upgrades on a used Escape

On a used 2017 Escape, I would spend money in this order: maintenance first, worn tires/brakes/battery second, comfort and protection third, and cosmetic upgrades last. A good set of floor liners is nice, but it is not more important than catching up on neglected service.

The used Escape buyer's guide and maintenance schedule are better places to start if the vehicle is new to you.