A Ford Maverick Hybrid owner reported severe brake failure after flat-towing the vehicle for 100 miles, despite 15,000 miles of prior trouble-free towing. This incident has sparked warnings about potential risks when towing hybrids behind motorhomes. The owner, who had successfully towed the 2023 Maverick Hybrid behind a Leisure Travel Van for an extended period, discovered the issue upon unhitching the vehicle. Inspection revealed extreme heat damage to brake lines and calipers, rendering the brakes inoperable.
The owner had been towing the Maverick Hybrid behind a Leisure Travel Van for approximately 15,000 miles without any problems, before encountering the issue on the final day of an extended trip. After a routine 100-mile tow, the owner unhitched the vehicle only to find that the brakes were completely inoperable. The owner’s forum post highlighted the stark contrast between the previously smooth towing experience and this sudden, severe failure.
Insurance and Manufacturer Responses
The insurance company denied coverage, classifying the damage as mechanical failure rather than an accident. The auxiliary braking system manufacturer, Demco, also disputed responsibility, stating their system couldn’t cause such damage. According to the owner’s forum post, the insurance denial was based on the classification of the damage as a mechanical failure, leaving the owner to bear the repair costs. The ongoing dialogue with Demco has not yet yielded a resolution, further complicating the situation for the owner.
Forum members warned that prolonged heat exposure could compromise wheel bearings and CV axles, potentially increasing repair costs. They recommended installing a dedicated 12V charge line to maintain battery voltage and prevent electronic brake drag during towing. These warnings show the potential for extensive damage beyond the braking system, highlighting the importance of preventative measures.
Possible Causes of Brake Damage
While the exact cause remains unclear, theories include unintended brake application, issues with the supplemental braking system, or electrical fluctuations. The owner confirmed the Maverick was in Neutral Tow mode and the parking brake was disengaged during the tow. Despite these precautions, the braking system suffered severe heat buildup over the 100-mile trip. Ford, Demco, and the servicing dealership have not yet confirmed any specific cause for the failure.
Preventative Measures and Owner Recommendations
Owners believe this can prevent electronic brake drag and other voltage-related issues, though it’s not confirmed as a solution in this case. Owners also stressed the need to verify charging lines and brake calibration before trips. These checks can help avoid unexpected failures and costly repairs, especially when towing hybrids over long distances.
Blake Lowry covers a range of electric and hybrid vehicles, including the Ford Maverick Hybrid, Ford F-150 Lightning, Chevrolet Silverado EV, GMC Sierra EV, Rivian R1T, Ford F-150 PowerBoost, Chevy Bolt, and Slate Truck. Blake’s focus on these models reflects the growing interest in electric and hybrid vehicles among consumers, particularly those who value sustainability and innovation in their automotive choices.
