Can a Chevy Sonic be flat towed behind an RV?
Flat towing, also known as dinghy towing, is a popular method for RV enthusiasts to bring along a smaller vehicle for use at their destination. If you own a Chevy Sonic and are considering flat towing it behind your RV, it’s essential to understand the specific requirements and limitations to ensure safety and avoid damage to your vehicle.
What Is Flat Towing?
Flat towing involves attaching a vehicle to the back of an RV using a tow bar, with all four wheels of the towed vehicle on the ground. This method is convenient because it eliminates the need for a trailer or dolly, making it a preferred choice for many RV owners. However, not all vehicles are designed to be flat towed, and attempting to tow an incompatible vehicle can lead to severe mechanical damage.
Can the Chevy Sonic Be Flat Towed?
The ability to flat tow a Chevy Sonic depends on the specific model and transmission type:
- Manual Transmission: The Chevy Sonic with a manual transmission can be flat towed without modifications. This is because manual transmissions are generally more tolerant of being towed with all four wheels on the ground.
- Automatic Transmission: The Chevy Sonic with an automatic transmission cannot be flat towed. Towing an automatic transmission vehicle with all four wheels on the ground can cause significant damage to the transmission due to a lack of proper lubrication while the engine is off.
Steps to Safely Flat Tow a Chevy Sonic (Manual Transmission)
If you have a Chevy Sonic with a manual transmission and plan to flat tow it, follow these steps to ensure safe towing:
- Check your owner’s manual for specific instructions and towing capacity limits.
- Ensure the vehicle is in neutral and the parking brake is disengaged.
- Securely attach the tow bar to the Sonic and the RV, following the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Connect the safety chains and wiring harness for brake lights and turn signals.
- Double-check all connections before starting your journey.
Alternatives for Automatic Transmission Models
If your Chevy Sonic has an automatic transmission, you have a few alternatives to flat towing:
- Use a Tow Dolly: A tow dolly lifts the front wheels of the vehicle off the ground, preventing damage to the transmission.
- Use a Trailer: A full trailer allows you to transport the Sonic with all four wheels off the ground, offering the highest level of protection.
Final Thoughts
While the Chevy Sonic with a manual transmission is a great candidate for flat towing, automatic transmission models require alternative methods to avoid damage. Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for towing. If you’re unsure or need assistance, feel free to contact a trusted auto repair shop like Kevin’s Autos for expert advice and support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What small vehicles can be flat towed?
Here are some great flat towable cars under 3,000 lbs:
- Fiat 500: Best Small RV Toad for a Couple. Photo Source: Fiat 500. Flat Towable Year: 2012 to 2019.
- Honda Fit: Best RV Dinghy Car for a Small Family. Photo Source: Honda Fit.
- Mini Cooper: Best Small Sports Car for Towing on Four. Photo Source: Mini Cooper.
What is the towing capacity of the Chevy Sonic?
Curb Weight: 2880 lbs. Wheelbase: 99.4 in. Overall Length: 173.9 in. Tow Capacity: 18500 lbs.
Do you need a braking system to tow a car behind an RV?
Do I need a braking system when towing a car? Yes, most states require auxiliary braking systems when towing to ensure safety. The system helps stop both the RV and the towed vehicle safely.
What is the lightest car to tow behind a motorhome?
The Smart Fortwo's lightweight design, uncomplicated flat-towing setup, and compact dimensions make it an unconventional yet practical choice for RVers seeking a smaller towed vehicle. Its maneuverability and ease of use add to its appeal as the lightest car to tow behind RV.
What Chevy can tow 5000 lbs?
Chevy Traverse
Chevy SUV Towing Capacity
| Vehicle | Maximum Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| Chevy Blazer | 4,500 pounds |
| Chevy Traverse | 5,000 pounds |
| Chevy Suburban | 8,300 pounds |
| Chevy Tahoe | 8,400 pounds |
What Chevy is flat towable?
What Chevy trucks can be flat towed? Any of the four-wheel-drive Chevy trucks with a two-speed transfer case system can be safely set up for flat towing. The answer to “can you flat tow a Chevy Silverado” is, yes, the 2019 and 2020 Silverado 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks can all be flat towed when properly equipped.
Why did Chevy discontinue the Sonic?
The new car is a larger version of the Chevrolet Bolt EV, which the plant currently produces alongside the Sonic. GM decided to axe the Sonic "due to declining demand," according to Soule. Since selling nearly 100,000 Sonics in 2014, sales have declined every year by between 15% to more than %.
Can you tow a Chevy Sonic behind an RV?
Best car to tow behind a motorhome
Some examples include select years of the Chevy Sonic, Ford Focus and Ford Fiesta. A car must have a transmission disconnect, steering lockout override and other features to be able to flat tow. Check the owner's manual before deciding if your car is safe to tow behind a motorhome.
Can a 2013 Chevy Sonic be flat towed?
A compact or subcompact car is one of the smaller and more lightweight vehicles you can flat tow behind your RV. There are tons of benefits to choosing to bring along a car like the Chevy Sonic or Ford Focus.
Does flat towing add miles?
If your car is equipped with a mechanical odometer, flat towing can indeed add mileage since the odometer is linked to the still-turning driveshaft. However, for vehicles with electronic odometers, mileage is typically not added during flat towing, given the odometer isn't attached to the driveshaft.
