Can you flat tow a FWD vehicle?
Flat towing, also known as dinghy towing, is a popular method for transporting vehicles behind RVs or other vehicles without the need for a trailer. However, not all vehicles are suitable for flat towing, especially front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicles. In this article, we will explore the considerations and guidelines for flat towing a FWD vehicle, ensuring you have the right information before hitting the road.
Understanding Flat Towing
Flat towing involves towing a vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. This method is commonly used for recreational vehicles (RVs) because it allows for easy maneuverability and saves space. However, the ability to flat tow a vehicle depends on its drivetrain configuration and manufacturer recommendations.
Can You Flat Tow a FWD Vehicle?
Yes, you can flat tow a front-wheel drive vehicle, but there are important factors to consider:
- Manufacturer Guidelines: Always check the owner's manual for your specific vehicle. Some FWD vehicles are designed for flat towing, while others may require modifications or are not recommended for this method at all.
- Transmission Type: Vehicles with automatic transmissions often have restrictions on flat towing. If your FWD vehicle has an automatic transmission, it may need to be placed in neutral and have the engine running periodically to prevent transmission damage.
- Distance and Speed: If flat towing is permitted, be mindful of the distance and speed limits. Many manufacturers recommend not exceeding certain speeds (usually around 65 mph) and distances (often limited to 500 miles) to avoid potential damage.
- Additional Equipment: You may need additional equipment such as a tow bar, safety chains, and a braking system to ensure safe towing.
Steps to Prepare Your FWD Vehicle for Flat Towing
To ensure a smooth flat towing experience, follow these steps:
- Consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific flat towing instructions.
- Ensure the vehicle is in neutral and the parking brake is disengaged.
- Attach the tow bar securely to both the towing vehicle and the FWD vehicle.
- Check that all lights and signals are functioning properly.
- Perform a test drive to ensure everything is secure before embarking on your journey.
Conclusion
Flat towing a front-wheel drive vehicle is possible, but it requires careful consideration of the vehicle's specifications and manufacturer guidelines. By following the proper steps and ensuring your vehicle is equipped for towing, you can enjoy the convenience of flat towing without risking damage to your vehicle. Always prioritize safety and consult with a professional if you have any doubts about the towing process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you tow a FWD car?
Using An Axle Lock
Once your front axle is unlocked, you can safely begin to tow your vehicle without causing catastrophic damage to your transmission. After the tow has been completed, a twist in the opposite direction will connect your axles back to the transmission, making it safe to drive again.
Can a front wheel drive car be towed from the back?
It's generally not a good idea to tow a car from the back with the front wheels on the ground unless there's some way to lock the wheels in-line as if they aren't, it's going to end in an accident. Given a front wheel drive car, then the obvious thing is to tow it forwards using a tow dolly under the front wheels.
Can you tow a FWD car in neutral?
If your vehicle is a front-wheel drive, and automatic:
If all four wheels are on the ground, your vehicle must be equipped with a proper towing device, to keep the transmission from turning without proper lubrication. Simply putting the vehicle in neutral will not prevent it from sustaining damage.
Can you flat tow a FWD?
Many front-wheel drive, manual transmission vehicles may be flat towed without modification. Typically, a car with rear-wheel drive and a manual transmission or four-wheel drive with a manual transfer case that can be placed in neutral can be flat towed.
What is the easiest vehicle to tow behind a motorhome?
Best car to tow behind a motorhome
Compact and subcompact cars are the best cars for flat towing. 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.
Does towing a car in neutral damage it?
When a car is being towed, the wheels on the ground will be turning, which can cause damage to the transmission if the car is not in neutral. Putting the car in neutral disengages the transmission from the wheels, allowing it to be safely towed without causing any harm.
Can you flat tow a FWD car?
Many front-wheel drive, manual transmission vehicles may be flat towed without modification. Typically, a car with rear-wheel drive and a manual transmission or four-wheel drive with a manual transfer case that can be placed in neutral can be flat towed.
Is it safe to tow a car in neutral?
On the towing issue, your dad was correct that a car with an automatic transmission should not be towed with its driven wheels on the ground, even in neutral. The reason you can't do it is because the driven wheels on the ground will turn the drive shaft, which will turn the internal parts of the transmission.
Can you flat tow a front-wheel-drive?
Many front-wheel drive, manual transmission vehicles may be flat towed without modification. Typically, a car with rear-wheel drive and a manual transmission or four-wheel drive with a manual transfer case that can be placed in neutral can be flat towed.
How to tow a front wheel drive car behind a motorhome?
Another option for towing your vehicle is to connect a tow dolly to your RV. With this method, the front two wheels of your toad are loaded onto the dolly. The rear wheels roll on the ground. This is a good choice for vehicles with front-wheel drive transmissions.
