Can you flat tow a Honda Fit?
Typically, the Honda Fit with its automatic transmission should not be flat-towed four wheels down behind a motorhome. The safer and more common approach is to tow the car on a tow dolly or trailer so the drivetrain isn’t turning while you travel. Some older Fits with a manual transmission may be towable under specific conditions outlined by Honda, but always verify with the owner's manual and a dealer.
Understanding flat towing and why it matters
Flat towing means pulling a vehicle with all four wheels on the ground behind a motorhome. For many cars, this can spin the transmission and cause lubrication or internal damage unless the car is designed for four‑down towing. The Honda Fit—especially the CVT-equipped models sold in the United States—generally does not meet that criterion, so manufacturers and towing guides typically recommend alternative methods.
Honda Fit: transmissions by model year
Automatic CVT models (most recent Fits)
For most Honda Fits built with an automatic continuously variable transmission, flat towing four wheels down is not recommended. Honda's guidance typically calls for towing the vehicle on a tow dolly or on a trailer to protect the transmission and related components. Always consult the exact owner’s manual for any model-year-specific caveats or distances.
Manual transmission models (older Fits)
Some early Honda Fits offered a manual transmission. In those cases, four‑down towing may be possible if the owner’s manual explicitly allows it and you follow the specified procedure. If your car has a manual transmission, locate the towing section in the manual and adhere to Honda’s instructions. If there is any doubt, use a tow dolly or trailer instead.
Practical towing options for a Honda Fit
If you’re weighing options for towing a Fit behind an RV, consider the following common methods and their trade-offs:
- Tow dolly: Place the Fit on a tow dolly so the front wheels (the Drive wheels on a front-wheel-drive car) are on the dolly and off the ground, while the rear wheels stay on the road. This prevents the transmission from turning and is a widely used solution for CVT-equipped FWD cars.
- Full trailer: Load the Fit onto a car trailer and secure it for road travel. This completely isolates the vehicle’s drivetrain and offers maximum protection, but it requires more space, equipment, and cost.
- Manual-transmission exceptions: If your specific Fit has a manual transmission and the owner’s manual permits 4‑down towing, follow the exact steps and limitations provided by Honda. If there is any uncertainty, prefer a dolly or trailer.
Regardless of the method chosen, prioritize safety, use appropriate towing equipment, and follow the manufacturer’s directions to minimize risk to the vehicle.
What to check before tow
Preparation is key. Before you tow, verify compatibility and gather the right equipment. Consider:
- Whether your model year and transmission are approved for any form of four-down towing in the manual.
- Whether you will use a tow dolly or a trailer, and ensure the equipment is rated to handle the Fit’s weight.
- Proper lighting, wiring, and safety chains per your RV setup and local regulations.
Additionally, double-check that the parking brake is disengaged when appropriate, wheels are chocked as needed, and all connections are secure to prevent accidents on the road.
Summary
For most Honda Fits, particularly those with automatic transmissions, flat towing four wheels down is not recommended. The prudent approach is to tow the vehicle on a tow dolly or on a trailer behind an RV. If you own a Fit with a manual transmission, refer to the owner’s manual to confirm whether four‑down towing is allowed and under what conditions. Always follow Honda’s official guidance and the towing equipment manufacturer’s instructions to protect your vehicle and ensure safe travel. When in doubt, consult a Honda dealer or a qualified towing professional.
