Is the Acura RDX flat towable?
The Acura RDX is not approved for flat towing behind a recreational vehicle. For safe transport, use a flatbed trailer or other Acura-approved methods, and always check your model year’s owner’s manual and consult a dealer or professional tow service before attempting any towing configuration.
What flat towing is and why it matters
Flat towing, also known as four-down towing, means pulling a powered vehicle behind another vehicle with all four wheels in contact with the road. This method can spin drivetrain components and other parts of the transmission when the engine is off, so manufacturers place strict rules on whether a vehicle can be towed in this configuration.
- Four-down towing can rotate the transmission and other drivetrain components, risking wear or failure if not approved by the manufacturer.
- Modern automatics and all-wheel-drive systems often require specific procedures or are not suitable for flat towing at all.
- Always verify towing configuration requirements in the vehicle’s manual or with the dealer before attempting any four-down towing.
In short, the RDX’s drivetrain setup makes four-down towing an option that isn’t supported by Acura for typical curb-to-camper use. The consequence can be damage to the transmission, transfer case, or differential, and may void warranties if performed against manufacturer guidance.
What Acura advises for the RDX
According to Acura’s towing guidelines, the RDX is not approved for flat towing (four-down) behind another vehicle. This means RV owners should avoid towing the RDX with all four wheels on the ground and should explore alternate methods to move the vehicle when on the road trip.
To move an RDX safely behind an RV, Acura recommends options that keep the vehicle off the road in a manner aligned with the manufacturer’s guidance. Below are commonly accepted approaches and considerations.
- Transport the RDX on a flatbed trailer so all four tires do not contact the road during towing.
- Utilize a professional towing service or a dealer-approved system that uses a suitable trailer configuration and equipment to prevent drivetrain damage.
- Consult the owner’s manual and a local Acura dealer for model-year-specific towing instructions and any available accessories that may enable safe transport when traveling.
Conclusion: For the RDX, four-down towing behind an RV is not recommended. Safe, manufacturer-approved methods involve carrying the vehicle on a flatbed or using a professional tow setup tailored to this model. Always confirm with Acura for your exact year and configuration.
Common towing myths debunked
Some RV owners encounter advice about towing AWD vehicles like the RDX that isn’t aligned with manufacturer guidance. Here are quick clarifications to help keep decisions grounded in official recommendations.
- Myth: All-wheel-drive vehicles can be flat-towed behind an RV with minimal risk. Reality: Most AWD vehicles, including the RDX, have restrictions on four-down towing; never assume it’s permitted without checking the manual.
- Myth: A higher towing capacity means flat towing is safe. Reality: Towing capacity is about how much weight can be pulled, not about towing method. Drivetrain design and lubrication requirements drive flat-towability decisions.
- Myth: Aftermarket devices can make flat towing safe. Reality: Manufacturer-approved methods are essential; aftermarket accessory kits may not be permitted and could void warranties or cause damage.
Bottom line: Always prioritize the official guidelines for your model year and consult a dealer or qualified tow professional before planning any towing method for the RDX.
Summary
Takeaway: The Acura RDX is not flat towable behind an RV. For safe and compliant transport, use a flatbed trailer or a dealership-approved towing setup, and verify model-year specifics in the owner’s manual or with Acura. Planning ahead reduces the risk of drivetrain damage and preserves warranty coverage while traveling.
Are AWD vehicles flat towable?
A few different factors determine what vehicles can be flat towed. It all depends if they have specific features from the manufacturer, such as a transmission disconnect and steering lockout override. Generally, AWD and 4x4 vehicles are more prevalent and preferred vehicles for flat towing.
How to put an Acura in neutral with a dead battery?
2020 Acura MDX Won't Start: How to Shift to Neutral Safely
To shift to neutral, locate the shift lock release slot near the shifter. Insert the key or a flat tool to manually override the lock. This allows moving the gear selector to neutral for towing.
Can an Acura MDX be flat towed?
Your MDX can be towed behind a motorhome at legal highway speeds up to 65 mph (100 km/h). Do not exceed 65 mph (100 km/h). Otherwise, severe transmission damage will occur. To avoid damage to the 4WD system, it must be towed with all four wheels on the ground (flat towing).
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What is the lawsuit against the Acura RDX?
In the case, plaintiffs alleged that America Honda Motor Co., Inc. (“AHM”) knowingly sold its 2019-2020 Acura RDX vehicles with defective infotainment systems that behaved erratically, malfunctioned, and repeatedly froze, thereby distracting the driver and posing a safety hazard.
