What 4x4 trucks can be flat towed?
Flat-towing four wheels down behind an RV is officially approved for only a small subset of 4x4 pickup trucks. The most reliably documented options are manual-transmission Jeep Wrangler–based pickups (Wrangler and Gladiator). Most other 4x4 pickups are not approved for four-down towing and require a tow dolly or a flatbed.
Details: The ability to flat-tow depends on model year, engine, transmission, and transfer-case setup. Always consult the manufacturer’s towing guide and your exact vehicle’s owner’s manual before attempting to tow any 4x4 pickup behind an RV. This article highlights what is commonly documented and offers guidance on verification and safe towing practices.
Which 4x4 pickups are commonly approved for four-wheel-down towing
Below are the best-documented options as of the latest guidance. Availability varies by year, trim, and configuration; always confirm with the factory for your exact vehicle.
- Jeep Wrangler (JK/JL) with a manual transmission: Manual-transmission Wranglers have historically been listed as towable four-down when the transfer case is placed in neutral and proper procedures are followed. The automatic Wrangler is typically not approved for four-down towing.
- Jeep Gladiator (JT) with a manual transmission: Like the Wrangler, the Gladiator’s manual variant is commonly cited as towable four-down under Jeep’s towing guidelines, with the correct neutral position and procedures.
Note: This list emphasizes manual-transmission Jeep Wranglers and Gladiators, which have become the most consistently documented options for four-wheel-down towing among 4x4 pickups. For any other 4x4 truck (e.g., Ford F-Series, Ram 1500, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Toyota Tacoma/Tundra, Nissan Titan), do not assume four-down towing is permitted. In many cases, a tow dolly (two wheels on the ground) or flatbed towing is required, or you may need to tow a two-wheel-drive variant of the same model.
How to verify and tow safely
Before attempting to flat-tow a 4x4 pickup behind an RV, follow these steps to ensure legality and safety:
- Consult the official owner’s manual and the manufacturer’s towing guide for your exact model year, trim, and drivetrain to confirm four-down towing allowances and procedures.
- Determine whether the transfer case and transmission support four-down towing, and whether any modifications or procedures (such as neutral positioning, driveshaft disconnects, or tow kits) are required.
- Use a properly rated tow bar and ensure electrical, braking, and lighting systems are compatible with your motorhome’s towing setup.
- Have a professional inspect the setup for safe braking, steering, and weight distribution during towing.
- Be aware of local and cross-border towing regulations, including requirements for braking and lighting when towing behind a motorhome.
In practice, many owners opt for a tow dolly or flatbed towing for 4x4 pickups unless the manufacturer explicitly approves four-down towing for their exact configuration.
Summary
For 4x4 pickup trucks, four-wheel-down flat towing behind an RV is quite limited in scope. The most consistently documented options are manual-transmission Jeep Wranglers and Gladiators, with official guidance varying by model year and trim. Most other 4x4 pickups are not approved for four-down towing and require alternative towing methods. Always verify with the latest factory towing guide for your vehicle before attempting to tow behind an RV.
What 4x4 can you flat tow?
Here are some of the most popular flat tow vehicles:
- Jeep Wrangler JL.
- Ford F-150.
- Jeep Wrangler JK.
- Chevrolet Equinox.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee.
- Jeep Cherokee.
- Chevrolet Colorado.
- Honda CR-V.
Can you flat tow a Ram 2500 4x4?
As for the RAM brand, its three pain pickup trucks can all be flat towed. That means the RAM 1500, 2500 and 3500 are all excellent options for someone shopping for a new vehicle that can be flat towed.
Can a F150 4x4 be flat towed?
You'll need to do a few things differently. First start your vehicle. Next press the 2H button on the four wheel drive mode.
What pickup trucks are flat-towable?
- Jeep Wrangler (2025) The Jeep continues to dominate for a reason.
- Ford F-150 4WD. The Ford F-150, when equipped 4WD and neutral-ready transfer case, is one of the most popular pickup trucks to tow.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee.
- 2025 Chevrolet Colorado.
- Ford Bronco 2025.
- Jeep Gladiator 2025.
- GMC Canyon (2025)
- Chevrolet Equinox.
