Which Cars Can Be Flat Towed? A Complete Guide for Towing Safely

Flat towing, also known as dinghy towing or four-down towing, is a convenient way to transport a vehicle behind an RV or another car without using a trailer or tow dolly. Still, not every car is fitted for flat towing. Selecting the proper vehicle is important to protect against transmission harm and guarantee a secure towing event. Before deciding, this guide will assist you in knowing and what factors to take into account

What Is Flat Towing?

Using a tow bar attached to the towing car, flat towing is the practice of towing a four-wheeler vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. RV owners and travelers like this approach because it gets rid of the requirement for a trailer, therefore simplifying setup and cutting down on extra weight. On the other hand, not all vehicles are intended for this kind of towing, and using one that is inappropriate might lead to major mechanical damage.

Vehicles That Can Be Flat Towed

Many vehicles with manual transmissions and some four-wheel-drive (4WD) or all-wheel-drive (AWD) models with a transfer case that can be set to neutral are suitable for flat towing. Some of the most popular flat towable vehicles include:

Flat towing is possible for many manual vehicles and some four-wheel drive (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) models with a transfer case that may be set to neutral. Among the most popular flat towable cars are:

• Jeep Wrangler – One of the most commonly flat-towed vehicles, thanks to its 4WD system with a neutral mode.
• Ford Bronco (4WD models) – The new Bronco with a transfer case in neutral is flat towable.
• Chevrolet Colorado & GMC Canyon (4WD models) – These midsize trucks come with a transfer case that allows flat towing.
• Jeep Gladiator – A rugged, flat-towable pickup with similar features to the Wrangler.
• Ford F-150 (Certain 4WD models) – Select 4WD configurations allow flat towing with proper setup.
• Honda CR-V (Older models with manual transmission) – Some older models are towable, but recent versions are not.
• Chevrolet Equinox (Certain years with manual transmission) – Some past models were suitable for flat towing.

Always consult the owner's manual or manufacturer guidelines before flat towing any vehicle to confirm compatibility and proper procedures.

Factors to Consider Before Flat Towing

Transmission Type

Cars with stick shifts work better for flat towing. They don't need a pump to move transmission fluid around. But most cars with automatic transmissions need changes or extra gear to be towed behind another vehicle.

Drivetrain Configuration

Some 4WD and AWD drive cars can be flat towed if they have a transfer case that can switch to neutral. This stops damage to the drivetrain while towing. Two-wheel-drive cars with automatic transmissions can't be flat towed. 

What Vehicles Can Be Flat Towed?

It's key to check if a car can be flat towed before trying it. Some cars need changes, like adding a transmission fluid pump or a way to disconnect the driveshaft, to make them okay for flat towing. Car makers give rules about flat towing abilities, so it's important to look at the owner's book or ask a car dealer.

Benefits of Flat Towing

Convenience and Efficiency

Flat towing does away with the use of a trailer, which makes it faster to hitch and unhitch a vehicle. It saves time and lowers the overall weight being towed.

Better Fuel Efficiency

Flat towing is generally more fuel-efficient than trailer towing because it lowers the added weight and drag on the towing vehicle.

Potential Risks and Precautions

Transmission and Drivetrain Damage

Flat towing a non-flat tow-specific vehicle will result in extreme transmission or drivetrain damage. Always adhere to manufacturer recommendations to avoid expensive repairs.

Legal Considerations

Various states and nations have laws regarding towing methods, including safety chains, auxiliary braking systems, and lighting regulations. Observe local laws before towing.

Conclusion

Flat towing is a good option for tourists and RV owners who need a hassle-free means to tow an extra car. However, there is a need to choose a car that is suitable for flat towing to ensure no mechanical issues. Always use the owner's manual, obey the manufacturer's advice, and use appropriate towing gear to ensure a safe and trouble-free experience. Knowing which cars can be flat towed will help you make the proper choice and evade hassles.