how to tow a car behind an rv

[Brian]

Towing a car behind an RV, often called "flat towing" or "dinghy towing," requires a specific combination of compatible vehicles and the right equipment. The safest and most common method is flat towing, where all four of the car's wheels are on the ground. This is only possible if your car's transmission and drivetrain are designed for it; otherwise, you risk severe damage.

The process involves three key components: a baseplate and tow bar to connect the vehicles, an auxiliary braking system in the towed car for safety, and wiring for lights. The single most critical step is verifying your car's towing specifications in the owner's manual. Never assume a car is towable.

Essential Towing Equipment Checklist

Equipment	Purpose	Key Consideration
Baseplate	A frame-mounted hitch on the towed car.	Must be model-specific for a secure fit.
Tow Bar	Connects the baseplate to the RV's hitch.	Choose between rigid or swing-away models.
Auxiliary Braking System	Applies the towed car's brakes automatically.	Often legally required for vehicles over a certain weight.
Wiring Harness	Syncs the car's tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals with the RV.	Ensures other drivers can see your intentions.
Safety Cables	Secondary attachment in case the tow bar fails.	A crucial backup for peace of mind.

Before you hit the road, perform a thorough pre-trip check. Confirm the tow bar is locked, the safety cables are connected, the braking system is activated, and all lights are working. Practice turning and backing up in a large, empty parking lot first, as the extended length dramatically changes the RV's handling. Make wider turns and anticipate stops much earlier. Check the tow rig within the first few miles and periodically during your trip for any signs of issues. Proper setup and cautious driving make RVing with a towed car a fantastic way to explore.

[JudeFitz]

We've been flat-towing our Jeep Wrangler for years. Forget all the complex theory; it boils down to a simple routine. Hook up the tow bar, plug in the lights, and double-check that the transmission is in neutral and the steering wheel is unlocked. The biggest rookie mistake is forgetting to disable the car's alarm system. The most important gear is the supplemental brake for the Jeep—it’s a legal must-have and a lifesaver on mountain descents. It becomes second nature after a couple of trips.

[NathanLynn]

Before you even look at equipment, your first stop must be your car's owner's manual. Open the "Recreational Towing" section. This will tell you definitively if your specific model can be flat-towed without destroying the transmission. For many front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive vehicles, the answer is a hard "no" unless you use a trailer. If it is approved, the manual will give the exact steps for preparing the transmission, often involving a specific sequence of shifter positions. This five-minute read can save you thousands in repair costs.

[VonEzra]

The budget is a major factor. The baseplate and tow bar are just the start. The mandatory auxiliary brake system is a significant cost, ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. Then add professional installation if you're not a confident mechanic. Alternatively, a tow dolly lifts the car's front wheels off the ground, which can be a solution for cars not suited for flat towing and is often cheaper upfront. However, you have to store the dolly at your destination. Weigh the initial investment against your long-term travel plans.

[VanJoel]

Modern RVs and auxiliary braking systems have smart features that simplify the process. Some brake systems now connect via Bluetooth to an app on your phone, allowing you to monitor the system status and perform diagnostic checks. When shopping for a tow bar, look for models with built-in signal lights that confirm it's properly locked. These small tech upgrades add a layer of confidence, especially for new towers. The goal is to make the connection and safety checks as foolproof as possible, so you can focus on the adventure ahead.