How To Tow A Car Behind Motorhome Safely: Your Ultimate Guide

Can you tow a car behind a motorhome? Yes, you absolutely can tow a car behind a motorhome, a practice often referred to as RV towing or dinghy towing. This setup significantly enhances your travel flexibility, allowing you to explore local areas easily once you’ve parked your larger recreational vehicle. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know for safe and successful motorhome towing setup.

How To Tow A Car Behind Motorhome
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Deciphering the Essentials of Towing a Car Behind a Motorhome

Towing a car behind your motorhome isn’t just about hooking up a vehicle and driving off. It involves a specific understanding of the equipment, regulations, and safety protocols. This section will lay the groundwork for a safe and enjoyable towing experience.

Why Tow a Car? The Advantages

The benefits of towing a car behind your motorhome are numerous:

Local Exploration: Once your motorhome is parked at a campsite, having a towed vehicle (often called a “toad” or towed vehicle) makes it incredibly easy to run errands, visit attractions, or simply explore the surrounding areas without the hassle of moving the entire motorhome.
Convenience: It eliminates the need for public transport, expensive taxis, or walking long distances.
Flexibility: You can choose to tow a car that suits your specific needs, whether it’s a fuel-efficient compact for city driving or a larger SUV for off-road adventures.
Cost Savings: In many cases, towing your own vehicle can be more economical than renting a car at each destination.

Types of Towing Methods

When it comes to recreational vehicle towing, there are several common methods, each with its own advantages and considerations:

Flat Towing (Dinghy Towing)

This is the most popular and arguably the most convenient method. It involves towing a car with all four wheels on the ground.

How it works: The car is attached to the motorhome via a tow bar. The car’s drivetrain needs to be in a neutral position, and the steering wheel should be unlocked.
Pros:
- Easy setup and breakdown.
- No need to remove wheels or tires.
- The towed vehicle’s battery is typically not drained.
Cons:
- Not all vehicles are suitable for flat towing.
- Requires specialized towing accessories like a tow bar and base plate.
- May require a braking system for the towed vehicle.

Towing on a Dolly

This method involves placing the front wheels of the towed vehicle onto a trailer called a tow dolly.

How it works: The dolly has its own wheels and hitch that connects to the motorhome. The front wheels of the car are lifted off the ground, while the rear wheels remain on the road.
Pros:
- Can be used with vehicles not suitable for flat towing.
- Generally less expensive than a full car trailer.
Cons:
- Requires more setup and breakdown time.
- The dolly itself needs to be stored and towed.
- Can be more challenging to maneuver than flat towing.
- Rear-wheel drive vehicles generally cannot be towed this way as it can damage the transmission. Front-wheel drive vehicles are ideal for dollies.

Towing on a Full Car Trailer

This involves using a trailer to carry the entire towed vehicle.

How it works: The car is loaded onto a flatbed trailer, which is then hitched to the motorhome.
Pros:
- Can be used with virtually any vehicle.
- Protects the towed vehicle from road debris.
- No wear and tear on the towed vehicle’s drivetrain or tires.
Cons:
- Most expensive option.
- Requires a larger motorhome and driver with experience towing larger loads.
- Finding parking for the motorhome and trailer can be difficult.
- Setup and breakdown are more time-consuming.

For the remainder of this guide, we will focus primarily on flat towing, as it is the most common and efficient method for RV towing.

Key Components for a Safe Motorhome Towing Setup

A successful motorhome towing setup relies on the right equipment and ensuring it’s properly installed and maintained. Here are the critical components:

1. The Towed Vehicle (The “Toad”)

Not all cars are created equal when it comes to dinghy towing. You need to verify if your specific vehicle can be safely towed with all four wheels down.

Manufacturer’s Recommendations: Always consult your towed vehicle’s owner’s manual. It will explicitly state whether it can be flat-towed and provide specific instructions. Some manufacturers prohibit flat towing due to potential transmission or drivetrain damage.
Transmission: Automatic transmissions are the most problematic for flat towing. If the transmission is not in neutral with the engine off and the driveshaft connected, it can be severely damaged. Many automatics require a transmission lube pump or a modification to be safely flat-towed. Manual transmissions are generally much easier to flat-tow.
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicles are often suitable for flat towing. All-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles typically require transfer case disengagement or other modifications. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) vehicles can sometimes be flat-towed, but it’s crucial to check the manual.
Steering Wheel: The steering wheel must be unlocked during towing, so the towed vehicle can follow the motorhome’s turns.
Electrical System: The towed vehicle’s battery will be used to power the braking system and lights. You’ll need a way to keep the battery charged.

2. The Tow Bar

The tow bar is the primary connection between your motorhome and the towed vehicle. It’s a critical safety component and comes in various types.

Types of Tow Bars:
- Durable Steel Tow Bars: These are strong and reliable but can be heavy.
- Non-Binding Tow Bars: These are designed to prevent the tow bar from binding up during turns, which can cause damage to the vehicles.
- Self-Aligning Tow Bars: These automatically align themselves, making hookup easier.
- Folding Tow Bars: These can be folded up when not in use, making them more convenient for storage.
Weight Capacity: Ensure the tow bar’s weight capacity exceeds the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of your towed vehicle.
Connection Type: Tow bars connect to a receiver hitch on the motorhome and a base plate on the towed vehicle.

3. The Base Plate

A base plate is a custom-fit bracket that attaches directly to the frame of your towed vehicle. It provides the secure mounting points for the tow bar.

Custom Fit: Base plates are designed for specific vehicle makes and models. It’s essential to get one that precisely fits your car.
Durability: Base plates are usually made of heavy-duty steel to withstand the stresses of towing.
Discreet Design: Many base plates are designed to be mostly hidden when the tow bar is detached, maintaining your vehicle’s aesthetics.

4. The Braking System for the Towed Vehicle

This is arguably the most crucial safety component for RV towing. Federal regulations often require auxiliary braking systems for towed vehicles weighing over a certain amount (this varies by jurisdiction). Even if not legally mandated, it’s highly recommended for towing safety.

Why is it Necessary? When you brake your motorhome, the towed vehicle will continue to push against it if it doesn’t have its own braking system. This puts immense stress on the tow bar, base plate, and motorhome’s hitch, and can lead to loss of control.
Types of Braking Systems:
- Portable (or Supplemental) Braking Systems: These are the most common. They are installed inside the towed vehicle and activate the towed vehicle’s brakes in conjunction with the motorhome’s brakes.
  - Air Brake Systems: These typically use the motorhome’s air brake system to activate the towed vehicle’s brakes.
  - Vacuum Brake Systems: These utilize the motorhome’s vacuum assist to operate the towed vehicle’s brakes.
  - Electric Brake Systems: These are very popular. They connect to the towed vehicle’s brake pedal and are controlled by a proportional controller mounted in the motorhome.
  - Proportional vs. Time-Delayed: Proportional systems apply the towed vehicle’s brakes with the same intensity as the motorhome’s. Time-delayed systems apply brakes after a set time delay. Proportional is generally preferred for smoother braking.
- Integrated Braking Systems: These are permanently installed and often more sophisticated, directly tapping into the vehicle’s braking system.
- Brake Buddy or Similar Devices: These are self-contained units that sit on the floor of the towed vehicle and press the brake pedal. They are portable and relatively easy to set up.
Blue Ox Patriot, Roadmaster Brake Master, SMI Air Force One: These are just a few examples of popular braking system brands.

5. Towed Vehicle Wiring and Lighting

For towing safety and legal compliance, the towed vehicle’s lights (tail lights, brake lights, turn signals) must be synchronized with the motorhome’s lights.

Methods for Lighting Synchronization:
- Diode Kit: This is a common solution. Diodes are installed in the wiring harness of the towed vehicle to prevent the motorhome’s electrical system from backfeeding into the towed vehicle’s.
- Bulb and Socket Systems: This involves installing separate bulbs in the towed vehicle’s existing light housings.
- Magnetic Tow Lights: These are temporary lights that attach to the towed vehicle with magnets and plug into the motorhome’s trailer connector. They are good for occasional towing but not ideal for regular dinghy towing.
- Direct Wiring: Running a dedicated wiring harness from the motorhome to the towed vehicle.

6. Safety Cables or Chains

These are a critical backup in the event of a failure of the primary connection (tow bar).

Purpose: If the tow bar detaches from either vehicle, the safety cables will keep the towed vehicle tethered to the motorhome, preventing it from swerving into traffic or becoming a hazard.
Attachment: They should be attached from the frame of the motorhome to the frame of the towed vehicle, using strong, properly rated carabiners or clips.
Slack: Ensure there is enough slack in the cables to allow for turns, but not so much that they drag on the ground.

7. High-Low Adapters (If Necessary)

If the hitch height on your motorhome and the connection point on your base plate are not level, you’ll need a high-low adapter.

Purpose: To ensure the tow bar remains level, which is crucial for safe towing and preventing undue stress on the equipment.
When Needed: If the trailer hitch on the motorhome is significantly higher or lower than the base plate connection on the towed vehicle.

8. Supplemental Braking System Controller (for Electric Brakes)

If you opt for an electric braking system in your towed vehicle, you’ll need a controller mounted in the motorhome.

Proportional Control: This type of controller adjusts the braking force of the towed vehicle based on how hard you press the motorhome’s brake pedal.
Installation: These are typically mounted on the dashboard or under the dash of the motorhome.

Step-by-Step: Preparing Your Motorhome and Towed Vehicle

Proper preparation is key to a smooth and safe towing experience. Follow these steps to get your motorhome towing setup ready.

Step 1: Verify Towed Vehicle Compatibility

Consult Manuals: Double-check the owner’s manuals for both your motorhome and your towed vehicle.
Research Online: Many online forums and RV communities discuss which vehicles are suitable for flat towing.
Professional Consultation: If you’re unsure, consult with an RV service center or a dealership specializing in towing equipment.

Step 2: Install the Base Plate on the Towed Vehicle

Professional Installation Recommended: While some DIYers can manage this, it’s a job best left to professionals due to the precision required for alignment and frame mounting.
Torque Specifications: Ensure all bolts are torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Step 3: Connect the Tow Bar

Alignment: Park the motorhome and towed vehicle in a straight line and as close as possible.
Insertion: Slide the tow bar arms into the base plate receivers on the towed vehicle.
Locking Pins: Secure the tow bar with its locking pins. Ensure they are fully engaged and pinned.

Step 4: Connect Safety Cables or Chains

Attachment Points: Connect the cables to the designated frame attachment points on both vehicles.
Proper Slack: Adjust for a slight sag, but not so much that they drag. The cables should be crossed (left to right, right to left) to cradle the towed vehicle if it detaches.

5. Connect the Braking System

Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Each braking system has its own installation and setup procedures. Follow them meticulously.
Test: Ensure the braking system is functioning correctly before hitting the road.

Step 6: Connect the Wiring and Lighting

Plug In: Connect the umbilical cord from the towed vehicle’s wiring harness to the motorhome’s electrical connector.
Functional Check: Have someone stand behind both vehicles and test all lights: tail lights, brake lights, and left/right turn signals.

Step 7: Battery Disconnect and Charge Wire (If Applicable)

Battery Disconnect: Many towed vehicles require their batteries to be disconnected to prevent them from draining. Some braking systems include an automatic disconnect.
Charge Wire: If you have a braking system that requires power or if you use the towed vehicle’s electronics, you’ll need a charge wire to run from the motorhome’s battery to the towed vehicle’s battery to keep it topped up.

Step 8: Interior Preparations for the Towed Vehicle

Transmission: Place the transmission in Park (automatic) or Neutral (manual).
Key Position: Turn the ignition key to the “Accessory” (ACC) position. This unlocks the steering wheel and powers the towed vehicle’s electronics, including the braking system and potentially the charge wire. Leave the steering wheel unlocked.
Parking Brake: Release the parking brake.
Secure Loose Items: Make sure nothing is loose inside the towed vehicle that could roll around and damage the interior or the braking system.

Pre-Drive Checklist: Ensuring Towing Safety

Before every trip, and even before starting a journey after a stop, a thorough checklist is essential for towing safety.

Before Leaving the Campsite:

[ ] Towed Vehicle Checked: Is the correct vehicle being towed?
[ ] Base Plate Connected: Is the tow bar securely attached to the base plate?
[ ] Tow Bar Secured: Are the tow bar’s locking pins fully engaged and secured?
[ ] Safety Cables Connected: Are the safety cables properly attached and routed?
[ ] Lighting Connected: Is the umbilical cord plugged in?
[ ] Braking System Connected and Activated: Is the braking system set up and operational?
[ ] Towed Vehicle Electrical: Ignition in ACC, steering unlocked, transmission in Park/Neutral, parking brake released.
[ ] Towed Vehicle Battery: Is it charged and connected (if required)?
[ ] No Dragging Components: Check that nothing is dragging on the ground (tow bar arms, safety cables, etc.).
[ ] Towed Vehicle Interior: Doors locked, windows closed, no loose items.

During the Drive:

[ ] Regular Checks: Periodically check your mirrors for any unusual behavior from the towed vehicle.
[ ] Braking System Indicator: If your braking system has an indicator light in the motorhome, monitor it.
[ ] Stop Safely: Make infrequent stops (every couple of hours) to perform a walk-around inspection. Feel the wheels of the towed vehicle; they should be cool to the touch.

Essential Towing Accessories and Considerations

Beyond the core components, several towing accessories can enhance your experience and safety.

Towing Mirrors

While your motorhome likely has mirrors, extending them or adding clip-on mirrors can provide a much clearer view of the towed vehicle and surrounding traffic.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) for Towed Vehicle

A TPMS for the towed vehicle allows you to monitor tire pressure remotely from the motorhome’s dashboard. This is crucial as underinflated tires can overheat and fail.

Stone Guard or Rock Shield

These are typically installed on the front of the towed vehicle or on the back of the motorhome to protect the paint and windshield from road debris, rocks, and bugs kicked up by the motorhome’s tires.

Mud Flaps

Properly sized mud flaps behind the motorhome’s rear wheels can significantly reduce the amount of debris thrown back at the towed vehicle.

Electrical Protection

Fuses: Keep spare fuses for the towed vehicle’s electrical system.
Circuit Breakers: Some systems use circuit breakers. Ensure you know their location.
Surge Protectors: While not strictly necessary for towing, a surge protector for your motorhome’s electrical system is always a good idea.

Maintenance of Towing Equipment

Regularly inspect all your towing components:

Tow Bar: Check for wear, cracks, or damage. Lubricate moving parts as recommended by the manufacturer.
Base Plate: Inspect attachment bolts for tightness.
Braking System: Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for your braking system. Check for leaks or wear in pneumatic or hydraulic lines.
Wiring Harness: Look for damaged wires, corroded connectors, or loose connections.

Driving With a Towed Vehicle: Tips for Smooth Sailing

Driving a motorhome with a towed vehicle requires a different approach than driving a standard vehicle.

Acceleration and Braking

Gentle Inputs: Accelerate and brake smoothly and gradually. Sudden movements can cause the towed vehicle to sway or even jackknife.
Increased Stopping Distance: Remember that you are now essentially driving a much heavier vehicle with an additional load. Your stopping distance will be significantly increased. Allow extra space between you and the vehicle in front.
Brake Controller Adjustments: Adjust your brake controller settings based on road conditions and the weight of the towed vehicle. You may need to increase the sensitivity on slippery surfaces.

Turning and Maneuvering

Wider Turns: You will need to make wider turns than you would without a towed vehicle. Practice making turns in an empty parking lot to get a feel for the extra length.
Be Aware of Tail Swing: Motorhomes, especially larger ones, have a rear “tail swing” during turns. Be mindful of this, especially when turning right.
Backing Up: Backing up with a towed vehicle is challenging. It’s often easier to disconnect the towed vehicle for parking or maneuvering in tight spaces. If you must back up, have a spotter guide you.

Speed Limits and Regulations

Know Local Laws: Be aware of any specific speed limits or regulations for vehicles towing other vehicles in the states or provinces you are traveling through.
Towed Vehicle Speed Limits: Some states have lower speed limits for vehicles being towed.

Long-Distance Driving Considerations

Regular Breaks: Plan for more frequent stops to check your towing safety setup and to rest.
Tire Wear: Be mindful of tire wear on both vehicles. Ensure tires are properly inflated and balanced.
Fuel Consumption: Towing will generally increase your motorhome’s fuel consumption.

Common Problems and Solutions in RV Towing

Even with the best preparation, you might encounter minor issues. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

Problem	Potential Cause	Solution
Towed Vehicle Lights Not Working	Loose connection, blown fuse, faulty diode, wiring issue.	Check all connections. Inspect fuses in both vehicles. Test diodes. Check wiring for damage.
Towed Vehicle Battery Draining	Brake lights staying on, interior lights not turned off, faulty charge wire.	Ensure all towed vehicle lights are off. Verify ignition is in ACC. Check charge wire connection and functionality.
Tow Bar Binding	Not using a non-binding tow bar, tight turns, improper alignment during hookup.	Use a non-binding tow bar. Ensure vehicles are aligned during hookup.
Towed Vehicle Swaying	Improper braking system setup, incorrect towing speed, unbalanced load.	Adjust braking system. Slow down. Ensure towed vehicle is properly aligned and all equipment is securely fastened.
Overheating Towed Vehicle Brakes	Braking system set too high, prolonged braking without proper cooling.	Adjust braking system to a lower setting. Take breaks for the towed vehicle’s brakes to cool down.
Road Debris Damage to Towed Vehicle	Lack of stone guard or mud flaps.	Install a stone guard or rock shield. Ensure adequate mud flaps are present on the motorhome.
Tow Bar Loosening	Improperly secured locking pins.	Double-check that all locking pins are fully engaged and secured with their safety clips.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the best car to tow behind a motorhome?

There isn’t a single “best” car, as it depends on your needs. However, generally, front-wheel-drive vehicles with manual transmissions or automatics that are explicitly approved by the manufacturer for flat towing are good candidates. Small, lightweight cars are easier to tow and put less stress on your motorhome.

Q2: Do I need to put the towed vehicle in neutral?

Yes, for flat towing, the transmission of the towed vehicle must be in neutral, and the steering wheel must be unlocked. For automatic transmissions, this is crucial for preventing transmission damage.

Q3: How do I know if my car can be flat towed?

Always consult your towed vehicle’s owner’s manual. If the manual states it’s not towable or doesn’t mention it, assume it cannot be flat-towed without modifications or consulting a professional.

Q4: Can I tow my SUV?

Many SUVs can be flat-towed, but it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s specifications. Four-wheel-drive SUVs often require the transfer case to be shifted into neutral, and sometimes the driveshaft needs to be disconnected.

Q5: How much does a towing setup cost?

A complete motorhome towing setup can range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the components you choose (tow bar, braking system, base plate, wiring).

Q6: Do I need a braking system for the towed vehicle?

In most jurisdictions, yes, vehicles weighing over a certain amount require auxiliary braking. Regardless of legal requirements, it is highly recommended for towing safety to prevent accidents and damage.

Q7: What is dinghy towing?

Dinghy towing is another term for flat towing, where a car is towed behind an RV with all four wheels on the ground.

By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to safely and confidently tow a car behind your motorhome, unlocking a new level of freedom and convenience for your travels. Happy trails!