Can you tow a car with a motorhome? Yes, you absolutely can tow a car with a motorhome, but it requires specific equipment and careful planning to ensure safety and security. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about motorhome towing, from choosing the right method to preparing your towed vehicle.
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Deciphering Your Towed Vehicle Options
When you’re ready to explore the open road with your motorhome, bringing a smaller vehicle along can significantly enhance your adventures. This towed car, often called a “toad” or “dinghy,” allows for easy transportation around campsites, convenient grocery runs, and exploring local attractions without having to move your entire motorhome. There are three primary ways to achieve towing a vehicle behind RV: flat towing, using a tow dolly, or employing a full car trailer. Each method has its own set of considerations, advantages, and disadvantages.
Flat Towing a Car
Flat towing a car involves connecting your towed vehicle directly to the back of your motorhome with a tow bar. The towed vehicle’s front wheels are typically lifted off the ground, or in some cases, all four wheels are. This method is popular because it’s often the simplest and most straightforward setup once properly installed.
Advantages of Flat Towing:
- Simplicity: Once set up, it’s generally quick to connect and disconnect.
- Maneuverability: The towed vehicle acts much like a trailer, offering good maneuverability.
- No Extra Storage: You don’t have an extra piece of equipment to store like a trailer.
Disadvantages of Flat Towing:
- Vehicle Compatibility: Not all vehicles are suitable for flat towing. Automatic transmissions often require special modifications or are not towable at all. Always check your vehicle’s owner manual.
- Wear and Tear: It can put extra strain on the towed vehicle’s transmission and suspension if not done correctly or if the vehicle isn’t designed for it.
- Tow Bar Installation: Requires a permanent tow bar installation on the motorhome and often base plates on the towed vehicle.
Towing a Car on a Tow Dolly
A tow dolly setup is a two-wheeled trailer that cradles the front wheels of your towed vehicle. The rear wheels of the towed car will roll on the ground. This is a good compromise for many RVers, offering more flexibility than flat towing for some vehicles and less complexity than a full trailer.
Advantages of Using a Tow Dolly:
- Broader Vehicle Compatibility: More vehicles, including those with automatic transmissions, can be towed with a dolly without extensive modifications.
- Reduced Wear: Lifts the drive wheels off the ground, reducing wear on the drivetrain.
- Easier Storage: Dollies can often be stored upright, taking up less space.
Disadvantages of Using a Tow Dolly:
- Setup Time: Connecting and disconnecting can be more involved than flat towing.
- Storage Space: While often smaller than a trailer, a dolly still needs storage.
- Maneuverability: Can be slightly more challenging to back up than a flat-towed vehicle.
Towing a Car on a Trailer
Towing a car on a trailer involves loading your entire vehicle onto a dedicated car trailer. This is the most versatile option, as it can accommodate virtually any vehicle, regardless of transmission type or drivetrain.
Advantages of Towing on a Trailer:
- Universal Compatibility: Can tow any vehicle, including those not designed for flat towing or dolly towing.
- Maximum Protection: The towed vehicle is completely off the ground, protecting it from road debris and wear.
- Versatility: Allows you to tow vehicles that might otherwise be unusable for towing.
Disadvantages of Towing on a Trailer:
- Size and Weight: Trailers add significant length and weight to your motorhome, impacting fuel economy and requiring more driving skill.
- Storage: Requires a place to store the trailer when not in use.
- Loading/Unloading: Requires more effort to load and unload the vehicle.
Essential Motorhome Towing Equipment
Regardless of the method you choose, several crucial towing accessories are necessary for a safe and legal setup. This equipment ensures your towed vehicle is securely attached and compliant with road regulations.
The Tow Bar and Braking System
For flat towing a car, a robust tow bar is paramount. This connects your motorhome to the towed vehicle.
Tow Bar Types:
- Direct Pull: The most common type, where the tow bar connects directly from the motorhome hitch to the towed vehicle’s base plates.
- A-Frame: Features two arms that form an “A” shape, offering stability.
A critical component for any towed vehicle, especially when flat towing a car, is a braking system for towed car. This system activates the towed vehicle’s brakes when you brake the motorhome, significantly improving stopping power and preventing excessive strain on your motorhome’s brakes.
Braking System Options:
- Proportional Systems: Apply the towed vehicle’s brakes in direct proportion to the motorhome’s braking force. This is the most effective and safest option.
- Time-Based Systems: Apply the brakes for a set duration when the motorhome brakes are applied.
- Air Brake Systems: Typically used for larger towed vehicles or trailers, these are less common for passenger cars towed by standard motorhomes.
Tow Dolly Setup Components
When using a tow dolly setup, you’ll need the dolly itself, along with specific attachment hardware.
Key Dolly Components:
- Frame and Axles: The structural foundation of the dolly.
- Wheels and Tires: Must be rated for the weight of your towed vehicle.
- Coupler: Connects the dolly to your motorhome’s hitch.
- Chains/Straps: Heavy-duty restraints to secure the towed vehicle to the dolly.
- Winch (Optional): Aids in pulling the vehicle onto the dolly.
Trailer Equipment
If you opt for towing a car on a trailer, you’ll need a suitable trailer and all the necessary tie-down equipment.
Trailer Essentials:
- Trailer Hitch: Must be rated for the combined weight of the trailer and towed vehicle.
- Trailer Wiring: For brake lights and turn signals.
- Wheel Chocks: To prevent the towed vehicle from rolling.
- Ratchet Straps or Tire Nets: Heavy-duty straps to secure the vehicle to the trailer deck.
Safety Cables and Breakaway Systems
Safety cables are a legal requirement and a critical safety feature. They connect your motorhome and the towed vehicle. If the primary hitch connection fails, the safety cables keep the towed vehicle attached to the motorhome.
A breakaway system is a vital safety feature for towed vehicles. It’s a separate cable connected from the towed vehicle’s braking system to the motorhome. If the towed vehicle accidentally separates from the motorhome, this cable pulls a pin, activating the towed vehicle’s brakes, bringing it to a controlled stop.
Towed Vehicle Preparation: Crucial Steps for a Secure Journey
Proper towed vehicle preparation is as vital as the towing equipment itself. Failing to prepare your vehicle correctly can lead to damage, unsafe driving conditions, or legal issues.
Checking Vehicle Compatibility
Before you even consider towing, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual. This is your most important RV towing guide.
Key Checks:
- Transmission: Many automatic transmissions are not designed for flat towing with the drive wheels on the ground. Some may require specific neutral positions, while others need the driveshaft disconnected or a transmission lubrication pump installed. Manual transmissions are generally easier to tow.
- Steering Wheel Lock: The steering wheel must be able to turn freely. Most vehicles have a steering wheel lock that engages when the ignition is off. You’ll need to defeat this, typically by leaving the ignition in the “accessory” or “on” position (without starting the engine), which can drain the battery.
- Towing Capacity: Ensure your motorhome’s towing capacity is sufficient for the weight of your towed vehicle and trailer (if used).
Electrical Connections
Proper electrical connections are vital for safety and legality. Your towed vehicle needs functioning brake lights, turn signals, and taillights to match your motorhome’s signals.
Electrical Setup:
- Wiring Harness: A dedicated wiring harness that connects the motorhome’s electrical system to the towed vehicle’s lighting system is the most common and reliable method.
- Bulb and Diode Kits: Some systems require diodes to prevent the motorhome’s electrical system from back-feeding into the towed vehicle’s circuits or vice versa.
- Motorhome Specific Kits: Many aftermarket companies offer vehicle-specific wiring kits that simplify the installation process.
Battery Maintenance
When towing with the ignition on (to disengage the steering wheel lock), the towed vehicle’s battery will be in use.
Battery Considerations:
- Battery Disconnect Switch: Installing a battery disconnect switch on the towed vehicle can prevent accidental battery drain when not towing.
- Auxiliary Battery Charging: Some advanced towing setups include systems to charge the towed vehicle’s battery from the motorhome’s alternator, ensuring it doesn’t die during long drives.
Towed Vehicle Preparation Checklist:
| Item | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Owner’s Manual | Read thoroughly regarding towing procedures. | Crucial for identifying any specific requirements or limitations for your vehicle. |
| Transmission | Set to neutral; follow manual for specific instructions. | Some transmissions may require specific procedures or are not towable. |
| Steering Wheel Lock | Disengage; ignition usually in “accessory” or “on” position. | Can drain the battery; consider a battery maintainer or disconnect switch. |
| Braking System | Connect and test towed vehicle’s braking system. | Essential for safety and compliance. Ensure it is properly calibrated. |
| Lights | Test all towed vehicle lights (brake, turn, tail) to ensure they work in sync with the motorhome. | Use a separate wiring harness and potentially diodes to avoid electrical issues. |
| Safety Cables | Connect securely, ensuring a criss-cross pattern. | A critical safety measure in case of hitch failure. |
| Breakaway Cable | Connect from towed vehicle’s braking system to motorhome. | Activates towed vehicle brakes if it separates. |
| Tire Pressure | Inflate tires to the pressure recommended for towing. | Check the vehicle’s manual for specific towing tire pressure. |
| Hitch and Tow Bar | Inspect for wear, damage, and proper connection. | Ensure all pins and clips are secured. |
| Tow Dolly (if used) | Ensure vehicle is centered and securely strapped/chained to the dolly. | Check straps for wear and ensure they are tight. |
| Trailer (if used) | Ensure vehicle is properly chocked and strapped to the trailer deck. | Use appropriate tie-downs that can handle the vehicle’s weight and movement. |
| Fluid Levels | Check engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid. | While less critical for short towing, it’s good practice, especially if the vehicle is older. |
| Loose Items | Secure all loose items inside and outside the towed vehicle. | Antennas, mirrors, anything that could detach and cause damage or become a hazard. |
| Removable Parts | Remove or secure any exterior parts that could vibrate loose (e.g., spoilers, antennas if not flush). | Some vehicles have specific instructions for removing or securing certain exterior components. |
Installation of Towing Gear
Proper installation of your tow bar installation and related accessories is crucial. If you’re not comfortable with mechanical work, consider professional installation to ensure everything is secure and functional.
Tow Bar Installation
A permanent tow bar installation involves attaching a receiver hitch to the motorhome’s frame and then installing base plates onto the towed vehicle’s frame.
Steps for Tow Bar Installation (General):
- Receiver Hitch: Mount the receiver hitch to the motorhome’s chassis according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually involves bolting it to existing frame holes.
- Base Plates: Attach the base plates to the towed vehicle’s frame. This is a critical step that requires precise alignment to ensure the tow bar connects properly and safely. Many base plate manufacturers provide vehicle-specific instructions.
- Tow Bar Connection: The tow bar typically slides into the motorhome’s receiver hitch and then connects to the base plates on the towed vehicle using pins and clips.
- Electrical Connection: Connect the wiring harness from the motorhome to the towed vehicle’s lighting system.
- Braking System Installation: Install the towed vehicle braking system according to its specific instructions. This often involves connecting a vacuum line, an electrical connection, and a control unit inside the motorhome.
Tow Dolly Setup
Setting up a tow dolly involves positioning the dolly, driving the towed vehicle onto it, and securing it.
Steps for Tow Dolly Setup:
- Position Dolly: Place the tow dolly on a level surface.
- Connect to Motorhome: Attach the dolly’s coupler to the motorhome’s hitch.
- Drive Onto Dolly: Carefully drive the towed vehicle onto the dolly’s ramps until the front tires are securely in the wheel cradles.
- Secure Vehicle: Use the provided straps or chains to firmly secure the towed vehicle’s front tires and frame to the dolly.
- Engage Dolly Brakes (if equipped): Some dollies have surge brakes that engage when the motorhome brakes are applied.
Towing a Car on a Trailer
Loading and securing a vehicle onto a trailer requires careful technique.
Steps for Towing a Car on a Trailer:
- Position Trailer: Place the trailer on a level surface and engage its parking brake.
- Drive/Winch Vehicle On: Carefully drive or winch the towed vehicle onto the trailer deck. Ensure it is centered.
- Chock Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels of the towed vehicle to prevent any forward movement.
- Secure Vehicle: Use heavy-duty ratchet straps or tire nets to secure all four tires to the trailer’s tie-down points. Ensure straps are tight and positioned to prevent the vehicle from shifting during transit.
- Connect Trailer Lights: Ensure the trailer’s lights are connected to the motorhome and functioning correctly.
Pre-Trip Safety Checks: Ensuring a Secure Tow
Before every trip, a thorough pre-trip inspection of your motorhome towing setup is crucial. This ensures all components are functioning correctly and securely attached.
Daily Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist:
- Hitch Connection: Verify that the tow bar or dolly coupler is securely attached to the motorhome hitch with all pins and clips in place.
- Safety Cables/Chains: Ensure they are properly connected and have a slight amount of slack to allow for turns without binding, but not so much that they drag.
- Braking System: Test the towed vehicle’s braking system. Some systems have a handheld remote to test them.
- Lights: Walk around the entire setup and have someone check all lights (brake, turn signals, tail lights) on both the motorhome and towed vehicle while simulating braking and turning.
- Tire Condition: Inspect the tires on the motorhome, towed vehicle, and dolly/trailer for proper inflation, wear, and any signs of damage.
- Tow Bar/Dolly/Trailer Condition: Check for any signs of damage, loose bolts, or wear on the towing equipment itself.
- Base Plates/Mounts: Ensure the base plates on the towed vehicle and the attachment points on the motorhome are secure.
- Breakaway Cable: Confirm it’s properly attached and not damaged.
- Strap Security (Dolly/Trailer): Double-check that all straps and tie-downs are tight and secure.
Driving with a Towed Vehicle: New Considerations
Driving a motorhome with a towed vehicle adds length and weight, requiring adjustments to your driving style.
Adjusting Your Driving
- Speed: Adhere to posted towing speed limits, which are often lower than regular speed limits.
- Turning: Take wider turns to avoid clipping curbs or other obstacles with the towed vehicle.
- Braking: Allow significantly more stopping distance. Your motorhome’s brakes are doing most of the work, and the added weight of the towed vehicle requires more time and space to slow down safely.
- Mirror Usage: Utilize your motorhome’s side mirrors extensively to monitor the towed vehicle and its position.
- Lane Changes: Plan lane changes well in advance, ensuring you have ample space. Remember that your towed vehicle follows a wider path than the motorhome.
- Backing Up: Backing up with a towed vehicle is challenging. It’s often best to unhitch for tight maneuvers or have a spotter. If you must back up, do so very slowly and with constant observation.
- Wind and Drafts: Be aware of the buffeting effect from large trucks and buses, which can be amplified when towing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the difference between flat towing and using a tow dolly?
A1: Flat towing involves connecting your car directly to the motorhome with a tow bar, with the car’s front wheels off the ground (or sometimes all four). A tow dolly is a small trailer that lifts the front wheels of the car off the ground, while the car’s rear wheels roll on the road.
Q2: Can I tow a car with a manual transmission?
A2: Yes, cars with manual transmissions are generally easier to tow, often allowing for flat towing with the transmission in neutral and the steering unlocked. Always check your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
Q3: Do I need a special braking system for my towed car?
A3: Yes, a braking system for the towed car is highly recommended and often legally required. It significantly improves stopping power and reduces wear on the motorhome’s brakes.
Q4: How do I connect the lights on my towed car to my motorhome?
A4: You’ll typically use a wiring harness that connects your motorhome’s lighting system to the towed car’s taillights and brake lights. This often involves diodes to prevent electrical feedback.
Q5: What is the most secure way to tow a car?
A5: Towing a car on a fully enclosed or open car trailer is generally the most secure method, as it completely separates the towed vehicle from the road and protects it from damage. However, it also adds the most weight and complexity.
Q6: How do I know if my car is compatible with flat towing?
A6: Consult your car’s owner’s manual. It will explicitly state whether the vehicle can be flat towed and any specific procedures required, such as disconnecting the driveshaft or using a lubrication pump for the transmission.
Q7: What are the legal requirements for towing a car?
A7: Legal requirements vary by state and country. Common requirements include having functioning lights on the towed vehicle that match the motorhome, using safety chains, and often requiring a braking system for the towed vehicle. Always research the laws for the areas you plan to travel.
Q8: Can I tow a vehicle with all four wheels on the ground?
A8: This is generally not recommended unless your vehicle’s owner’s manual specifically states it is designed for this (often referred to as “dinghy towing” or “four-down towing”). If not, it can cause severe damage to the transmission and drivetrain.
By carefully selecting your towing method, investing in the right towing accessories, performing thorough towed vehicle preparation, and conducting diligent pre-trip inspections, you can ensure safe and secure motorhome towing and enjoy the freedom your towed vehicle provides on your travels.