What Automatic Transmission Cars Can Be Flat Towed?
Introduction
Flat towing is a method of towing a vehicle behind another vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. This is in contrast to trailer towing, where the towed vehicle is lifted off the ground and placed on a trailer. Flat towing is often used for recreational vehicles such as motorhomes and campers, but it can also be used for other types of vehicles, such as cars and trucks.
Not all vehicles can be flat towed, however. One of the most important factors to consider is the type of transmission the vehicle has. Manual transmission vehicles can be flat towed without any problems, but automatic transmission vehicles are more problematic. This is because automatic transmissions rely on a fluid-filled torque converter to transfer power from the engine to the wheels. When the vehicle is flat towed, the torque converter can overheat and damage the transmission.
There are some automatic transmission vehicles that can be flat towed, but they are typically limited to certain models and years. It is important to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual to see if it is approved for flat towing.
Approved Automatic Transmission Cars for Flat Towing
The following is a list of automatic transmission cars that are approved for flat towing:
* Chevrolet: Avalanche (2002-2013), Silverado 1500 (2007-2013), Suburban (2000-2013), Tahoe (2000-2013)
* Dodge: Dakota (2005-2011), Durango (2004-2013), Ram 1500 (2002-2013)
* Ford: Edge (2007-2013), Escape (2008-2013), Explorer (2002-2013), F-150 (2004-2013)
* GMC: Envoy (2002-2009), Sierra 1500 (2007-2013), Yukon (2000-2013)
* Hummer: H2 (2003-2009), H3 (2006-2010)
* Jeep: Cherokee (2008-2013), Grand Cherokee (1999-2013), Wrangler (2007-2013)
* Lincoln: Navigator (2003-2013)
* Mercedes-Benz: GL-Class (2007-2013), M-Class (2006-2013)
* Nissan: Frontier (2005-2013), Pathfinder (2005-2013), Titan (2004-2013)
* Toyota: 4Runner (2003-2013), FJ Cruiser (2007-2013), Land Cruiser (2008-2013), Sequoia (2008-2013), Tacoma (2005-2013), Tundra (2007-2013)
How to Flat Tow an Automatic Transmission Car
If you have an automatic transmission car that is approved for flat towing, you will need to follow these steps to tow it safely:
1. Put the car in neutral.
2. Release the parking brake.
3. Connect the tow bar to the front of the towing vehicle and the rear of the towed vehicle.
4. Connect the safety chains to the towing vehicle and the towed vehicle.
5. Plug the electrical cord into the towing vehicle and the towed vehicle.
6. Test the lights and brakes to make sure they are working properly.
7. Drive slowly and carefully.
Tips for Flat Towing an Automatic Transmission Car
Here are some tips for flat towing an automatic transmission car:
* Use a tow bar that is designed for flat towing.
* Use safety chains that are rated for the weight of the towed vehicle.
* Plug the electrical cord into a socket on the towing vehicle that is rated for the amperage of the towed vehicle.
* Test the lights and brakes before you start driving.
* Drive slowly and carefully.
* Avoid sudden stops and starts.
* Take breaks every few hours to let the transmission cool down.
Conclusion
Flat towing an automatic transmission car is a safe and convenient way to transport a vehicle. However, it is important to follow the steps and tips outlined above to avoid damaging the transmission.
