10 Best trucks and SUVs that can be flat towed [2024 EdiTION]
Are you looking for a pickup truck that can be flat towed? You’re in the right place! Let’s explore this handy feature that many truck owners find useful.
Flat towing, also called four-down towing, lets you pull a vehicle behind an RV or another truck with all four wheels on the ground. Not all pickup trucks can be flat towed, but some models are designed for this purpose. This ability can be super helpful for road trips, camping adventures, or moving vehicles long distances without a trailer.
Our Top Picks for RV Enthusiasts
1) Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is a top choice for flat towing behind your RV or motorhome. You can tow this iconic 4×4 vehicle with all four wheels on the ground, making it super convenient for your travels.
One of the best things about flat towing a Wrangler is how easy it is to set up. You don’t need any special equipment or modifications. Just hook it up to your RV, and you’re good to go!
The Wrangler’s compact size is another big plus. It won’t add too much length to your rig, so you can still maneuver through tight spots on the road or at campsites.
Once you reach your destination, you’ll have a fun and capable vehicle to explore with. The Wrangler’s off-road prowess means you can tackle trails and reach places other cars can’t.
Remember to check your specific Wrangler model’s owner’s manual for flat towing instructions. Some years and trims may have different requirements, but most are flat-tow friendly right from the factory.
Flat towing your Wrangler also saves wear and tear on the vehicle. Unlike using a trailer, all four wheels stay on the ground, which is better for the drivetrain in the long run.
2) Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 is a popular pickup truck that you can flat tow behind your RV. This means you can pull it with all four wheels on the ground. It’s a great option if you want a versatile vehicle to use once you reach your destination.
To flat tow an F-150, you need to make sure it has the right equipment. Most F-150s with four-wheel drive can be flat towed. But you should check your owner’s manual to be sure.
You’ll need to install a base plate kit on your F-150. This connects to your RV’s tow bar. You’ll also want safety cables and a supplemental braking system for added security.
Before you start towing, put your F-150’s transfer case in neutral. This lets the wheels spin freely without damaging the transmission. Also, make sure to disconnect the battery to prevent electrical drain.
When you’re on the road, keep an eye on your F-150. Check it during stops to make sure everything’s okay. With proper setup and care, your F-150 can be a reliable companion on your RV adventures.
Remember, flat towing can affect your truck’s warranty. Always consult your dealer and owner’s manual before making any modifications. Happy travels with your F-150!
3) Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado is a popular pickup truck that you might be considering for flat towing. It’s a versatile vehicle that can handle tough jobs and long trips.
You’ll be happy to know that some Silverado models can be flat towed. This means you can pull it behind your RV with all four wheels on the ground. It’s a great option if you want to bring your truck along on your adventures.
Not all Silverados are flat towable, though. You’ll need to check the specific year and model you’re interested in. The owner’s manual is your best friend here. It’ll tell you if your Silverado can be flat towed and how to do it safely.
If your Silverado is flat towable, you’ll need to follow some steps to get it ready. This usually involves putting the transfer case in neutral and disconnecting the battery. These steps help protect your truck’s transmission while it’s being towed.
Remember, flat towing isn’t just about hooking up and going. You’ll need the right equipment, like a tow bar and safety chains. Make sure everything is connected properly before you hit the road.
When you’re not towing, the Silverado is a capable truck in its own right. It can haul and tow heavy loads, making it a great choice for work or play.
4) Dodge Ram 1500
The Dodge Ram 1500 is a popular pickup truck that you can flat tow behind your RV. This means you can pull it with all four wheels on the ground. It’s a great option if you want a tough truck to use at your campsite.
To flat tow a Ram 1500, you need to make sure it has a manual transfer case. This lets you put the truck in neutral for towing. Most Ram 1500s with four-wheel drive have this feature.
You’ll also need to install a base plate kit on your Ram. This gives you a place to attach your tow bar. Make sure to get a kit made for your specific year and model.
Before you tow, put the truck in neutral and turn the key to “ACC”. This keeps the steering wheel from locking. You should also disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent drain.
Remember to check your Ram’s owner’s manual. It has important info about flat towing your specific truck. Follow these steps carefully to keep your truck safe while towing.
The Ram 1500 is a strong truck that can handle being towed. Its tough build makes it a great choice for camping trips. You’ll have a reliable ride when you reach your destination.
5) Nissan Frontier
The Nissan Frontier is a popular pickup truck that might catch your eye if you’re looking for a vehicle to flat tow. But can you actually flat tow it? The answer depends on the specific model year and drivetrain.
For most Nissan Frontier models, flat towing isn’t recommended. The manufacturer advises against it due to potential transmission damage. This applies to both automatic and manual transmission versions.
However, there’s good news if you have an older Frontier with a manual transmission and four-wheel drive. Some pre-2005 models can be flat towed if you follow specific procedures. Always check your owner’s manual to be sure.
If you really want to tow a newer Frontier, you’ll need to use a tow dolly or trailer. This keeps the drive wheels off the ground and prevents transmission issues.
Remember, even if your Frontier can be flat towed, you’ll need the right equipment. This includes a proper tow bar, safety chains, and auxiliary brakes. You’ll also want to disconnect the driveshaft to protect the transmission.
When in doubt, ask a Nissan dealer or a professional towing service. They can give you the most up-to-date info for your specific Frontier model. Safety should always come first when towing any vehicle.
6) Toyota Tundra
The Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck that can be flat towed. This means you can pull it behind your RV with all four wheels on the ground. It’s a great option if you want a big truck to bring on your camping trips.
To flat tow a Tundra, you’ll need to put the transfer case in neutral. This lets the wheels spin freely without damaging the transmission. You’ll also need to disconnect the driveshaft to prevent wear on the transmission.
Make sure you get a good tow bar and safety chains. These keep your Tundra securely attached to your RV. You’ll also want to install a supplemental braking system. This helps your RV stop safely with the extra weight behind it.
Remember to check your Tundra’s owner’s manual before flat towing. Some model years or trim levels may have different requirements. Always follow Toyota’s guidelines to keep your truck in good shape.
When you arrive at your destination, you’ll have a capable truck to use. The Tundra can handle tough terrain and heavy loads. It’s perfect for hauling gear or towing a boat to the lake.
7) GMC Sierra 1500
The GMC Sierra 1500 is a popular pickup truck that you can flat tow. This means you can hook it up behind your RV and take it on your adventures without needing a trailer.
To flat tow your Sierra 1500, you’ll need to make sure it has four-wheel drive. This feature allows the truck to roll freely when being towed. You’ll also want to check your specific model year, as flat towing capabilities can vary.
Before hitting the road, you’ll need to put your Sierra in neutral and follow the proper steps in your owner’s manual. This usually involves disconnecting the battery and following a specific procedure to prevent transmission damage.
Remember to install a proper tow bar and safety chains. These keep your truck securely attached to your RV. You’ll also want to add auxiliary lights to the rear of your Sierra so other drivers can see your turn signals and brake lights.
When flat towing your GMC Sierra 1500, keep an eye on your speed. Most manufacturers recommend not exceeding 65 mph while towing. This helps prevent wear and tear on your truck’s components.
By following these tips, you can easily bring your Sierra 1500 along on your next RV trip. It’s a great way to have a versatile vehicle ready for exploration once you reach your destination.
8) Honda Ridgeline
The Honda Ridgeline is a unique pickup truck that might catch your eye if you’re looking for a flat-towable vehicle. But here’s the catch – it’s not actually flat-towable. Unlike some other trucks, you can’t just hook it up behind your RV and go.
Why can’t you flat-tow a Ridgeline? It’s because of how Honda designed its drivetrain. The Ridgeline uses a complex all-wheel-drive system that doesn’t allow for flat towing. If you tried, you could seriously damage the transmission.
So what can you do if you love the Ridgeline but need to tow it? You have a couple options. You could use a trailer to transport it. Or you might consider a tow dolly to lift the front wheels off the ground.
Remember, always check your owner’s manual before towing any vehicle. Honda clearly states that flat towing isn’t allowed for the Ridgeline. It’s important to follow these guidelines to keep your truck in good shape.
While the Ridgeline isn’t flat-towable, it still has lots of great features. It’s comfortable to drive and has a spacious interior. Plus, it can tow other things pretty well itself!
9) Lincoln Navigator
The Lincoln Navigator is a luxury SUV that’s not designed for flat towing. You can’t tow it with all four wheels on the ground behind an RV or motorhome. This is because of its drivetrain and transmission setup.
If you want to bring your Navigator along on trips, you’ll need to use a trailer or tow dolly. A flatbed trailer is the best option. It keeps all four wheels off the ground and protects the vehicle.
Using a tow dolly is another choice. This lifts the front wheels off the ground. But it’s not ideal for the Navigator due to its size and weight. The Lincoln towing guide has more info on proper towing methods.
Remember, flat towing the Navigator can damage its transmission and drivetrain. Always check your owner’s manual before towing any vehicle. If you need a flat-towable SUV, you might want to look at other options.
10) Chevrolet Suburban
The Chevrolet Suburban is a big, beefy SUV that’s been around for ages. You might wonder if you can flat tow it behind your RV. The answer depends on which model year and drivetrain you have.
For most Suburbans, you can’t flat tow them. They’re not set up for it from the factory. But don’t worry! There’s still hope if you really want to bring your Suburban along on your adventures.
If you have a four-wheel drive Suburban from 2010 or earlier, you’re in luck. These models can be flat towed if they have a manual transfer case. You’ll need to put the transfer case in neutral and follow the right steps.
For newer Suburbans or two-wheel drive models, flat towing isn’t recommended. The transmission could get damaged. Instead, you might want to use a tow dolly or trailer.
Remember, always check your owner’s manual before towing. It’ll give you the most up-to-date info for your specific Suburban. If you’re not sure, ask a Chevy dealer or a towing expert.
While the Suburban might not be the easiest vehicle to flat tow, it’s still a great choice for hauling and towing other things. Its size and power make it perfect for big families or anyone who needs lots of space.
What Is Flat Towing?
Flat towing is a method of towing a vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. It’s a popular choice for RV owners and travelers who want to bring their cars along on trips.
Benefits of Flat Towing
Flat towing offers several advantages for truck owners. You can save money since you don’t need to buy a trailer. It’s also easier to maneuver in tight spaces. Your truck stays level during towing, which can help prevent wear on the suspension.
Flat towing is quicker to set up and take down than other methods. You just need to hook up the tow bar and go. This saves time at campsites or rest stops.
It’s also more fuel-efficient. Your towed vehicle adds less weight and drag compared to using a trailer. This means better gas mileage on long trips.
Flat Towing vs. Dolly Towing
Flat towing and dolly towing are two common methods for towing vehicles. In flat towing, all four wheels of your truck touch the ground. With dolly towing, the front wheels are lifted onto a small trailer.
Flat towing is often easier and more convenient. You don’t need to store a dolly when not in use. It’s also gentler on your truck’s tires and suspension.
Dolly towing has its own benefits. It works for more vehicle types, including front-wheel drive cars. It can be cheaper if you only tow occasionally.
Your choice depends on your specific needs. Consider factors like your truck model, how often you tow, and your budget.
Essential Equipment for Flat Towing
To flat tow your pickup truck safely, you’ll need a few key pieces of gear. Let’s look at the must-have equipment that keeps your truck secure and makes towing easy.
Tow Bars
A tow bar is the main link between your truck and the towing vehicle. It’s like a big arm that connects the two. You want a sturdy tow bar that can handle your truck’s weight.
Look for tow bars made of strong materials like steel. They come in different styles. Some are straight, while others have a slight curve. The curved ones can make turns easier.
Make sure to get the right size for your truck. A too-small tow bar is dangerous. Most tow bars can hold 5,000 to 10,000 pounds. Check your truck’s weight to pick the right one.
Some tow bars fold up when not in use. This is handy if you don’t want to remove the bar after towing. Easy-to-use tow bars have quick-disconnect systems. These let you hook up and unhook your truck fast.
Base Plates
Base plates are crucial for flat towing. They attach to your truck’s frame and give you a spot to connect the tow bar. Each truck model needs its own specific base plate.
Installing base plates can be tricky. You might need to drill holes in your truck’s frame. If you’re not sure how to do this, it’s best to have a pro install them.
Good base plates are strong and don’t stick out too much. You want them to be almost invisible when you’re not towing. Some have removable tabs where you attach the tow bar.
Look for base plates made of powder-coated steel. This helps them resist rust and last longer. Make sure the base plate you choose is rated for your truck’s weight.
Safety Cables
Safety cables are your backup plan. They keep your truck connected if the tow bar fails. Always use two cables, one on each side of the tow bar.
You need cables rated for more than your truck’s weight. If your truck weighs 5,000 pounds, get cables rated for at least 7,500 pounds. This gives you a safety margin.
Attach the cables in a crisscross pattern. This helps keep the truck centered if it breaks free. Make sure the cables aren’t too long or too short. They should have enough slack to turn but not drag on the ground.
Look for cables with protective coating to prevent wear. Good cables have strong hooks or connectors at the ends. These should be easy to attach but not come loose on their own.
Always check your safety cables before each trip. Look for fraying or damage. Replace them if you see any wear. It’s cheap insurance against a big problem on the road.
Preparing Your Pickup Truck for Flat Towing
Getting your pickup ready for flat towing takes some work, but it’s worth it for the convenience. You’ll need to make changes to your truck’s transmission, brakes, and lights. Let’s look at what you need to do in each area.
Transmission Considerations
When flat towing your pickup, the transmission is a big deal. You need to make sure it won’t get damaged while being pulled. For manual transmissions, it’s pretty simple. Just put the truck in neutral and you’re good to go.
Automatic transmissions are trickier. Some trucks need a pump to keep the transmission fluid moving. Others might need you to take out the driveshaft. Check your truck’s manual to see what it needs.
Some newer trucks have a “neutral tow” mode. This is super handy. You just turn it on, and the truck is ready for towing. It’s like magic!
Braking System Requirements
Your truck’s brakes are crucial when flat towing. You need to make sure they work with your RV’s braking system. Most states require a supplemental braking system for towed vehicles.
There are three main types:
- Portable systems you can move between vehicles
- Permanent systems installed in your truck
- Air brake systems for bigger trucks
These systems help your RV stop safely and protect your truck’s brakes. They connect to your RV’s brake pedal or brake lines. When the RV slows down, your truck’s brakes engage too.
Don’t forget to check your emergency brake cable. It needs to be in good shape and properly connected.
Lighting and Signal Connections
Lights are super important for safety when flat towing. You need to make sure other drivers can see your truck’s lights. This includes brake lights, turn signals, and running lights.
You have a few options for connecting your truck’s lights to your RV:
- Wiring harness: This connects your truck’s lights directly to your RV.
- Magnetic lights: These stick on your truck and plug into your RV.
- Wireless systems: These are newer and don’t need any wires.
Remember to test all your lights before hitting the road. Make sure they’re working with your RV’s controls. It’s a good idea to check them every time you stop, just to be safe.
Also, some trucks need a fuse pulled to keep the battery from draining. Check your manual to see if yours does.
Frequently Asked Questions
Picking the right pickup truck for flat towing involves several key factors. Let’s look at some common questions to help you make the best choice for your needs.
What attributes should I consider for a pickup truck to ensure it is suitable for flat-towing?
When looking for a flat-towable pickup, focus on the transmission type. Manual transmissions are often easier to flat tow. Also, check the truck’s weight. Lighter trucks put less strain on your RV.
Four-wheel drive capability is another plus. It gives you more options for engaging neutral. Don’t forget to check the owner’s manual. It will tell you if flat towing is okay and how to do it right.
Can you list some budget-friendly pickup trucks that are capable of being flat towed without breaking the bank?
The Nissan Frontier is a great budget-friendly option. It’s smaller and lighter, which makes it easier to tow. Older model Ford Rangers are also good choices. They’re cheap and simple to set up for towing.
For a bit more money, look at used Chevrolet Colorado or GMC Canyon trucks. They offer good value and are often flat-towable. Just make sure to check the specific year and model before buying.
What are the top truck models from 2024 that are designed to be flat towed behind an RV?
The 2024 Ford F-150 is a top pick for flat towing. It’s built with RV enthusiasts in mind. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is another great option. It’s designed to be flat towed right from the factory.
Ram 1500 trucks from 2024 are also flat-tow friendly. They offer a mix of comfort and capability. For a smaller option, the 2024 Jeep Gladiator is perfect. It’s based on the Wrangler, which is known for being easy to tow.
How do I find a comprehensive list of vehicles, especially pickup trucks, that can be flat towed by year?
Start with RV magazines and websites. They often publish yearly guides on flat-towable vehicles. Motorhome Magazine is a good resource. They release a dinghy towing guide each year.
Check manufacturer websites too. Ford, Chevy, and Ram usually have towing guides. These list which of their trucks can be flat towed. Don’t forget to look at online RV forums. Other RV owners often share their experiences and knowledge there.
What smaller pickup trucks on the market today can be reliably flat towed for long distances?
The Jeep Gladiator is a top choice for smaller flat-towable trucks. It’s built on the Wrangler platform, which is known for easy towing. The Ford Ranger is another good option. It’s smaller than the F-150 but still capable.
For even smaller trucks, look at the Nissan Frontier. It’s compact and light, making it great for long-distance towing. The Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon are also worth considering. They offer a good balance of size and towability.
Could you share some tips on what to look for when buying a used pickup truck that I plan to flat tow?
Check the truck’s maintenance history. A well-maintained truck will be more reliable for towing. Look for any signs of previous towing damage. This could mean problems down the road.
Make sure the truck has the right equipment for flat towing. This might include a driveshaft disconnect or transfer case neutral option. Ask if the previous owner used it for flat towing. Their experience can be valuable.
Test drive the truck and pay attention to how it handles. A smooth-running truck will tow better. Finally, have a mechanic inspect it. They can spot potential issues that might affect towing.