“Is it possible to flat tow my vehicle behind an RV?”
Thinking about going on an adventure in Australia? Whether it’s a quick weekend escape or an epic road trip across the country, hopping into an RV can really make your journey comfy and unforgettable. But let’s be real, not everyone owns it. A lot of us rely on our trusty cars. And if you’re off to a faraway destination in a rented RV, leaving your vehicle behind isn’t really an option.
That’s where flat towing comes in!
It’s a fantastic way to bring your car along without the fuss of a trailer. But is it really that simple to flat tow? Well, no, there’s a bit of a catch. Not every vehicle is suitable for this. And even if yours is, there are some tips to keep in mind. In this blog, Brisbane Towing and Recovery – popular for best caravan towing services in Brisbane – will lay out a list of flat towable vehicles and share some guidelines for a safe experience.
Let’s make your next adventure truly remarkable and smooth sailing.
What Vehicles Are Flat Towable?
Also called dinghy towing, flat towing allows drivers to pull their other vehicle behind an RV or another tow vehicle without a trailer. Not all cars are built for this, as we said before. Some require modifications. Others, however, can be towed as-is. The key is to look at transmission type, drivetrain, and manufacturer guidelines – something that we will discuss ahead in our blog.
Below is a breakdown of flat-towable vehicles. We have arranged them in different categories:
Manual transmission vehicles
One of the simplest vehicles to flat tow is a manual transmission van. Why, you ask? Because their transmission can be moved into the neutral position without damaging the drivetrain. However, always consult the owner’s manual. It will tell you exactly what you need to do.
Some may require the engine running or the transfer case to be in a certain position, especially for 4WD vehicles. Here are some popular manual transmission vehicles that can be flat-towed in Australia:
- Jeep Wrangler (JK, JL)
- Ford Bronco (with manual option)
- Toyota Tacoma (manual 4×4)
- Subaru WRX (manual)
- Nissan Frontier (manual)
Automatic transmission vehicles having neutral tow kits
Ah, automatic cars – shift like magic, smooth as jazz on a Sunday ride. Clutch? No fuss. Just gas, glide, and pure drive pride! But truth be told, a large number of modern-day automatic vehicles can’t be flat towed unless fitted with a neutral tow kit. You can also use a special driveline disconnect for RV towing.
Without these, transmission can get damaged because of insufficient lubrication. Always confirm manufacturer guidelines before flat-towing automatic transmission vehicles. Talking about which models you can shift in this type, here are some names:
- Jeep Grand Cherokee (with transfer case modifications)
- Ford F-150 (with proper driveline disconnects)
- Chevrolet Silverado (with aftermarket kits)
- Toyota 4Runner (certain model years)
- Dodge Ram 1500 (with approved setup)
All-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles
AWD and 4WD vehicle owners might have to work extra before flat towing. For starters, they have to shift into neutral and disengage the transfer case. Some may even require a lubrication pump to spare the transmission when it comes to towing.
Here are some popular flat-towable AWD/4WD vehicles:
- Jeep Wrangler
- Ford Bronco (with proper setup)
- Toyota Land Cruiser (models of certain years)
- Subaru Outback (with transmission modifications)
- Chevrolet Tahoe (with driveline disconnect)
Don’t forget to check out these resources:
Safety inspection checklist for legal towing compliance
Emergency towing in Brisbane: 10 things to keep in mind
Types of tow trucks: Everything you need to know
10 car towing tips to avoid accidents in 2025
Vehicles with dedicated flat-tow modes
Some latest car models now support built-in flat-tow modes. This makes the whole towing process easier. These systems automatically prepare the transmission and drivetrain for safe shipment. Here are the popular 4-wheeler vehicles with factory-approved flat-tow modes:
- Ford Bronco (with trail tow package)
- Jeep Gladiator (with factory two setup)
- Cheverloet, Colorado (with proper configuration)
- GMC Canyon
- Honda CR-V (older models with specific guidelines)
How to Safely Flat Tow Vehicles in Australia?
There’s no denying the fact that flat towing offers freedom for road trips. But hey, another truth is that doing it wrong can cause costly damage. We bet you don’t want that, right? If yes, consider these tips for a safe towing experience in Australia:
Check your vehicle’s towing compatibility
Before building a home on land, you always check for soil quality, legal clearances, and structural feasibility, correct? Just like this, you should check whether your car is flat-towable or not. Many modern cars, especially those with automatic transmission or all-wheel drive, need particular adjustments like a neutral tow kit and driveline disconnect.
Directly check your owner’s manual or call the manufacturer. Towing an incompatible vehicle may cause extreme damage to the transmission. Leaving you stranded on the road and facing costly repairs.
Use the right towing equipment
Quality towing equipment is a must-have when it comes to safety. Solid baseplate, heavy-duty tow bar, good wiring harness – all these tools ensure a strong connection between car and RV. Cheap or ill-fitting equipment may break in transit, risking accidents and damage.
To ensure your safety and steadiness while on Australian roads, invest in certified flat towing accessories designed for your specific model of vehicle.
Secure steering and brakes
Properly immobilizing your towed vehicle’s steering and braking prevents dangerous will help you avoid dangerous tipping or loss of control. While you might have features supporting these in Automatic cars, Manual-powered ones require ignition in accessory mode.
For brake systems, the addition of supplemental braking is often needed to comply with Australian road safety guidelines and have responsive braking power.
Follow speed and distance guidelines
One of the most important tips to consider when flat-towing your vehicle. Given your car is connected to RV, under no circumstances should you go over 90 km/h. Going above this means increasing sway risks and reducing reaction time. Plan your route accordingly to avoid steep grades when possible.
Make stops after every 2-3 hours to observe connections and the temperature of tyres. Ensure brake systems also work well. Such measures can avoid unsafe conditions arising when long journeys are undertaken through Australia’s varied landscape.
Hire professional towing services when in doubt
Finding towing your vehicle too complex? Unfamiliar route? In both situations, hiring professional services will provide some assurance. Brisbane Towing and Recovery has been a PRO in the area of flat towing for 10 years.
We work with fully equipped vehicles and experienced operators who understand Australian road regulations. Our services can especially turn out to be helpful when handling fragile cars, long-distance moving, or a case when you simply do not have any towing apparatus available.
We will ensure your beloved vehicle arrives safely at its destination without risking damage or roadside emergencies.
Learn about the best low vehicle towing in Brisbane
Safely Flat Towing Vehicles in Australia: Final Words
There you go!
We shared a list of vehicles that can be flat towed, along with essential safety tips to ensure a smooth journey. We really hope you will now be prepared for your next adventure without the stress of leaving your vehicle behind. Always keep in mind that proper preparation is key. Double-check your vehicle’s towing compatibility, use the right equipment, and follow safe driving practices.
And if you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to call in professionals. For reliable flat towing services in Brisbane, call us on 0438 155 555. We will get you and your vehicle where you need to go. Safely and reliably!
Also, check out our most popular services:
Accident towing services in Brisbane
