Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2014 Chevy Sonic and Tow Defender Recommendation for EZ5 Base Plate
Question:
I am using a Base Plate #523173-5 for a 2014 Chevy Sonic and a Falcon All-terrain tow bar #522. It looks like both the Guardian and the Tow Defender arent options for me, correct? So, then, what options do I have? If Roadmaster doesnt have a way for me to protect my car, then are there other aftermarket options?
asked by: Larry
Expert Reply:
I spoke to my contact at Roadmaster and with an EZ5 base plate kit like the part # RM-523173-5 there is a Tow Defender option, part # RM-4750.
The base plate kit part # RM-523173-5 is the correct base plate kit for your 2014 Chevy Sonic.
In addition to the base plates, you will also need a compatible tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking to flat tow your vehicle. The most popular compatible tow bar is the Falcon 2, # RM-522 like what you have. For safety cables you can use # RM-643. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground.
For lighting you can use the bulb and socket kit, # RM-155, and not have to worry about cutting and splicing into the vehicle wiring.
And finally, most states now require supplemental braking in the vehicle being flat towed. The easiest system to set up and use is the Even Brake proportional system, # RM-9400, that applies the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.
I have included a couple of helpful links to our articles on flat towing for you. Be sure to consult the vehicle owners manual for more specific information on flat towing your vehicle.
Products Referenced in This Question
Roadmaster Tail Light Wiring Kit with Bulbs
- Tow Bar Wiring
- Bypasses Vehicle Wiring
- Bulb and Socket Kit
- Universal
- Tail Light Mount
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Tow Defender Protective Screen for Towed Vehicles
- Accessories and Parts
- Tow Bar
- Vehicle Guards
- Protective Screening
- Tow Defender
- Roadmaster
more information >
RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables - 6,000 lbs
- Safety Cables
- Coiled Cables
- 68 Inch Long
- 6000 lbs GTW
- Snap Hooks
- Coated Cables
- Roadmaster
more information >
Roadmaster Even Brake Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional
- Tow Bar Braking Systems
- Brake Systems
- Proportional System
- Recurring Set-Up
- Portable System
- Not Power Assist Brake Compatible
- Air Brakes
- Air Over Hydraulic Brakes
- Hydraulic Brakes
- Roadmaster
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Base Plates
- Removable Drawbars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Roadmaster
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: Can You Flat Tow a Jeep Compass?
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Q&A: Availability of Rebuild Kit for Older Blue Ox Aventa Tow Bar BX7330
- Article: Best Vehicles to Flat Tow Behind an RV
- Article: Flat Towing Package for 2007 Honda CR-V
- Article: The Definitive, Step-by-Step Flat Towing Setup Guide
- Article: Flat Towing Package for 2005-2007 Jeep Liberty
- Q&A: Can a 2015 Chevy Sonic with Automatic Transmission be Flat Towed
- Q&A: Can 2015 Chevrolet Sonic W/ Automatic Transmission Be Flat Towed?
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between Roadmaster Direct Connect and Crossbar Style Base Plates?