Parts Needed for Flat-Towing a 2013 Honda CR-V

Question:

I need info on towing a pre-owned Honda with our 35 ft. gas engine motor home. We have had a 2007 Saturn Ion for the past 6 years. It is easy to tow, as all I have to do is take out one fuse, put the gears in neutral, take off the brake, put the ignition key in Accessories, hook the car up to the tow system, and away we go. I am hoping that my choice of a newer, somewhat larger vehicle 2013 Honda CR-V will be as simple. Please help ASAP.

asked by: Betty B

Expert Reply:

To flat to your 2013 Honda CR-V you would need to first start with a base plate kit and tow bar. I like the Demco systems because the tow bars have independent moving arms and already come with the safety cables. The Demco base plates for your CR-V are part # DM9519328 and the Commander tow bar, part # DM9511012, will pair up with them nicely.

For lighting you can use the diode kit, # RM-15267, and not have to worry about cutting into the taillight housing. This will splice into your taillight wiring to allow your tow vehicle to control the taillight assemblies of the towed vehicle. This comes with a round 6-way connector that you will install on the front of your towed vehicle and enough coiled wire to go from there to the RV.A fuse bypass like part # RM76511 is also recommended. It looks like there are some fuses that need to be pulled when you flat tow your vehicle like your Ion.

For a braking system, I really like the Stay-IN-Play DUO, part # SM99251. It's a longer install but once that's overwith all you do is a flip a switch for it to be ready each time you tow.

According to my research, both the FWD and AWD models of the 2013 CR-V are capable of being flat towed, but I strongly urge you to confirm this for yourself by consulting your owner's manual or Honda dealer for any restrictions or advice.

I've linked you to some installation and product demonstration videos as well as some helpful articles about flat towing.