Supplemental Braking Recommendations for Flat Towing a 2014 Honda CR-V  

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The brake controller that you have installed in your Class A is actually used for trailers and won't work with a supplemental braking system for your 2014 Honda CR-V. This doesn't mean that you have to disconnect it when you are flat towing though.

One of the most popular braking systems on our site is the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO # SM99251. I like recommending this system because once it is installed you just have to make a connection at the front of your CR-V and then flip a switch before going down the road. The installation is a little more involved than if you were installing a portable system like the popular Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR but the great thing is that it's a one-time install. For this system you also need the # RM-88400 relay kit to keep your brake lights working properly while towing.

The Patriot # BLU37TR is also a great braking system that is much easier to install than the DUO, but you do have to install it each time and then use the Outlet Kit # RM-9332 to power it.

A complete flat towing setup will include the supplemental braking system as well as a base plate kit, tow bar, safety cables, vehicle tow bar wiring, and typically a high-low adapter. If you don't already have some of this equipment I have some recommendations for you.

For a base plate kit I recommend the Blue Ox # BX2258 which works great with the Blue Ox Alpha Tow Bar # BX7380 which comes with safety cables rated for 6,500 lbs.

The Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit # RM-15267 is a favorite of mine when it comes to tow bar wiring. In your owner's manual it states that you need to leave your key in the accessory position when flat towing and if you tow for more than 8 hours in a day that the Accessory Radio Fuse needs to be removed. This is located in the #19 location under your hood.

Since keeping your key in the Accessory position will drain your battery, I recommend installing the Battery Charge Line Kit # RM-156-25. This connects to your battery and then to the middle pin of the 6-Way connector from the Flex-Coil wiring kit. To keep from having to get into your fuse box constantly you may also want to install the FuseMaster Fuse Bypass # RM76511

Most flat towing setups require a high-low adapter for the tow bar to remain level while towing. I have linked our selection of adapters for you to check out as well as an article that will help you determine which is the best one for your application.

I have linked some additional videos and articles that can assist you in your flat towing setup. Be sure to check your owner's manual for any specific instructions about flat towing your CR-V.

expert reply by: Jon G

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