Does Vehicle Trim Level or Transmission Type Make a Difference When Flat Towing a 2012 Kia Soul

Question:

i have a ? we are thinking of buying a Kia Soul either the plus or the exclaim...We need to pull it behind a motorhome/coach with all 4 wheels down...Can we do this with either one?...Does it have to be a Manual or Auto?..We dont want to have anything changed to make it towable with all 4 wheels down...The owner maual isnt giving us the info we need..One dealship let us read about it and nothing about towing 4 wheels down.. thanks

asked by: Patti

Expert Reply:

The Kia Soul can only be flat towed if it has a manual transmission. The automatic can not be flat towed. The trim levels of the Soul Plus or the Soul Exclaim will not make a difference.

The RoadMaster EZ2 Base Plate Kit, part # 522112-1, that you have referenced will fit the 2012 Kia Soul with a manual transmission. These base plates are compatible with all RoadMaster tow bars.

For a compatible tow bar, the most popular option that is also compatible with the base plates is the RoadMaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar, part # RM-520. I have included a link to the installation details and a link to a video review of the tow bar for you.

For safety cables, I recommend the RoadMaster Coiled Cables, part # RM-643, because the coiled design will help to keep them from touching the ground.

For a lighting solution, there are several options. I have included a link to an FAQ article that covers the various options so you can decide which will be best for your specific application.

Most states now require a supplemental braking system on the vehicle being towed. The easiest system to set up and use is the RoadMaster Even Brake, part # RM-9400. This is a proportional system that applies the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. Proportional systems are the safest way to stop and they reduce wear and tear on both vehicles.

A couple of parts that will be needed to install the braking system to your Kia will be the 12 Volt Outlet Kit, part # RM-9332, and the BrakeMaster Seat Adapter, part # RM-88120. I am including a link to the instructions on the seat adapter.

I have also included a link for you to our series of FAQ articles on flat towing.