Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2012 Chevrolet Sonic

Question:

I currently use a towmaster 5000 tow bar with my motorhome , I dingy tow a 2000 nissan pathfinder but I am upgrading to a 2012 chev sonic that I would like to pull ,...what do I need ?

asked by: Rob

Expert Reply:

Before you begin flat towing your new 2012 Chevrolet Sonic, you will want to verify a few things first. If your vehicle has a 1.4 Liter engine and an automatic transmission, then it cannot be flat towed and must be towed using a tow dolly, like part # RM-2050-1. If it has a 1.4L engine and a manual transmission, or has a 1.8L engine and is automatic or manual, then you can flat tow your vehicle.

The items that you will need to flat tow your vehicle are a tow bar, base plate kit, wiring harness, safety cables and a supplemental braking system.

If your tow bar is the Roadmaster Stowmaster 5000, which is the older version of the Stowmaster 6,000 lbs tow bar, # RM-501, then you can use the Roadmaster EZ4 Base Plate Kit, # 523173-4. If your tow bar is made by a different manufacturer, then you will need an adapter to use the base plates, let me know the manufacturer name if it is not a Roadmaster tow bar so I can check for an appropriate adapter.

For a supplemental braking system, I would recommend the Roadmaster InvisiBrake Braking System, # RM-8700. This is our most popular braking system and can install permanently on your vehicle eliminating the need to remove or reinstall the system each time you tow your vehicle.

You have a couple different options for a wiring harness. You can use the Roadmaster Tail Light Wiring Kit, # RM-155. This kit will require you to install additional bulbs in your tail light housing that will be used for the turn and brake signals.

Another option would be the Roadmaster Magnetic Tow Lights, # RM-2120. These are the easiest lights to use and do not require installation or splicing to work on your vehicle. They simply attache to your vehicle with magnets.

Finally, you will just need a set of safety cables, # RM-643, if you do not already have a set. These items will get you started to tow your new Chevy Sonic behind your motor home. I have attached a few help articles on flat towing for you to check out.