Do I Need to Disconnect the Battery to Flat-Tow a 2020 Spark LS Manual Transmission

Question

Question:

I read one of Heathers responses wrt this topic and since an active 12V outlet needs to be active to work with the Patriot braking system, does the ignition also need to be in accessory mode? And if so, should one disconnect the Electronic Stable Control system when flat towing a Spark? Just read a few other peoples horror stories of having brake issues when flat towing a Spark even without a supplemental braking system

asked by: Gene M

0

Expert Reply:

You will have to disconnect the battery on your 2020 Chevrolet Spark to flat-tow it. Since the battery will be disconnected, the ignition will not be in accessory mode. You will not need to disconnect the Electronic Stable Control system.

To disconnect the battery I recommend the Roadmaster Automatic Battery Disconnect with Switch for Towed Vehicle w/ Supplemental Braking System # RM-766. I recommend this switch because it easily disconnects the battery in your towed vehicle. You will need the Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles # RM-156-25. This charge line kit maintains your battery and keeps the battery from draining. while being towed.

If you are going with the Blue Ox Patriot Portable Braking System - Proportional # BLU37TR as your supplemental braking system, the 12 Volt Outlet Kit, 20 amps # RM-9332 will connect to your battery. You will then plug your supplemental braking system into this outlet, giving it the power it needs to run as the vehicle is being towed.

expert reply by: Thomas M

0

Answer 1

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Answer 2

GM states in the owner's manual that to recreationally tow the vehicle, the negative battery cable must be disconnected. The owner's manual doesn't list a specific reason, it only states that failure to do so could damage the vehicle. The…

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Answer 3

Yes, even with the Brake Buddy Stealth #HM39530 you should disconnect the battery on your 2022 Chevy Spark before flat towing it. Even with a battery maintainer the battery can and will still run down. I know this can be a pain but disconnecting the…

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Answer 4

Congratulations on the new 2020 Chevy Spark LS. To flat tow the Spark, it will need a base plate to begin with. I recommend Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms part #BX1725 which have removable base plate tabs for a discreet look when not in use.…

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Answer 5

When flat towing a vehicle you have to go by what is listed in the owners manual of the vehicle as the proper process otherwise you might damage something or end up being a danger to other motorists. Most likely you have to disconnect the battery of…

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Answer 6

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Answer 7

When it comes to choosing between the Blue Ox Patriot #BLU37TR and the Brake Buddy Select 3 #HM39524, these systems are extremely similar in their setup and functionality. Both of these systems provide proportional braking in a compact and easy to…

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Answer 8

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Answer 9

Both the Roadmaster and Blue Ox tow bars are great options. But if it was my decision to make I would go with the Blue Ox Avail part #BX7420 as we have found that the Blue Ox tow bars are a little easier to connect and disconnect from. Also this tow…

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Answer 10

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Answer 11

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Answer 12

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