Items Needed To Flat Tow 2021 Mini Cooper S Hardtop

Question:

Hello Im trying to determine which tow bar baseplate Blue Ox or Roadmaster for my new 2021 Mini S will require the least amount of modification to the Mini and also be the least obtrusive when not in use. I will use the Mini as a daily driver as well as a toad. Is the Blue Ox Ascent aluminum tow bar worth the extra dollars? Can you also provide the complete list of equipment needed to tow the Mini Cooper? Is there a wiring kit that includes all necessary parts for rear lights, keeping my battery charged, etc. I dont know if I need straight or coiled wiring? Also will a supplemental braking system like the Stay-IN-Play Duo be compatible with all of this? Thanks so much!

asked by: Barry

Expert Reply:

To flat tow your 2021 Mini Cooper requires at minimum a base plate kit, tow bar, wiring for indicator lights, safety cables and supplemental braking.

I suggest the Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit with removable arms, # RM-521882-5. This hidden bracket design provides the improved aesthetics you want with a simple bolt-on installation. Please note the attached installation video of these base plates being put on to a 2016 model Mini.

For your tow bar, I suggest the Roadmaster Nighthawk All Terrain, Non-Binding Tow Bar w/ LED Lights, # RM-676 as the top of the line option from Roadmaster for your direct connect base plates. This is a lightweight, aircraft-grade aluminum body with steel and stainless steel material built in at critical points to maintain structural integrity. It then receives a powder coat finish providing a very durable product that will hold up to sever weather and road conditions for years of service. Best of all, this is a non-binding design so it is far easier to release when on uneven terrain or the Mini is not perfectly lined up with the motorhome. Another great thing about this option is that it comes with the needed safety cables and power wiring too. The electrical cord has 7-way RV-style plug on 1 end and 6-way plug on other.

You will also need a lighting solution, I suggest the Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit, # RM-15267. We also have an installation video for this item being installed on a 2016 Mini. Please note the link below. And for a charge line kit, the Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles, # RM-156-25.

Depending on arrangement of your tow vehicle, hitch height, you may need a ball mount with a different drop to set the tow bar level. I have attached a link to a help article showing how to measure and a link to the fixed ball mounts section.

The last main item needed is supplemental braking. All states now require supplemental braking for flat towed vehicles. The preferred system by several of our installers is the item you mentioned and the system I recommend, the Demco SBS Stay-IN-Play DUO Supplemental Braking System, # SM99251. With this you get proportional braking with a system that never has to be removed, replaced, or reset. The DUO activates when your RV's brake lights go on and an inertia sensor in the towed car detects deceleration. No false braking. (see the linked video of this installed on a 2014 Mini Cooper.

Be sure to consult your vehicle owners manual for specific information on flat towing.