Recommended Flat Towing Set Up for a 2017 Kia Forte

Question:

I’m want to flat tow a 2017 Kia Forte. Which brake controller will I need? I have a 2024 Jayco Precept 34g to pull it.

asked by: John R

Expert Reply:

Hey John what you're looking for isn't a brake controller it's called a supplemental braking system and they're required by law if you're flat towing a vehicle. The best all around system is the one you were looking at, the Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo Flat Tow Brake System for RVs w/ Hydraulic Brakes item # SM99251.

The Demco Stay-IN-Play item # SM99251 is a proportional braking system that permanently installs in your Kia Forte. It activates your Kia's brakes when your RV decelerates or you press your pedal. The system responds by activating your Kia's brakes with the same amount of force your RV is braking with. This is not only the safest way to stop but also the easiest equipment wise on both your RV and Kia.

I do want to point out that our information states that only the manual models of the 2017 Kia Forte's can be flat towed. If you have an automatic transmission you'll need to use a tow dolly like the Demco Kar Kaddy SS Tow Dolly item # DM9713045. If you end up going the tow dolly route you won't need a supplemental braking system because it has surge brakes built into it that do not require separate system or a brake controller.

Here are some other parts you will need to flat tow a 2017 Kia Forte with a manual transmission:

Tow Bar and Safety Chains - Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar item # RM-520 and item # RM-643

Base Plate Kit - Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms item # RM-521640-5

Wiring Harness - Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit item # RM-15267

High Low Adapter - The tow bar needs to be within 3" of level. If you measure the height of the inside top of the hitch receiver tube on your RV, and the height difference is more than 3 inches above/below the base plate tab height, you'll need a high/low adapter. I have linked a FAQ article that explains all this in more detail along with our selection of adapters.