How to Tow a Car Behind an RV?

Are you planning a road trip with your RV, but need to include your car as well? Maybe you’re just curious about how to tow a car behind an RV?

Towing a vehicle is not only intimidating, but can be tricky and requires the right set of tools and preparation.

Whether you are hoping to bring along a second car or motorcycle, it’s important that you know the ins and outs so that safety is top priority.

In this article we’ll cover everything there is to know about safely towing any type of vehicle behind an RV!

Equipment Needed to Tow a Car Behind an RV

Trailer Hitch Installation

You need to put a trailer hitch on your RV if you want to tow a car behind it. You need this even if you are using a tow dolly or other type of trailer.

The trailer hitch goes on the back of your motorhome. The tow bar will be connected to the trailer hitch.

Installing a trailer hitch requires some specialised tools and knowledge. If you are not confident in your ability to safely install a trailer hitch, it is best to hire a professional to do it for you. [1]

Electrical Connections

It is important to make the right electrical connections between your car and your RV. The most common connection is a four-wire system. This has two ground wires (white), a brake wire (red or blue), and a turn signal wire (yellow).

You will need to connect the appropriate wires from your RV to those on the towed vehicle. This will allow the signals from your RV to operate the lights on your car, and vice versa.

Ways to Tow Your Car Behind Your RV

Once you have the right equipment, it is time to decide how you want to tow your car. You can choose between a tow bar and a tow dolly.

A tow dolly is a good option if you want to tow a car because it is lighter and will not drag as much. However, you should only use a tow dolly if your RV can hold the weight of your car.

Equipment Needed for Four Down Towing

Tow Bar

The tow bar is the most important piece of equipment for four down towing. It connects your car and your RV together, allowing you to manoeuvre both vehicles at the same time.

Tow bars come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so make sure to get one that is appropriate for your vehicle and trailer combination.

Base Plate Kit Installed On the Toad

The base plate kit is installed on the car that is being towed (also known as the toad). It attaches to the frame of the vehicle and provides a secure connection point for the tow bar.

Wiring Kit

The wiring kit will allow your RV and car to communicate. It includes several different connections, including the brake lights, turn signals, and running lights.

Safety Cables

Safety cables are essential for four down towing. They provide an extra layer of protection in case your tow bar becomes disconnected from your vehicle or trailer. The safety cables should be attached between the tow bar and the vehicle being towed.

Supplemental Braking System

A supplemental braking system is either a brake pedal or an electric switch that engages the brakes on the car being towed when your RV’s brakes are applied.

This helps to reduce wear and tear on your RV and provides extra safety for both vehicles.

Towing a car behind your RV can be a great way to save money while you’re travelling. You’ll need the right tools and preparation, but with those you can safely tow your car and explore as much as you want!

Can You Tow Any Kind of Car Behind an RV?

You can tow any kind of car behind an RV. But the size and weight of the car will affect how you tow it. Make sure that your towing capacity is enough and that all equipment can handle the weight.

Some cars might need special adapters or changes so that it can be towed safely. If you are not sure, ask a professional for help.

How to Find Out What Ways You Can Safely Tow Your Car?

The best way to find out how you can safely tow your car is to read the owner’s manual for both the RV and the vehicle you are going to tow.

If you are still unsure, consult a professional for advice or ask your RV dealership for more information. They will be able to provide you with all the information you need so that you can safely tow your car behind your RV. [2]

Tips for Towing a Car Behind an RV (Dinghy Towing)

Before you set out on your trip, make sure that you:

• Check the towing capacity of your RV and trailer. Your towing capacity should be higher than the weight of your car so that you can tow it safely.
• Make sure all the equipment is properly installed and connected. This includes the base plate kit, tow bar, safety cables, wiring kit, and supplemental braking system.
• Check that the brakes on your car are functioning properly. Make sure to test them before you set out so that you can be sure they will work when needed.
• Make sure all of the lights on your RV and trailer are working correctly. This includes the brake lights, turn signals and running lights.
• Check your tires for wear and tear. Make sure to check them often during your trip as well.
• Make sure you have all the necessary safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers and reflective triangles in case of an emergency.

What Vehicles Make the Perfect RV Tow Car?

There are a few things to think about when you choose the car you will tow behind your RV. Some of the things you should consider are the size and weight of the car, how much space you have available in your RV, and what kind of terrain you plan on travelling.

Some good cars to tow an RV are smaller cars like the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla. These cars are lightweight and get good gas mileage, making them perfect for RV towing.

SUVs also make great tow vehicles due to their size and weight, but they can sometimes be hard to turn around tight corners.

What Are the Benefits of Towing a Car Behind an RV?

Towing a car behind an RV provides several benefits.

• First, it eliminates the need for renting cars at every destination. This can save money and reduce stress from planning.
• Second, it allows you to explore remote places and have access to more activities than you would if you only had an RV.
• Finally, it provides an extra layer of safety for both vehicles by having a supplemental braking system in place.

FAQ

Is it OK to tow an automatic car in neutral?

Yes, it is OK to tow an automatic car in neutral. However, you should make sure that the parking brake is disengaged and the wheels are chocked before you begin towing.

Do I need a special licence to tow a car?

No, you do not need a special licence to tow a car behind an RV. However, you should always drive with caution and make sure that the weight of your vehicle does not exceed the towing capacity of your RV.

What is the best way to store my tow car while traveling?

The best way to store a tow car while traveling is to secure it properly with wheel chocks and use a car cover to protect it from the elements. You may also want to consider using a security system or lock and chain to further secure your vehicle while you are away.

What type of cars can be flat towed behind an RV?

Most front wheel drive cars can be flat towed. However, it is best to consult with your manual or car seller to make sure that your specific model is tow-ready before you set out on your trip.

Additionally, cars with automatic transmissions must be in neutral and have the parking brake disengaged before they are towed behind an RV.

Are there any special precautions to take when flat-towing a car?

Yes, there are several precautions that you should take when flat-towing a car. Make sure that the brakes on your car are in good working condition and check them often.

Additionally, use wheel chocks for extra security and use supplemental braking systems to help slow your vehicle while in motion.

Finally, you should make sure that the lights on both your RV and car are functioning properly before setting out on your trip.

What is the easiest car to tow behind a motorhome?

The easiest car to tow behind a motorhome is likely a smaller car like the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla.

These lightweight cars have good gas mileage and can easily be manoeuvred around tight corners. Additionally, they tend to require less maintenance than larger SUVs.

How do you hook up a tow car to an RV?

Hooking up a tow car to an RV is relatively straightforward. First, make sure that the car is in neutral and the parking brake is disengaged. Then, attach the tow hitch to your vehicle using a locking pin and secure it with chains or straps.

Finally, plug in the wiring harness from your car into your RV’s electrical ports and make sure that the lights are functioning properly. Once everything is connected and secure, you can begin towing your car behind your RV.

Can you legally tow a car behind a motorhome?

In most states, you can legally tow a car behind your motorhome. However, you should always check the laws of the state you will be traveling through to make sure that you are following all applicable laws and regulations. Additionally, you should always make sure that your tow vehicle is properly attached and secured before setting out on your trip.

Does towing a car behind an RV damage it?

No, if you do it correctly, towing a car behind an RV will not damage the car. But you should always check the car for damage before and after each trip.

Additionally, use a supplemental braking system when possible and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for attaching the tow hitch to your car.

Can you tow a car behind an RV without brakes?

No, it is not recommended that you tow a car behind an RV without brakes. It is always best to use supplemental braking systems for added safety and stability during your trip.

Does towing a car behind an RV affect gas mileage?

Yes, towing a car behind an RV will reduce the fuel efficiency of both vehicles. This is due to the added weight and resistance created by the tow vehicle. Be sure to account for this when calculating your trip costs and budget accordingly.

What is the safest way to tow a car behind an RV?

The safest way to tow a car behind an RV is by using a supplemental braking system. This will help reduce the added friction created by the tow vehicle and make your trip much safer.

What is the best way to secure a car while being towed behind an RV?

The best way to secure a car while being towed behind an RV is by using wheel chocks. Wheel chocks are placed against the tires of your tow vehicle and help prevent it from shifting or becoming loose during travel.

Additionally, make sure that you use chains or straps to securely attach the tow hitch to your car before setting out on your trip.

How often should you check the connection of your tow car to an RV?

It is recommended that you check the connection of your tow car to an RV at least once every hour. Be sure to inspect all the parts, including the hitch, chains, and straps for any signs of wear or damage.

Additionally, test the lights on both your RV and car at regular intervals to make sure they are functioning properly.

How much does it cost to tow a car behind an RV?

The cost of towing a car behind an RV varies depending on the size and weight of the vehicle being towed. Typically, rental companies charge anywhere from $25 to $100 per day for the service.

Additionally, you may be required to purchase additional insurance coverage while your car is being towed.

Does towing a car behind an RV require special insurance?

Yes, some states may require you to purchase additional liability insurance for your tow vehicle. Be sure to check with the laws of the state you will be traveling through before setting out on your trip.

Additionally, it is always best practice to make sure that both vehicles are covered by comprehensive auto insurance.

Do I need special equipment for towing a car behind an RV?

Yes, depending on the type of vehicle you are towing, you may require additional equipment. This could include wheel chocks, tow bars, and hitches. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions before attempting to tow any vehicle.

How can I maintain my car while being towed behind an RV?

To keep your car in top condition while being towed behind an RV, make sure to check the brakes and other components of the vehicle at regular intervals.

Additionally, use a supplemental braking system whenever possible to help reduce added friction caused by the tow vehicle.

Finally, be sure to inspect all the parts of the tow hitch, including chains and straps, for any signs of wear or damage before setting out on your journey.

Which speed should I stay at while towing a car behind an RV?

It is recommended that you drive slow when towing a car behind an RV. Go 55 mph or less. Additionally, make sure that there is space between your vehicles and other drivers on the road.

If possible, take breaks every two hours or so to check your connection and any other safety aspects of the tow vehicle. By doing this, you can ensure that everything is in working order and safe before driving.

What should I do if I experience a breakdown while towing a car behind an RV?

If you experience a breakdown while towing a car behind an RV, the first thing to do is to bring both vehicles safely off the road. Once you have done that, contact a tow truck or other roadside assistance service for help.

Be sure to let them know that you are towing a car behind an RV and also provide all relevant information about your vehicle and the tow vehicle.

Can I tow a car behind an RV if I rent it?

Yes, you can tow a car behind an RV if you rent it. However, make sure to check the terms and conditions of your rental agreement first as some companies may not allow this.

Additionally, be sure to inform the rental company about your plans for towing a car before signing any contracts. Lastly, make sure that you have all the required equipment and safety precautions in place before setting out on your journey.

Can I get insurance coverage for towing a car behind an RV?

You can get insurance coverage for towing a car behind an RV. Most comprehensive auto insurance policies provide coverage in the event of a breakdown or other unexpected issues while towing.

However, it is important to check your policy’s terms and conditions before setting out on your trip. Additionally, you may need to purchase additional coverage if you plan on towing a car for extended periods of time or across state lines.

Is there a way to make towing a car behind an RV safer?

Yes, there are things you can do to make it safer to tow a car behind an RV.

• First, check that all the parts of your tow vehicle and hitch are working before you start driving.
• Second, use safety chains whenever possible in case something goes wrong.
• Third, practice driving with the tow vehicle before you go on your trip.
• And fourth, always drive the speed limit when you are towing a car behind an RV.

What is the best way to back up an RV while towing a car?

The best way to back up an RV while towing a car is to use spotters. Spotters should be placed on both sides of the vehicle and they will help guide you as you reverse. Additionally, it is important to take your time when backing up with a car in tow. Finally, make sure to check your mirrors and blind spots before making any turns or reversing.

Does towing a car behind an RV require special permits or licenses?

In most cases, no special permits or licenses are required to tow a car behind an RV. However, it is important to check your state and local laws before setting out on your journey.

Additionally, some states may have specific requirements for the type of hitch that can be used for towing.

Which types of vehicles are not suitable for towing a car behind an RV?

Certain types of vehicles, such as motorcycles and large recreational vehicles, are not suitable for towing a car behind an RV.

Additionally, it is important to remember that cars with manual transmissions cannot be towed. Lastly, always make sure that the tow vehicle has adequate brakes and that the brakes on the car being towed are in good working condition.

Should I use a brake controller if I’m towing a car behind an RV?

Yes, it is recommended to use a brake controller when towing a car behind an RV. A brake controller will help you slow down the tow vehicle and ensure that the brakes on both vehicles are working properly.

Additionally, it is important to check your state laws as some states may require the use of a brake controller while towing.

Useful Video: How to Flat Tow Behind an RV

Conclusion

If you’re towing a car behind an RV, there are a few things you need to do in order to ensure everyone’s safety on the road. First of all, be sure to read your RV owner’s manual as well as your car owner’s manual. There will be specific instructions on how to properly hook up and tow your car.

Next, check all of your lights before setting out – both on the RV and the car – and test them regularly throughout your trip. It’s also important to drive carefully, staying aware of other motorists at all times.

By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to tow your car behind an RV safely and enjoy peace of mind while on vacation.

References:

1. https://www.outdoorsy.com/blog/3-ways-to-tow-a-car-behind-your-rv
2. https://www.thervgeeks.com/towing-a-car-behind-an-rv/