Free RV manual
How to Tow a Car Behind a Motorhome
Which cars can be towed four down, the gear you need, and the steps before and after every tow.
Can your car be towed
Only some cars can be towed with all four wheels on the road. The car's own owner manual says if it can, and the steps it needs. Look under towing or recreational towing. Many automatic cars cannot be towed this way without damage.
Other cars can go on a tow dolly with the front wheels up, or on a full trailer. Check the motorhome's tow rating and hitch rating before you add any of them.
The gear
Towing four down takes a base plate on the car, a tow bar, safety cables, a wiring kit for the car's lights and a brake system in the car. Most states require a brake system on a towed car over a set weight, and it is the safe choice anyway.
Before every tow
- Connect the tow bar and lock the pins.
- Cross the safety cables under the tow bar and attach them.
- Plug in the lights and check turn signals, brake lights and running lights with a helper.
- Set up the car's brake system and its breakaway cable.
- Follow the car maker's steps for the key, the gear and the fuses. Some cars need a fuse pulled or the engine run every so often.
- Release the car's parking brake last.
On the road
You cannot back up with a car towed four down. Plan your stops so you can pull through. When you unhook, do it on level ground and follow the steps in reverse.
When to call a shop
Call a shop to install a base plate, brake system or wiring. These tie into the car's frame, brakes and lights and are not a first time job.
The maker's own manuals
These guides cover how most RVs work. Your own rig may differ, so check the manual for your make and model.
- Thor Motor Coach · Motorhome owner manuals
- Winnebago · Operator manuals and diagrams
- Every maker we link to