Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2012 GMC Terrain Behind a Class C Motor Home

Expert Reply:

The first thing I would recommend to do is to check your owners manual or with the GMC dealer on the proper procedure for towing the vehicle. Some vehicles might need to be equipped with a transmission lube pump, an axle disconnect, drive line disconnect or free-wheeling hubs before they can be towed.

To flat tow your 2012 GMC Terrain you will need a tow bar, base plates, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking.

Also, the Discrete Logic Ignition Switch fuse (fuse #32) needs to be removed from the instrument panel fuse box. The instrument panel fuse box is located on the passenger side of the center console, behind a cover. That fuse needs to be removed to keep the battery from being drained when towing.

First, you will need the Roadmaster EZ Base Plate Kit, part # 523163-1, to tow your vehicle. With the base plates installed, you would then need a tow bar compatible with EZ style base plates. The RoadMaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar, part # RM-520, would be an excellent choice. I am including a link to the installation details and a video review.

To complete the towing set up for your Terrain, you will need safety cables, lighting, and a supplemental braking system as required by law. For safety cables, I recommend RoadMaster 64 inch Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables, # RM-643.

For lights, there are a couple of options. If you do not plan on towing the Terrain often, I recommend the Magnetic Light Kit, part # C-ATL20A. If you do plan on towing it frequently, I recommend installing Roadmaster Tail Light Wiring Kit, part # RM-155. This wiring kit will have independent bulbs and sockets that are mounted inside the tail lights. This will bypass the towed vehicles electrical system completely. I am including a link to a FAQ page on choosing the best wiring kit for you.

For a braking system, the easiest to use and install would be the Roadmaster Even Brake Portable Proportional Braking System, # RM-9400. This system installs quickly so you are ready to go in minutes. It engages the towed vehicle brakes proportionally to how much the towing vehicle is braking, reducing wear of both vehicles brakes.

There are other items you will need to install the Even Brake system to your towing setup.

The Roadmaster 12 Volt Outlet Kit, part # RM-9332, will connect to the towed vehicles battery and provide power for the braking system.
The Roadmaster Stoplight Switch, # RM-751439, attaches to the brake pedal in the towed vehicle.

I am including a link to FAQ articles that will help you with any questions you might have on flat towing a vehicle.

With these items installed you will be able to flat tow your GMC Terrain with your Class C motor home.

expert reply by: Jeff D