Can Automatic Transmission 2012 Ford Focus Be Flat Towed

Published 08/25/2016

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Universal Magnetic Tow Lights - Red LEDs - 20' Wiring Harness with 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector

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Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

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Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Way to 6-Way Coiled Adapter Cord

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Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs

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Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

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RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables - 6,000 lbs

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Question:

Can a 2012 Ford Focus SE Hatchback with auto transmission be flat towed behind an RV?

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

I did some checking and it looks like the automatic transmission 2012 Ford Focuses can be flat towed as long as you keep it under 70 MPH. I would still recommend checking the owners manual for recommendations on this as well.

For a base plate kit you would want the part # RM-524430-5 which is a confirmed fit for your vehicle. See install video.

In addition to the base plates, you will also need a compatible tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking to flat tow your vehicle. The most popular compatible tow bar is the Falcon 2, # RM-520. For safety cables you can use # RM-643. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground.

For lighting you can use the diode kit, # RM-15267, and not have to worry about cutting into the taillight housing. This will splice into your taillight wiring to allow your tow vehicle to control the taillight assemblies of the towed vehicle. This comes with a round 6-way connector that you will install on the front of your towed vehicle and enough coiled wire to go from there to the RV.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking in the vehicle being flat towed. The easiest system to set up and use is the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR, that applies the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.

Most likely you will also need a high low adapter so that the tow bar will be level when you are flat towing. I attached a link to a page that has all of the ones we carry.

I have included a couple of helpful links to our articles on flat towing for you. Be sure to consult the vehicle owners manual for more specific information on flat towing your vehicle.