Can 2011-2017 Jeep Compass Be Flat Towed With Manual Transmission

Updated 05/19/2021 | Published 05/15/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(4364)

$481.82

Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(339)

$1483.09

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(4369)

$475.67

Blue Ox Ascent Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2-1/2" Hitch - 7,500 lbs

(185)

$1217.25

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

(3038)

$146.94

Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles

(1124)

$40.93

Question:

I am wanting to buy a Jeep Compass year 2011 through 2017 manual transmission can a 4wd or a fwd be towed

asked by: Mark

Helpful Expert Reply:

I looked at an owner's manual for a 2014 Compass online, because it's midway through the model year span you mentioned and saw that manual transmission equipped Compass models can be flat towed with the ignition in the ACC position and the transmission in neutral. The owner's manual doesn't mention anything specific about a 4WD vehicle, but typically if the transfer case can be placed in neutral as well, flat towing isn't an issue but I'd recommend checking with a Jeep dealer for clarification.

For base plates, the Blue Ox # BX1132 fits 2011-2016 and 2016 old body style Compass models. For a tow bar, I'd go with the Blue Ox Ascent, part # BX4375 which provides the needed safety cables. For a taillight wiring harness, use # RM-15267 and for a supplemental braking system, I'd recommend the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR. I'd also recommend a towed vehicle charge line kit, part # RM-156-25 to keep your battery topped off while towing.

If the 15-1/2 inch installed height of the base plate (assuming factory tire size/ride height) is more than 3 inches higher or lower than the receiver height of the motorhome, you'll also need a high/low adapter to bring the towbar within 3 inches of level. I'll link to our selection of high/low adapters for you.