Recommended Minivan Model for Flat Towing Behind Motorhome

Question:

Would like to flat tow a minivan. Is their any particular year, make, model that would work? Just starting my search.

asked by: Joe B

Expert Reply:

All the minivans currently available are front wheel drive (FWD) or all wheel drive (AWD), which cannot be flat towed with all 4 wheels on the ground.

If you choose a FWD model, you could possibly tow the vehicle behind a motorhome with the front wheels off the ground using a tow dolly as long as the weight of the vehicle doesn't exceed the capacity of the tow dolly.

Dodge/Chrysler, Honda, Kia, Toyota, Mazda and Nissan all produce minivans, most of which weigh about 4500 lbs with the smaller Mazda 5 being about 1000 lbs less. The Demco Kar Kaddy, part # DM9713045 is foldable so it takes up less storage space and provides disc brakes for superior stopping power. The tow dolly has a 4800 lb capacity, so you'll want to be sure that the minivan you choose is lighter than that. Typically an entry-level trim level with the smallest available engine will be the lightest.

As far as which particular make/model to choose, that would be a matter of personal preference. If I had to choose a minivan, I'd choose the Honda Odyssey because of its build quality and reliability. The smaller Mazda 5 would be the runner-up.

I've linked to a demonstration video for the tow dolly I recommended.

expert reply by: Mike L

Debi

8/13/2024

What older models of vans can be flat towed?

Mike L.

8/21/2024

@Debi Nothing comes to mind. A front wheel drive vehicle can't be flat towed with all 4 wheels on the ground, it'll need to be dolly towed. Many older rear wheel drive vehicles can't be flat towed because the transmission won't get lubrication while being towed in neutral, and they'll get damaged. A four wheel drive vehicle that has a two speed transfer case or a vehicle with a manual transmission can usually be flat towed. Without knowing the specific vehicle you have in mind, I really couldn't go into more detail than that. If you can tell me which specific vehicles you're looking at, I'd be happy to check to see if they can be towed.