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  1. Tow Bar Base Plate
  2. Blue Ox
  3. Removable Draw Bars
  4. Twist Lock Attachment
  5. Completely Hidden
THIS ITEM IS NOT A FIT FOR
2025 Ford Mustang
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Blue Ox

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

Part Number: BX1312
In Stock
$495.38
Retail:$639.00
You Save: $143.62
Tow Bar Base Plate
Not Confirmed to Fit

2025 Ford Mustang

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Custom designed to fit your vehicle so it can be safely towed behind your RV, this base plate has easily removable arms that offer a seamless look when you're not flat towing. Base plate bolts directly to your chassis, so no welding is required. Great Prices for the best tow bar base plate from Blue Ox. Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms part number BX1312 can be ordered online at etrailer.com or call 1-800-940-8924 for expert service.
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  • Reviews (5139)
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Blue Ox Tow Bar Base Plate - BX1312

Highlights

  • Custom Fit for Your Vehicle: Mounts to existing attachment points
  • Ready for Flat Towing: Provides secure points to connect your tow bar for safe RV towing.
  • Blends In When Not Towing: Hidden design with twist-off arms keeps the front end clean and seamless.
  • Quick Hookup and Removal: Twist-lock arms insert and release easily for fast setup and disconnect.
  • Built to Last: Powder-coated steel resists rust and corrosion for long-term durability.
  • Even Pull on the Frame: Bracket design spreads towing force evenly to protect suspension components.
Made in USA

Features to know about

Built for a Clean Front End: Hidden Base Plate with Removable Arms

When you’re not towing, this setup keeps your vehicle looking like it just rolled off the lot. The completely hidden design means no bulky brackets or crossbars hanging out up front. The removable draw bars twist out in seconds, and the included receiver covers close off the openings to keep out dirt and moisture while giving the bumper a finished look. It’s a tidy solution that doesn’t get in your way when walking by.

Blue Ox base plate kit with removable arms attached to the front of a vehicle, showing hidden installation design for flat towing

Blue Ox base plate kit shown with removable arms detached, highlighting hidden receivers for a clean front-end look

Blue Ox base plate kit with attached removable arms on vehicle front demonstrating clean hidden installation design

Vehicle equipped with Blue Ox base plate kit showing hidden receiver mounts after removing detachable arms for storage or daily use

Quick Hookups Every Time: Twist-Lock, Pin-Secure Arms

Connecting your tow bar doesn’t have to be a chore. Each arm slides into its receiver, twists to lock, and secures with a simple pin. When you’re done towing, just pull the pin, give the arm a twist, and remove it—no tools, no fuss. This straightforward system makes it easy to hitch up solo whether you’re at home or setting up at a campsite.

Close-up of Blue Ox base plate twist-lock attachment mechanism showing how removable arms connect securely for flat towing

Close-up view of Blue Ox twist-lock mechanism illustrating simple attachment process for removable towing arms

Strong Where It Counts: Bolts to the Chassis with No Welding

This base plate bolts directly to your vehicle’s chassis for solid strength without any welding. Its sturdy design spreads towing forces evenly to help reduce stress on your suspension. With durable steel construction and a rust-resistant powder coat finish, it’s ready for thousands of miles of towing without worry.

Adaptable Setup: Works with Popular Tow Bars and Accessories

Already have a tow bar? This base plate pairs right up with Blue Ox models for a secure connection using its sturdy lugs, or you can add adapters for Roadmaster (RM-031 or RM-031-5) and Demco (DM9523041) tow bars if needed. Integrated mounting points make it easy to attach an electrical connector plug bracket (sold separately) so your wiring setup stays neat and organized up front.

DIY-Friendly Install: Straightforward Bolt-On Design

If you like tackling projects yourself, this one’s approachable. The kit includes all necessary mounting hardware and doesn’t require welding or major fabrication. Once bolted in place, the base plate aligns precisely so everything fits as it should—distance between brackets is 20" and bracket height is 11". It’s a clean install that sets you up for reliable flat towing down the road.

Specs

Dimensions

  • Distance between brackets: 20"
  • Bracket height: 11"

Diagram showing five essential components for flat towing: tow bar, base plate kit, safety cables, tow bar wiring, and supplemental braking system

Warranty

  • Warranty length: 3-Year warranty

BX1312 Blue Ox Baseplate - Removable Tabs

Installation Details BX1312 Installation instructions

This Product Fits The Following Vehicles




Customer Satisfaction Score:

Ratings & Reviews

4.8

5139 reviews
5 Stars
(4428)
4 Stars
(493)
3 Stars
(103)
2 Stars
(46)
1 Star
(69)
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Custom designed to fit your vehicle so it can be safely towed behind your RV, this base plate has easily removable arms that offer a seamless look when you're not flat towing. Base plate bolts directly to your chassis, so no welding is required.

by:

lways great to shop at etrailer, especially the tech experts. Royce did an awesome job with our order. Everything fit perfectly and the help video provided the guidance I needed.

We installed the baseplate on our 2023 Encore GX AWD as well as the light harness and breakaway switch. A couple of items were incorrect but Royce corrected the issues with no problems.

Thanks again etrailer!



by:

2019 Ford Ranger baseplate worked and fitted fine for me. 73 yrs old took me a couple hours but took many breaks. Younger could do it less than hour I'm sure.
Also works fine with my Blue Ox tow bar.



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Thank you so much. Price was great too.



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Justin was very professional and helpful



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Great to deal with best pricing



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Installation went well and hull my mini all summer



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I’ve made several purchases from this retailer. The quality of their products is top notch and the price is very competitive. EXCELLENT customer service. Stacey assIsted me with my latest order and she was professional, knowledgeable and courteous. It was a joy working with her.



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I appreciate the quick delivery time, ease of use on the website, and installation videos letting me know what I’m in for on this project



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Installation instructions were great



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Great baseplate. Easy to install. I watched the video on YouTube and installed it.



by:

We bought this for our MINI Cooper 4-door hatchback. The instructions were easy to follow with a few minor modifications to the vehicle, which took some time. All-in-all, a great product that is relatively easy to use and hardly noticable when stowed.



by:

Looks great... not installed yet.



by:

Kelly is amazing!! easy to order and answered all of my questions! Highly recommend. Easy to talk to and understanding!!!



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I received all items for installing. As soon as I get time. Well up date all then.



by:

eTrailer was very helpful in choosing the correct hitch for our rv and car. They also provided a special brake application in the car that makes it super easy for toad braking.
I am 72, and I hook up this toad and pull it with confidence. The instructions to hook up the toad was presented with ease. They knew exactly what they were doing, and we didn't rush through the demonstration. I would recommend eTrailer to anyone.

Deborah profile picture

Deborah

4/21/2024

The whole system is working great, and we have not had one issue. Great install and demonstration.

Jerred H. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Jerred H.

5/15/2024

@Deborah That's great! Thanks for the positive feedback!


by:

Box had failed at both flaps but everything was there and fit like a glove!



by:

It took all afternoon to install it by myself, but the online video was perfect and the product fit without an issue. Our second vehicle to use their tow plate and we have been very happy each time!Great product and dealer.



by:

Aaron was a huge help!

Gwendolyn Y. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Gwendolyn Y.

5/2/2025

When it is time to hit the road for your next adventure, Jay? I'll also make sure to give Aaron a high-five from you too!



by:

Arrived is a short time. Just picked up the car from having it installed and will tow it this weekend for a trip! Great quality too!

Kate F. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Kate F.

4/23/2026

Install looks great Jason! Where are you going for your weekend adventure?

Jason profile picture

Jason

4/23/2026

@KateF A wedding in Howie in the Hills Florida
Kate F. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Kate F.

4/23/2026

@Jason Oh nice! Enjoy =)

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See what our Experts say about this Blue Ox Tow Bar Base Plate

  • Flat Towing 2016 Mini Cooper with Manual Transmission
    Generally manual transmission cars are more easily flat towed than automatics. I checked the Mini online owner's manual for information about recreational towing (flat towing) of your 2016 Mini Cooper with manual transmission. On page 217 the online manual indicates the vehicle can be flat towed with a tow bar, but I do suggest you review your manual since the vehicle could be offered in different versions. Your manual will correctly reflect the capabilities of your particular car. You...
    view full answer...
  • Does Blue Ox Base Plate Kit Fit 2018 Mini Cooper S with JCW Trim
    Hey Maark, the Blue Ox base plate kit part # BX1312 does work on the 2018 Mini Cooper S model with the JCW trim like you have. Do you have a tow bar already as well?
    view full answer...
  • Towing 2016 Mini Cooper JCW Hatchback Behind Motorhome
    We've had this question before and the answer is that we don't have a base plate that will fit your JCW model 2016 Mini Cooper due to the intercooler location but we do have a way to tow the vehicle with a tow dolly like the Demco Kar Kaddy SS Tow Dolly with Disc Brakes part # DM9713045. The Kar Kaddy SS is the perfect all in one tow dolly. It has disc brakes for maximum stopping power/reliability, a folding tongue for easy storage, and a wheeled jack to maneuver the dolly around while...
    view full answer...
  • Can Blue Ox Aventa LV Tow Bar be Used With 2019 Mini Cooper S Convertible & Roadmaster Base Plates
    Yes you can use your Blue Ox Aventa LX tow bar BX7445 to flat tow your 2019 Mini Cooper S Convertible. I recommend the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BX1312, however - so long as your Mini does NOT have the R57 LCI with 1.6 engine - you can use the Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit # RM-521882-4. The adapter you need to use your tow bar with this kit is the RoadMaster Base Plate to Blue Ox and Demco Tow Bars Adapter # RM-033. The wiring kit you need for your 2019 Mini Cooper S Convertible...
    view full answer...
  • Flat Tow Set Up For 2019 Mini Cooper Convertible S
    There are few items you are going to need to flat tow your 2019 Mini Cooper behind your 2020 Tiffin Wayfarer. The following is what you will need to set the vehicle up: Blue Ox Base Plate Kit Item # BX1312. This base plate is a custom fit base plate. Steele construction and attaches to the chassis of the vehicle to provide a solid connection point for the tow bar. It is compatible with the Mini Cooper convertible and convertible S. It has removable tabs so the front of the vehicle looks...
    view full answer...
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  • Which Blue Ox Base Plate Kit Fits 2015 Mini Cooper S Convertible Model
    The only Blue Ox base plate kit that fits a 2015 Mini Cooper S Convertible is the part # BX1307. The # BX1312 only fits the hardtop models which have have a different chassis design. Basically the 1307 was made because the convertible models are different.
    view full answer...
  • Why are There Two Blue Ox Base Plate Kit Fits for 2015 Mini Cooper Hardtop Base Model
    So the reason there is two Blue Ox base plate kits that fit your 2015 Mini Cooper Hardtop base model part # BX1312 and # BX1307 is because the 1307 was designed for the older vehicles whereas the 1312 was designed for newer vehicles but it ended up there is a bit of crossover in some models around your year of 2015 since some of the changes were rolling. So they had to come up with a new design for new models but in doing so they found out that there were some older models the new kit fit...
    view full answer...
  • Can a 2017 Mini Clubman JCW Be Flat-Towed
    The John Cooper Works (JCW) edition of the 2017 Mini Clubman came with a turbocharged I4 engine. The turbocharged engine also utilizes an intercooler which brings down air intake temperatures. The placement of the intercooler is the reason the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit part # BX1312 will not work for you as they both occupy the same space. Unfortunately, none of our base plate manufacturers (Roadmaster/Blue-Ox/Demco) make a base plate kit that is compatible with the JCW edition therefore your...
    view full answer...
    Image 1 for
  • Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2015 Mini Cooper with Manual Transmission
    We have everything needed to flat tow your 2015 Mini Cooper with the manual transmission behind an RV. I do just recommend reviewing your owner's manual for any specific guidelines or restrictions when it comes to towing the vehicle with all 4 wheels on the ground. In order to flat tow your Mini Cooper, you will need a base plate kit, a tow bar, safety cables, a lighting solution, and a supplemental braking system. If you have the Hardtop 2-Door/4-Door base or S model Mini Cooper, I recommend...
    view full answer...
  • Can a 2017 MINI Cooper Hatchback be Flat Towed
    According to my research you should be able to flat tow your 2017 Mini Cooper as long as it has a manual transmission. If it has an automatic transmission then you will need to use a tow dolly instead. I wasn't able to locate anything in the online owner's manual about flat towing so you will want to verify this in your copy of the owner's manual or by contacting your local MINI dealer. I recommend using the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BX1312 as it is confirmed to fit all of the base and...
    view full answer...
    Image 1 for
  • Can A 2019 Mini Countryman Be Flat Towed?
    The Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BX1312 that you mentioned is actually meant to fit the: - 2016 - 2020 Mini Cooper Convertible - S models - 2015 - 2021 Mini Cooper Hardtop - S models. I did go ahead and check the owner's manual, and it appears that there was a new "Intelligent Safety System" that was added, which is why it isn't recommended to flat tow the vehicle as it could damage the system. So, if you have the ALL4, then it must be transported by flatbed truck only. If you have the...
    view full answer...
  • How to Unlock Steering Wheel of Keyless Ignition Vehicle When Flat Towing
    For vehicles with keyless ignitions the trick to getting the steering wheel to unlock without turning the car on is to press the start button without having your foot on the brake and it should move the "key" to the ACC position which will unlock the wheel like you'd need.
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2016 Mini Cooper w/ Manual Transmission & All-Wheel Drive
    So long as you have the manual transmission on your 2016 Mini Cooper, flat towing is possible with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. There are a number of parts you will need in order to flat tow your Mini, which I'll list out for you: - Base Plate Kit: Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BX1312 - Tow Bar: Curt Rambler Steel Tow Bar for Curt and Blue Ox Base Plates # C26FR - Wiring Kit: Roadmaster Universal Hy-Power Diode Wiring Kit # RM-154 - Supplemental Braking System: Demco SBS Stay-IN-Play...
    view full answer...
  • Complete Flat Towing Setup for a 2016 Mini Cooper S
    Hey Mike, you're going to want to use the Roadmaster Tow Defender Protective Screen for Towed Vehicles # RM-4750 since # BX1312 is a direct connect base plate which means you'd use a direct connect tow bar like the Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar for Blue Ox Base Plates # RM-525. But, If you have a crossbar style tow bar that uses quick connects then you'd need # RM-4700. If you're needing to complete your setup then you're also going to need a braking system, like the Blue Ox Patriot Portable...
    view full answer...
  • Can 2019 Mini Countryman JCW be Flat Towed
    The Blue Ox base plate kit you mentioned only fits the Mini Coopers and not the Countryman. Only option for your 2019 Mini Countryman JCW would be a tow dolly like the Demco Kar Kaddy SS part # DM9713045.
    view full answer...
  • Should The Steering Be Locked When Flat Towing A Keyless Car
    Since you're looking at the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BX1312 I assume you're trying to flat tow your vehicle. If this is the case then you would not want to lock the steering wheel up under any circumstance. Locking the wheel will prevent the front wheels from turning with the motorhome as you make turns and will just drag the car and ruin your wheels. Every vehicle that can be flat towed has a list of instructions in the owner's manual that will set the vehicle into neutral to prevent damage....
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2016 Mini Cooper Hardtop Behind a Motor Home
    To flat tow your 2016 Mini Cooper hard top you will need base plates, a tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking. For base plates you can use Blue Ox model # BX1312. These base plates will also fit S models but will not fit John Cooper Works models. For a compatible tow bar I recommend the Alpha, # BX7380. This tow bar is rated for up to 6,500 pounds and includes safety cables. For a lighting solution you can use a simple magnetic kit such as # RM-2120. I also recommend...
    view full answer...
  • Unlocking Steering Wheel of 2018 Mini Countryman to Tow on Tow Dolly
    I looked up the owners manual of your 2018 Mini Countryman and they don't specify exactly what is needed to do when towing on a dolly like the # RM-2050-1 but to unlock the steering wheel you'll need to put the ignition in the ACC mode. If you have a push button ignition to do that you'd need to press the start button with your foot not touching the brake pedal.
    view full answer...
  • Is There A Flat Towing Solution For A 2019 Mini Countryman?
    Yes the Blue Ox Acclaim Non-Binding Tow Bar # BX4330 does in fact fit the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BX1312, and would work just fine with a vehicle weighing 3,400lbs, however the base plate # BX1312 you mentioned is only designed to fit the: -2016 - 2020 Mini Cooper Convertible - S models, & - 2015 - 2021 Mini Cooper Hardtop - S models. If you have a 2019 Mini Countryman, then you actually aren't going to be able to flat tow your vehicle, and will only be able to flatbed transport. Or...
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Supplemental Braking System for a 2019 Mini Cooper
    The top of the line and by far the best supplemental braking system is going to be the Demco SBS Stay-IN-Play DUO Supplemental Braking System item # SM99251. This is a proportional braking system which is permanently installed. The Stay-IN-Play uses an inertia sensor to detect when you decelerate which in turn will activate your Mini's brakes. This system is made in the USA and comes with a 5 year warranty. I've added links to a couple of video reviews for you to take a look at. Some...
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2019 Mini Cooper 4 Door Hardtop with Manual Transmission
    Yes, the Blue Ox base plate kit part # BX1312 is the correct base plate kit you need for your 2019 Mini Cooper 4 door, hardtop, base model with a manual transmission. 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 Blue Ox Alpha part # BX7420 which is one of the easiest to use and most reliable tow bars available and it comes safety cables. For...
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2016 Mini Cooper
    As long as your 2016 Mini Cooper is a hardtop base or S model the recommended base plate kit is the part # BX1312. 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 Blue Ox Alpha part # BX7380 that comes with safety cables. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground. For lighting you can use the bulb and socket kit, # RM-154, and...
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2019 Mini Cooper Manual Transmission
    You'll need a few things to flat tow your 2018 Mini Cooper with a manual transmission but the first thing you'll need is a base plate kit like the Blue Ox part # BX1312. This attaches to the frame of your vehicle and gives you an attachment point for a tow bar. The Blue Ox part # BX7380 would then be a great solution for a tow bar as it is very easy to use. The non-binding arms make it very easy to connect and disconnect. For lighting/safety cables, locks, and covers for the tow bar we...
    view full answer...
  • Blue Ox Base Plate Kit that Fits 2021 Mini Cooper S
    The Blue Ox base plate kit part # BX1312 does fit your 2021 Mini Cooper S model as we have confirmed this with Blue Ox. 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...
    view full answer...


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Info for this part was:

Employee Lindsey S
Edited by:
Lindsey S
Employee Michael H
Expert Research:
Michael H
Employee Jameson C
Expert Research:
Jameson C
Employee Adam R
Expert Research:
Adam R
Employee Jacob T
Video Edited:
Jacob T
Employee Shelly K
Written by:
Shelly K
Employee Wilson B
Updated by:
Wilson B
Employee Mike S
Updated by:
Mike S
Employee Manda E
Updated by:
Manda E
Employee Carrie F
Updated by:
Carrie F
Employee David F
Test Fit:
David F

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