Modifications Necessary for Flat Towing 2003 Buick Rendezvous Behind RV

Updated 12/02/2015 | Published 12/01/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Tracker Tow Bar - Coupler Style for 2" Ball - 5,000 lbs

(81)

$335.00

Roadmaster Universal Magnetic Tow Lights with 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector

(44)

$83.50

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

(664)

$69.64

Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo Flat Tow Brake System for RVs w/ Hydraulic Brakes - Proportional

(776)

$1175.00

Question:

Can I flat tow my 2003 Buick rendezvous all wheel drive without tearing anything up

asked by: Chester

Expert Reply:

According to my research, the 2003 Buick Rendezvous cannot be flat towed unless a transmission lube pump has been installed. This would hold true for either the FWD or the AWD model.

We don't carry transmission lube pumps, but you should be able to find one easily by doing a Google search.

The # RM-020 Roadmaster Tracker tow bar you referenced would work, as its 5000 lb capacity is sufficient to tow your Rendezvous. For a base plate, I'd recommend the Roadmaster # 3107-1. This base plate is an XL style plate, which is compatible with the Tracker tow bar. You'll also need a set of safety cables like # RM-643.

You'll also need to wire the Rendezvous for lighting so its taillights are powered by those of the RV. An inexpensive and convenient way to do this would be to use a magnetic mounted tow lamp kit like part # RM-2120. A magnetic mount kit is easy to install and remove quickly and wouldn't require any cutting or splicing into the taillight circuits of the Rendezvous.

Finally, you'll need a supplemental braking system. I like the Stay-IN-Play DUO # SM99251 because of how easy it is to use. It does take more for the initial install but after that all it takes is flipping a switch to activate it and it doesn't need to removed when you want to drive the Buick.

I've linked you to some of our FAQ articles about flat towing, which I hope you'll find helpful.