Parts Needed to Tow 2016 Kia Soul with Manual Transmission

Updated 09/19/2017 | Published 09/18/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(2125)

$575.00

Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(396)

$1482.94

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

(401)

$850.00

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

(653)

$71.02

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

(200)

$61.88

Question:

Can you tow a Kia Soul behind a big truck with a flat tow plate.The dealer says no. If that is so why do they make a flat Towing system for the 2016 Soul?

asked by: Charlie S

Expert Reply:

Based on my research, certain models of the Kia Soul that have a manual transmission can be flat towed behind a motorhome (all four wheels on the ground). The Kia Soul with automatic transmission cannot be flat towed in this same manner. Before proceeding, I strongly recommend checking the owner's manual for your vehicle, as restrictions and guidelines can vary between models.

If your Kia Soul does have a manual transmission, you will need a base plate kit, tow bar, safety cable set, lighting solution and a supplemental braking system to complete your flat towing setup.

Starting with the base plate kit, I recommend the Roadmaster EZ4 Base Plate Kit # RM-522114-4. This is confirmed to fit this vehicle and features a hidden bracket design for a nice clean look when compared to standard brackets. These will install on your Kia Soul's frame to provide an attachment point for the tow bar.

For a tow bar, I recommend the Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar # RM-520. This heavy-duty unit has a weight capacity of 6,000 pounds and is compatible with the above mentioned base plate kit. I recommend adding the RoadMaster Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables # RM-643 to add the necessary security to your system.

Then for a lighting solution, I recommend looking at the Optronics Heavy Duty Magnetic Tow Lights # TL21RK. These will give your Kia Soul the necessary stop, turn, and tail lights for flat towing without having to splice into its wiring.

For a braking system, I highly recommend the Blue Ox Patriot Portable Braking System # BLU37TR. This is a great, proportional system that will physically press the brake pedal in your Soul at the same time and with the same intensity that you apply to it in your tow vehicle.

Lastly, you will likely need a high-low adapter in order to keep your tow bar level. I have attached an article that explains how to choose the correct adapter, along with a link that will take you to our available selection. I have also attached video demonstrations on the products mentioned and an article on flat towing that you might find helpful.