How to Prevent Steering Wheel From Locking Up When Flat Towing 2017 Chevy Sonic

Updated 11/06/2017 | Published 11/04/2017

Question:

2017 chevrolet Sonic Dingy towing How do i keep the steering from locking up when dingy towing and vehicle has remote start.

asked by: Edward T

Expert Reply:

In order to prevent the steering wheel in your 2017 Chevy Sonic from locking up when flat towing it behind your RV, you will just need to make sure to follow the steps in the vehicle's owner's manual, specifically the proper key position. I took a look at the online copy of your Sonic's owner's manual and it lists these steps to take before flat towing the vehicle:

1) Shift the automatic transmission to P (Park) or a manual transmission into 1 (First) gear, then turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.

2) Set the parking brake.

3) To prevent the battery from draining while the vehicle is being towed, remove the DLIS fuse from the instrument panel fuse block.

4) Turn the ignition to ACC/ACCESSORY

5) Shift an automatic transmission to N (Neutral) or a manual transmission to Neatral.

6) Release the parking brake.

Following test steps will prevent the steering wheel from locking up, as you will certainly want to keep it in the unlocked position for turning purposes when flat towing. I also recommend verifying this information in your copy of the owner's manual, as it's possible you have a slightly different model vehicle.

In order to flat tow your Chevy Sonic, you will need a base plate kit, tow bar with safety cables, a lighting solution, and a supplemental braking system. If you still need to obtain these parts, please let me know and I will be happy to make recommendations. I have also attached an article on flat towing that you might find helpful.