Does a 2012 Ford Focus Need to be Placed Into Neutral for Flat Towing

Updated 09/21/2018 | Published 09/20/2018

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Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

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Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

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Blue Ox Alpha 2 Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,500 lbs

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Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Way to 6-Way Coiled Adapter Cord

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Roadmaster Battery Disconnect for Towed Vehicle w/ Flat Tow Brake System - Gas Only

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12 Volt Outlet Kit, 20 amps

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Question:

Can I tow my 2012 Ford Focus on a tow bar with the back wheels free and keep the car in the park position? .........or does it have to be in neutral?

asked by: Sue E

Expert Reply:

According to page 258 of the online owner's manual for your 2012 Ford Focus it will need to be in the Neutral position for flat towing. Since you were asking about putting it in park that would indicate you have an automatic transmission. I have taken a screenshot of the manual for you to reference but you should also check your copy of the owner's manual.

For a complete flat towing setup you will need a base plate kit, tow bar, safety cables, vehicle tow bar wiring, a supplemental braking system, and possibly a high-low adapter. If you do not have all of these components then I have some recommendations for you.

The Blue Ox Base Plate Kit # BX2633 pairs really well with the Blue Ox Alpha # BX7380 which also comes with safety cables.

The Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit # RM-15267 is what I recommend installing to activate the lights on your Focus. Since you need to disconnect your battery I recommend installing the Quick Battery Disconnect # RM-766 which allows you to not only quickly disconnect your battery but also charge it while flat towing.

For a braking system the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR is a great option. It is easy to setup and can easily be transferred between vehicles if you ever need to flat tow another vehicle. Because of your battery being disconnected you will need to install the 12 Volt Outlet Kit # RM-9332 to power this unit.

Most flat towing setups require a high-low adapter for the tow bar to remain level while towing. I have linked our selection of adapters for you to check out as well as an article that will help you determine which is the best one for your application.

Be sure to follow any specific instructions in your owner's manual for flat towing.