Does Steering Column of 2018 Ford Explorer XLT Get Locked When Flat Towing?

Updated 10/08/2018 | Published 10/06/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(4916)

$551.93

Blue Ox Alpha Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 8,500 lbs

(479)

$1079.00

Blue Ox Base Plate, Tow Bar Receiver, and High-Low Adapter Lock Kit - Keyed Alike - Qty 4

(186)

$83.90

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

(3397)

$161.90

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

(404)

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

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Question:

Flat towing Does the steering column need to be unlocked while Towing flat a 2018 Ford Explorer XLT

asked by: Cheri W

Expert Reply:

The steering column does need to be unlocked when flat towing a 2018 Ford Explorer XLT. On page 251 of the owners manual the way to ensure it is unlocked is the to turn off the vehicle by turning the ignition key past the accessory position. The key position between the accessory and off position is the correct spot to tow. The battery also gets disconnected for this function.

For your flat towing setup, I recommend the following:

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # BX2668
Blue Ox Alpha Tow Bar # BX7380
Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit # RM-15267
Roadmaster Automatic Battery Disconnect with Switch # RM-766
SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO Supplemental Braking System - Proportional # SM99251

Finally, you will need a high low adapter. I've attached an article and linked the page to your options to fit the measurements needed.

You may also be interested in the Blue Ox Tow Bar Cover # BX8875 and lock kit # BX88177. Let me know if you have any further questions.