What Parts are Needed to Flat Tow a 2012 Ford Focus

Published 11/07/2011

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(2137)

$575.00

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

(3249)

$182.44

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

(407)

$850.00

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

(660)

$69.89

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

(767)

$1175.00

Question:

Could you give me a list of all I need to flat tow this car, 2012 Ford Focus SE model Also do you know when you flat tow does it put mileage on the car odometer. This is my first time thinking of flat towing, advantage over tow dolly? always towed trailer with motorcycle. Do I need brake controller? Car weight about 2750 lbs. Thanks for your help

asked by: Ron F

Expert Reply:

The Roadmaster Base Plates, # RM-524430-4, are a fit for the 2012 Ford Focus SE. Although, if the vehicle has the adaptive cruise control feature, it cannot be flat towed. Adaptive cruise control uses a forward facing radar that detects other vehicles in front of the vehicle and adjusts the speed accordingly.

You will also want to consult the vehicle owners manual on how the vehicle should be towed. Some vehicles will accrue mileage when flat towed, others will not. More often than not, the odometer will roll. Your local Ford dealer would probably have that information.

One advantage of flat towing is that you do not have a separate device that needs to be stored and licensed. You also would not have to worry about availability at a rental place or if they had one that fit your vehicle. That is if it can be placed on a dolly. Many dollies do not have braking which puts a lot of stress on the towing vehicle.

In addition to the base plates, you need a compatible tow bar. The most popular is the Falcon 2, # RM-520. I have included a link to the installation details and a link to a video review of the tow bar for you. You will also need safety cables, # RM-643. The coiled design helps keeps the cables off of the ground.

Next, you will need a lighting solution. You can use the Roadmaster diode kit, # RM-15267, which includes everything you need including the cord to connect to the motorhome.

Most states now require a supplemental braking system on the vehicle being flat towed. So you would not use a traditional brake controller, but a system specifically designed for flat towing. One of the easiest systems to use is the Stay-IN-Play DUO, # SM99251. Once it's installed you just flip a switch to get your Focus ready to tow.

I have included a link to our series of FAQ articles on flat towing for you to review.