Does The Negative Battery Cable On a Chevrolet Colorado Need To Be Disconnect While In Tow

Updated 12/31/2025 | Published 02/26/2019

Products Featured in This Question

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

(400)

$205.90

Deka Lead Quick-Disconnect Battery Terminal - Universal Polarity

(34)

$30.15

Question:

Is it necessary to disconnect the neg.

asked by: J.T.

Expert Reply:

According to the owner's manual for a 2015-2019 Chevrolet Colorado, the negative battery cable must be disconnected to prevent damage to the vehicle while in tow. Therefore yes, it will be necessary to remove the negative battery cable while in tow. However, we offer a product that will allow you to disconnect the negative battery cable with the flick of a switch and for that you will want to use the Roadmaster Automatic Battery Disconnect with Switch for Towed Vehicle w/ Supplemental Braking System part # RM-766. There is also a more cost effective option in the Deka Lead Quick-Disconnect Battery Terminal part # DW05312 but this will require you to open the hood and turn the knob on the terminal each time to disconnect the negative battery cable, you just won't need any tools to do so like you would with the factory terminals.

Unfortunately, the manufacturer does not provide an exact reason as to why the negative battery cable must be disconnected but typically it's so the key can be in on position to unlock the steering wheel and not drain battery. Please note that if you have a diesel engine in your Chevrolet Colorado then the Roadmaster Automatic Battery Disconnect with Switch for Towed Vehicle w/ Supplemental Braking System cannot be used so the Deka Lead Quick-Disconnect Battery Terminal would be best. Also, if you have a 2004-2012 Chevrolet Colorado the negative battery cable does not need to be disconnected.

expert reply by: Conner L

Johnny

12/31/2025

Does this apply to a 2023 Colorado as well? jh

Jerred H.

12/31/2025

@Johnny Yes, it does. The 2023 Chevy Colorado does indeed require the Roadmaster Automatic Battery Disconnect with Switch for Towed Vehicle w/ Supplemental Braking System item # RM-766.