Can 2017 Chevy Sonic Hatchback LT/RS be Flat Towed

Published 03/22/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster FuseMaster Fuse Bypass Switch for Towed Vehicles - 20-Amp ATM Mini-Fuse

(358)

$75.10

Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(422)

$1454.56

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

(3249)

$182.44

Roadmaster Tow Dolly with Electric Brakes - 4,250 lbs

(9)

$3525.00

Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(3377)

$670.00

Roadmaster Nighthawk All-Terrain Tow Bar w/ LED Lights - Non-Binding - RV Mount - 8,000 lbs

(804)

$1545.00

Question:

I have a 2017 sonic Hatchback LT / RS with a 1.8 engine and automatic trans. because it has the rs logo and dressing package everyone says this can not be dinghy towed. Problem is Chevy says it is the engine and transmission that determines this,,and a 1.8 engine is ok. Can you tell me what do you think?

asked by: Al P

Expert Reply:

We have all the parts needed to flat tow your 2017 Chevy Sonic Hatchback with the 1.8 liter engine and automatic transmission but you'll want to check your owners manual to determine if you can flat tow your vehicle. There will be some fascia trimming though due to the trim of your vehicle. You may find that you can only use a tow dolly like the part # RM-2050-1.

For a base plate kit you'd want the part # RM-523194-5 which is a confirmed fit and will work well. The Nighthawk Tow Bar part # RM-676 that you referenced would be a very good choice too that will work with the base plate kit mentioned.

For lighting you can use the diode kit, # RM-15267, and not have to worry about cutting into the taillight housing. This will splice into your taillight wiring to allow your tow vehicle to control the taillight assemblies of the towed vehicle. This comes with a round 6-way connector that you will install on the front of your towed vehicle and enough coiled wire to go from there to the RV.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking in the vehicle being flat towed. The easiest system to set up and use is the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR, that applies the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.

Most likely you will also need a high low adapter so that the tow bar will be level when you are flat towing. I attached a link to a page that has all of the ones we carry.

I have included a couple of helpful links to our articles on flat towing for you. Be sure to consult the vehicle owners manual for more specific information on flat towing your vehicle.