Why Disconnect Battery to Flat Tow Vehicle Behind Motorhome

Updated 08/13/2025 | Published 06/08/2020

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Question:

2019 Chevy Spark manual transmission. Why do I need to unplug - battery cable when towing behind RV?

asked by: Dave L

Expert Reply:

GM states in the owner's manual that to recreationally tow the vehicle, the negative battery cable must be disconnected. The owner's manual doesn't list a specific reason, it only states that failure to do so could damage the vehicle. The fact that the key needs to be left in the Accessory position while towing so the steering wheel doesn't lock up gives me a pretty good idea that with the key in the ACC position, there must still be an electrical draw on the battery. Disconnecting the battery prevents the battery from going dead while the vehicle's being flat towed.

Roadmaster offers a disconnect with switch, part # RM-766 that lets you easily disable the battery ground circuit without physically needing to disconnect it. It'll also keep the battery charged as you're rolling down the road.

If order to flat tow your Spark, you'll need base plates like # RM-523197-5 for an LS model or # RM-523202-5 for an LT model , a tow bar like the Roadmaster Falcon All Terrain # RM-522, safety cables # RM-643, a wiring solution # RM26FR, a supplemental braking system like # RM-8700 and a # RM-751480 stop light switch kit and possibly a high/low adapter. When installed, the base plates will sit approximately 14 inches above the ground. If your hitch receiver height on the motorhome has more than a 3 inch plus or minus height difference you'll need a high/low adapter to bring it within that range. I'll link you to our adapter selection.

expert reply by: Mike L

Scott

8/6/2025

2025 Chevy suburban towing behind RV. Tires are following but not turning. Steering wheel locked. Already disconnected negative battery. Do you know how to unlock it? TIA

Mike L.

8/13/2025

@Scott Check out the 'Recreational Towing' section of your owner's manual. It'll tell you the full procedure but in a nutshell you'll want to put the ignition in accessory mode by pressing the start button with your foot off the brake before you disconnect the negative battery cable. Make sure you keep the mechanical key on you as the locks won't work with the fob with the battery disconnected.