Base Plate and Tow Bar Recommendation for a 2011 Chevrolet Malibu  

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Expert Reply:

Of the base plate options that fit your 2011 Chevrolet Malibu I recommend the Roadmaster EZ base plate kit because the installation will be a little easier and will not require you to remove and reinstall the headlights. The EZ base plates are compatible with all Roadmaster tow bars. The Falcon 2 Tow Bar, # RM-520, is our most popular Roadmaster tow bar.

Along with a base plate kit and tow bar, you need safety cables, tow bar wiring and a supplemental braking system to complete your flat towing setup. If you go with the Roadmaster base plate kit and tow bar, you will need a set of safety cables as well, # RM-643.

You have a few different options for tow bar wiring. If you will not be towing frequently, then a magnetic light kit like the Standard Magnetic Tow Lights, # RM-2120, work well. If you will be towing frequently, then you may be interested in a more permanent solution like the Hopkins Tail Light Wiring Kit, # HM56106. This kit tees into your tail light wiring and uses your vehicle lights as stop, turn and tail lights when towing. I have attached a link to an FAQ article on tow bar wiring and a link to all of the wiring options that we offer for your vehicle.

Finally, you want to look into a supplemental braking systems. Most states require a braking system when flat towing. For your vehicle, I recommend the Roadmaster InvisiBrake Braking System, # RM-8700. This system only needs to be installed once creating less hassle when you are preparing for a trip. I attached a link to an FAQ article on supplemental braking systems and a link to all of the supplemental braking system options for your vehicle as well.

Along with a supplemental braking system, you will need to install a Stop Light Switch Kit. If your vehicle has non-adjustable pedals, then you want kit # RM-751210-1. If your vehicle has adjustable pedals, then use kit # RM-751210 instead. A stop light switch kit alerts you when the brakes are being applied in the towed vehicle so you can monitor that your braking system is functioning properly.

expert reply by: John H

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