Flat Towing

Updated 04/23/2021 | Published 04/22/2021

Question:

I found when pulling my Jeep Liberty 4 wheels down, contrary to what was said by one of the pros, the odometer did not change, even when driving 6,000 miles around the country. I wonder if that would be the case with my Lincoln MKT? Also, is there a disconnect for the Lincoln battery - the instructions say it needs to be disconnected. Paul

asked by: Paul P

Expert Reply:

Vehicles with a digital odometer will not keep track of mileage when flat towing. Older model vehicles with mechanical odometers run off of gears so even when there's no power it'll still track mileage unlike the digital odometers that when the power is cut will not work.

You'll want to follow exactly what your owner's manual says for Recreational/Flat Towing to avoid damaging your vehicle. I've attached a pic of a generic 2014 Lincoln manual but you'll want to see what your specific model says about flat towing as different models can or can't be flat towed or dolly towed.

Most vehicle's require you to remove the negative cable from your battery but when flat towing you'll normally need the battery to power your brake controller so I recommend the BrakeBuddy Towed Vehicle Battery Charge Kit
Item # BB54FR so you can keep your battery charged while towing.

If you could send me more info about your 2014 Lincoln MKT and what Tow Bar you were using I can find the matching baseplates for your vehicle and the tow bar and any other parts you'll need like the braking system, safety cables, and tow bar wiring.

expert reply by: Kevin C