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Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2013 Chevrolet Sonic Sedan Automatic Behind a Motor Home  

Updated 04/08/2013 | Published 04/05/2013



Question:

2013 Chevrolet Sonic sedan 1.4 turbo - automatic transmission Im planning to purchase the above referenced vehicle for dinghy towing behind our Class C Winnebago View. The owners manual implies it can be flat towed like the Sonic 1.8 automatic - the dealer seems to think its OK also but a lot of other dealers said it cant be flat towed - needs a dolly. Im purchasing the vehicle for this purpose so wanted to make sure.

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Expert Reply:

Looking at the owners manual online for the 2013 Chevy Sonic, it looks like as long as you do not have an RS model with automatic transmission it can be flat towed or towed on a dolly. If it is an RS automatic you will need to have it on a trailer with all 4 wheels off the ground.

If it is not an RS automatic then you can flat tow it using the following 5 components: base plates, tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking.

For base plates use # 523173-4. The base plates provide the proper attachment point for the tow bar. I have included a link showing a typical installation for you.

For a tow bar the most popular option is the Falcon 2, # RM-520. If cost is an issue go with the Tracker, # RM-020, and you will need to add Quick Disconnects, # RM-201.

For safety cables for either one of the tow bars listed above, you can used coiled cables # RM-643. The cables will need to criss-cross under the tow bar.

Next, you will need lighting.There are several options available but if you plan on infrequent towing go with a magnetic kit like # RM-2120. If you will be towing often then go with a more permanent option like # TM780098S. Because the vehicle requires fuses be pulled to tow it, see owners manual, it is also recommended to use a fuse bypass, # RM76511.

And finally, most states require a supplemental braking system installed on the vehicle being flat towed. The easiest to set up and use is the Even Brake # RM-9400 proportional system that applies the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the motor home is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.

You will also need a stop light switch kit, # RM-751457, that activates the motor home brake-monitoring system whenever the brake pedal in the towed car is applied. This ensures that the supplemental braking system is functioning properly. And because fuses have to be pulled you will also want to install a 12 volt outlet, # RM-9332.

I have included some helpful links on flat towing for you.

expert reply by:
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Michael H

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