Does Battery of 2020 Buick Encore GX Need to be Disconnected to Flat Tow it

Updated 07/14/2021 | Published 07/13/2021

Question:

I will be flat towing a 2020 Buick Encore GX AWD with a Demco Duo braking system. The owners manual says to disconnect the negative battery cable for flat towing. Will it harm anything if I leave the battery connected while towing? I usually drive the car every day at our destination so the battery recharges. Is battery discharge over time the only risk if the battery is left connected? thank you

asked by: Martin H

Expert Reply:

When flat towing any vehicle we have to recommend you stick with what the vehicle manufacturer outlines as the flat towing procedure in the owners manual. In most cases the reason is because the steering wheel has to be unlocked and the only position the steering wheel is unlocked for some vehicles is with the key on which is why then the battery has to be disconnected so it doesn't drain quickly.

You'd have to check with Buick to get that totally verified but if you left the key on for several hours the battery would easily be completely drained and you'd not be able to drive it at all.

expert reply by: Jameson C