Can I Flat Tow 2013 Volkswagen Beetle

Updated 01/19/2022 | Published 01/18/2022

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(2167)

$575.00

Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(480)

$1659.71

Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Way to 6-Way Coiled Adapter Cord

(3389)

$162.09

Roadmaster Falcon 2 Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,000 lbs

(415)

$850.00

RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables - 6,000 lbs

(669)

$62.56

Question:

What is the difference between the 2.0 and 2.5 engines that makes the 2.0 not towable? I am considering buying a 2013 Beetle with a 2.0T Si Turbo Charged???

asked by: Robert M

Expert Reply:

You will need to contact a Volkswagen dealer to explain the mechanics of why, we go by the recommendations of the manufacturer as they have designed and built the vehicles. We consider them the final authority of what their products are capable of. Generally speaking it is due to the transmission and final drive components that allow/prevent one engine option as opposed to another.

For the 2013 model year Volkswagen Beetle, the 2.0 liter engine is not recommended by VW so you will not be able to flat tow that particular model. However, the 2.5 liter is okay, consult the vehicle specific owners manual to ensure. If you are wanting to buy a VW Bug from that era to flat tow, you will need the following:

For a base plate kit, I suggest the Roadmaster, # RM-521237-1.

For a tow bar, the Falcon 2, # RM-520.

For needed safety cables, # RM-643.

For lighting I suggest the Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit, # RM-15267.

Most states now require supplemental braking in the vehicle being flat towed. The easiest system to set up and use is the Blue Ox Patriot Portable Braking System, # BLU37TR.

For most situations a high low adapter is needed that the tow bar will be level when flat towing. Please note the link to a page that has all of the options we carry.

I have included a couple of helpful links to our articles on flat towing for you. Be sure to consult the vehicle owners manual for more specific information on flat towing your vehicle.