Can 2013 Smart fortwo Automatic Transmission be Flat Towed
Published 03/15/2022
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
Hello,,, wondering if all automatic transmission Smart cars can be towed,,no matter what year they are?
asked by: Ryan M
Helpful Expert Reply:
I pulled up the owners manual of your 2013 Smart fortwo and there is no exclusions for flat towing the automatic transmission models so it would be possible to flat tow yours. I don't have this verified for all years of this vehicle though.
The first thing you need is a base plate kit like the Blue Ox # BX1987 that you referenced.
In addition to the base plates, you will also need a compatible tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking to flat tow your vehicle. One of the most popular compatible tow bars is the Blue Ox Avail # BX7420 which comes with safety cables. The coiled design helps keep the cables off of the ground.
For lighting you can use the diode kit, # RM-15267, and not have to worry about cutting into the taillight housing. This will splice into your taillight wiring to allow your tow vehicle to control the taillight assemblies of the towed vehicle. This comes with a round 6-way connector that you will install on the front of your towed vehicle and enough coiled wire to go from there to the RV.
And finally, 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 # BLU37TR, that applies the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.
Most likely you will also need a high low adapter so that the tow bar will be level when you are flat towing. I attached a link to a page that has all of the ones 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.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Tow Bar Base Plate
- Removable Draw Bars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Completely Hidden
- Blue Ox
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Video: Blue Ox Base Plate Kit Step-By-Step Install - 2014 Smart fortwo
- Shop: Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Shop: Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional
- Shop: Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 4-Way Flat Connectors
- Shop: TowSmart Replacement 7-Pole, RV-Style Trailer Connector Socket - Vehicle End
- Shop: Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Way to 6-Way Coiled Adapter Cord
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Video: An In-Depth Look at the Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Search Results: base plate for tow bar
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Video: An In-Depth Look at the Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Q&A: Which is Better Roadmaster or Blue Ox Tow Bar
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Shop: Curt Powered Tail Light Converter with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Video: Comparing Portable Flat Tow Braking Systems - Curt RVi and Blue Ox Patriot
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Video: Breaking Down the Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Q&A: Recommended Bike Rack and Dual Hitch Adapter for Carrying E-Bikes While Flat Towing
- Video: Firestone Ride-Rite Air Bags with Easy Mount Compressor Feature Breakdown
- Search Results: trailer jack
- Article: 5 Things to Know About Weight Distribution Hitches
- Search Results: tow bar
on Tow Bar Base Plate
