Why Is A Battery Disconnect Needed To Flat Tow A 2022 GMC Canyon
Updated 04/15/2025 | Published 02/22/2023
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
If the steering column in my 2022 GMC Canyon AT4 does not lock when shut off, why would I need a battery disconnect since I will not need to turn my key on to auxiliary mode and therefore not drain my battery?
asked by: Steve
Expert Reply:
The battery disconnection requirement isn't just related to the steering column being unlocked. The steering column needs to remain unlocked so that the front wheels can turn while towing so that you don't just drag the wheels every time you make a turn.
The battery powers multiple components that you wouldn't want powered while flat towing, which is why the manufacturer states "Failure to disconnect the negative battery cable or to have it contact the terminals can cause damage to the vehicle".
If you want to make it as easy as flipping a switch you can use the Roadmaster Automatic Battery Disconnect with Switch for Towed Vehicle w/ Supplemental Braking System # RM-766. If not, you would need to physically remove the negative cable of your vehicle's battery to prevent damage to your Canyon.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Tow Bar Base Plate
- Removable Draw Bars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Partially Hidden
- Roadmaster
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Base Plate for Tow Bar
- Shop: Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Search Results: rock tamers mud flaps
- Search Results: guardian rock shield
- Search Results: roadmaster mud flaps
- Search Results: roadmaster nighthawk cover
- Q&A: Recommended Supplemental Braking System for a 2022 GMC Canyon that Works w/ Disconnected Battery
- Shop: etrailer Invisible Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Search Results: hitch covers
- Search Results: tow bar covers
- Shop: Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Shop: Vehicle Tow Bar Wiring
- Shop: Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles
- Search Results: trailer safety chains
- Q&A: Recommended Flat Towing Parts for a 2024 GMC Canyon Denali
- Q&A: Why Do I Need To Disconnect My Battery When Flat Towing A 2024 GMC Canyon
- Shop: Roadmaster Battery Disconnect for Towed Vehicle w/ Flat Tow Brake System - Gas Only
- Shop: Towed Vehicle Battery Charge Line Kit for Demco Air Force One and Stay-IN-Play Duo Braking Systems
- Shop: BAKFlip G2 Hard Tonneau Cover - Folding - Aluminum
- Shop: Tonneau Cover
- Shop: Vehicle Tow Bar Brake System
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Q&A: Parts Needed To Flat Tow A 2024 GMC Canyon Denali With A 2024 Dynaquest XL With Air Brakes
- Video: All About the Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Motorhomes
- Video: 2018 GMC Acadia Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles: Complete Installation
- Video: Roadmaster Automatic Battery Disconnect Installation - 2022 Chevrolet Colorado
- Video: etrailer/Demco Invisible Base Plates Attachment Tabs Replacement Review
- Video: Mount: Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles on a 2022 Chevrolet Colorado
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Video: An In-Depth Look at the Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit
on Tow Bar Base Plate
Gordon B.
4/15/2025
Kevin, like Steve asked, why would you have to leave the ignition key on if the 22 Canyon does not have a steering wheel lock? Thanks Gordon.