Why Do You Need To Disconnect The Battery In A 2021 Chevy Tahoe In Order To Flat Tow

Updated 11/28/2023 | Published 11/27/2023

Products Featured in This Question

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

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$589.86

Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(488)

$1406.81

Roadmaster Battery Disconnect for Towed Vehicle w/ Flat Tow Brake System - Gas Only

(404)

$201.90

12 Volt Outlet Kit, 20 amps

(370)

$36.85

Question:

I have a 2021 Chevy Tahoe z71 that I am trying to set up for flat tow. I have the base plate and tow bar and everything. I am confused how putting the key in accessory mode and then disconnecting the battery does anything or why it is needed? Please shed some light on this if you can. Also if I disconnect the battery to tow the vehicle how do I get power to my blue ox supplemental breaking system? Thanks for your help

asked by: Roger K

Expert Reply:

The manufacturer requires you to place the ignition in accessory mode and disconnect the battery to prevent the steering wheel from locking and dragging your wheels every time you turn and from turning on specific systems in the vehicle that could end up being damaged. As vehicle technology advances there's a lot more that has to be disabled in order to flat tow a vehicle. To make disconnecting and reconnecting the battery easy you can install the Roadmaster Battery Disconnect # RM-766.

Even if you didn't disconnect the battery the 12v outlet in your Tahoe is likely only powered when the ignition is in run mode so you would need to run a separate 12v outlet # RM-9332 directly to the battery in order to power your Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR.

expert reply by: Kevin C