Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2011 Mini Cooper Behind a Motor Home

Published 05/22/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(4462)

$525.25

Roadmaster 6-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles with Separate Lighting

(60)

$184.81

Blue Ox Alpha 2 Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,500 lbs

(437)

$903.64

Roadmaster Universal Magnetic Tow Lights with 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector

(43)

$82.67

Roadmaster Stop Light Switch Kit - Mini Cooper

(601)

$43.40

12 Volt Outlet Kit, 20 amps

(319)

$34.53

Roadmaster Even Brake Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(56)

$1930.00

Question:

I have a 2011 Mini Cooper hardtop. A BX1307 base plate fits, and rear light wiring is a necessary addition for installation. Also, I wish to use an existing brake system from previous 2002 Mini. I would be grateful if you could provide price for BX1307 and rear light wiring kit along with directions for installation. I believe my existing brake system US Gear D-Celerator can be used. Thanks.

asked by: Tom R

Expert Reply:

The Blue Ox base plates # BX1307 are indeed a fit for your 2011 Mini Cooper. In addition to the base plates you will also need a compatible tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and supplemental braking, which you have mentioned. I have linked the installation instructions for you.

For a compatible tow bar the most popular option is the Alpha, # BX7380. This tow bar also includes safety cables so you would not need to get additional cables if you choose this tow bar.

For lighting, if you will not be towing the Mini often, you can use a magnetic light kit, # RM-2120. For a more permanent solution you can use diode kit # 154-792-118158. I have linked the instructions for the diode kit for you.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking on the vehicle being flat towed. I looked up the braking system you mentioned but I do not know how it would work with the rest of the flat towing components. I do recommend going with a braking system that we know will work.

One of the easiest systems to set up and use is the Even Brake proportional system # RM-9400. It will apply the Mini brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the easiest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.

You will also need stop light switch kit # RM-751440 so you know the Mini brake pedal is actually moving, and outlet kit # RM-9332 is also recommended. The outlet kit is normally recommended if the normal power outlet is not active when the key on the vehicle is placed in the correct position for flat towing.

Be sure to consult your Mini owners manual for specific information on flat towing the vehicle. I have also included some helpful links to our series of help articles on flat towing for you. Current pricing can be seen on each product page and on the parts links below.