How do I Unlock My Steering Column on Mini Cooper to Flat Tow? What Parts do I Need to Flat Tow?

Updated 09/08/2025 | Published 06/02/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(3503)

$575.00

Demco Air Force One Flat Tow Brake System for RVs w/ Air Brakes - Wireless Monitoring - Proportional

(543)

$1599.00

Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo Braking System for RVs w/ Hydraulic Brakes - Wireless Monitor - Proportional

(801)

$1425.00

etrailer SD Non-Binding Tow Bar for Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plates - RV Mount - 6,000 lbs

(336)

$876.48

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

(3392)

$162.09

Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles

(1331)

$37.25

Roadmaster Stop Light Switch Kit

(671)

$42.66

Question:

2018 Mini Cooper manual Does the steering wheel stay lock when in neutral with the engine off? If so how do I flat two this car?

asked by: Jc V

Expert Reply:

Hello JC,

Here is the information that I found on how to unlock your steering wheel to flat tow your 2018 Mini Cooper:

To flat tow your 2018 Mini Cooper with a manual transmission, unlocking the steering wheel is super easy. Just pop the key into the ignition and turn it to the accessory position—this is usually the first click, where the radio comes on but the engine stays off. If your Mini uses a push-button start, just press the Start/Stop button once without touching the clutch or brake, which does the same thing. This will unlock the steering wheel so it can turn freely while you're towing. Next, make sure the transmission is in neutral and the parking brake is fully released. Give the steering wheel a gentle wiggle to confirm it’s not locked.

Here is a list of parts needed to flat tow your 2018 Mini Cooper:

- Base Plate: Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # RM-521884-5

- Tow Bar: etrailer SD Non-Binding Tow Bar for Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plates - RV Mount - 6,000 lbs # e74ZR

- Wiring: Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Way to 6-Way Coiled Adapter Cord # RM-15267 (if you go to the product page it will say it is not a confirmed fit, I confirmed with Roadmaster this is the correct wiring, I am getting our website updated).

- Braking System: If your coach has hydraulic brakes # DM86VR, if your coach has air brakes # DM26VR

- Charge line kit: Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles # RM-156-25 (this is going to keep you battery charged, very important especially because of how you need to unlock your steering column).

- Stop Light Switch: Your OEM brake line is not usable, so you will need to install the Roadmaster Stop Light Switch Kit # RM-751469

This set-up will get you on the road to adventure. If you have any questions about any of the parts, please ask away! Also, if you are not new to the flat tow world and have Blue Ox tow bars or any other parts you are looking to swap over to this car, let me know what you do have so I can match it up. You only asked about the steering wheel, but I figured I would put a nice package together for you as well.

I attached some review/install videos for you to check out as well.

Are you knew to flat towing, or just getting a different car set-up?

expert reply by: Kate F

Roadmaster Base Plate Being Installed on Mini
(click to enlarge)

Kate F.

9/8/2025

Hey JC, did the steps to unlock the steering wheel and flat tow your Mini Cooper work out for you? I'm curious to know how it went, as it could help others looking to set up their cars for flat towing.