Flat Towing a 2021 Buick Encore GX
Updated 01/30/2026 | Published 01/26/2026
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Question:
I’m looking at purchasing a 2021 Buick Encore gx awd. The owner towed with a diesel unit and used air brakes. The Entegtra I brought is gas. How much change over is there to make this work. Do o just need to add a brake controller to the Entegra?
asked by: Jeff M
Expert Reply:
Hey Jeff,
A new vehicle, that’s exciting! I’ve heard good things about the newer Encore, so I hope you end up liking it. To flat tow any vehicle behind your motorhome, you’ll need base plates, a tow bar, safety cables, tow bar wiring, and a braking system like the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR. I attached an article that walks through the must-have flat towing components. Do you know if yours has the Sport Touring package?
I also included a link to our dealer locator so you can find an installer near you. I wasn’t sure if you were planning to handle the install yourself or have it done professionally. If you haven’t done one before, it can take a long time.
You mentioned the previous owner used air brakes to flat tow. Do you know which braking system they had installed in the Encore? Will you be getting that system with the vehicle, or are you planning to purchase a new one?
Let me know what you find out, and I’m happy to help you narrow things down.
Chris M.
1/30/2026
I have an Entegra 31 ft gas mh. Tow a 2023 2 dr Jeep and use the Blue ox Patriot brake assist. Only thing I needed to add to the Jeep was a 12 volt power supply that is always powered for the portable brake unit. Set the remote brake assist at power force level 4. Works nice, takes less than 45 seconds to install and plug in. I’m really happy with it. No cutting into the power brake system.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional
- Flat Tow Brake System
- Brake Systems
- Proportional System
- Every-Trip Setup
- Built-In Battery
- Portable System
- Power Assist Brake Compatible
- Air Brakes
- Air Over Hydraulic Brakes
- Hydraulic Brakes
- Wireless Display
- Blue Ox
more information >
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on Flat Tow Brake System
Dana M.
1/30/2026
I purchased the Patriot brake system a couple years ago. It is fairly easy to install and works well. The hardest part of the install is getting constant power wired to the unit location area. One adjustment you need to pay attention to is the seat adjustment in relationship to the Patriot unit. the seat adjustment can't be too tight or too loose. If it's too tight the unit wont auto adjust correctly, and if it's too loose, it could bounce out of position and possibly not work if it is not secure against the seat base. Dana M.