by Quadratec
According to the Jeep manual:
If you’re moving a Jeep by recreational towing, such as behind a motorhome, the vehicle must have all four wheels in contact with the pavement. This is because internal damage to the transfer case can occur when towing recreationally with a front or rear wheel lift.
Flat Towing a Jeep Wrangler Behind an RV
First, the Jeep transfer case must be shifted into NEUTRAL. Here's how you can do that before you learn how to flat tow a Jeep Wrangler:
Note: The key must be in the "accessory" position:
- Depress and hold the brake pedal
- Set Parking Brake
- Shift your Jeep automatic transmission into NEUTRAL (N) or depress the clutch pedal on a manual transmission
- Shift the transfer case level into NEUTRAL (N)
- Start the engine
- Shift the automatic transmission into DRIVE (D) or the manual transmission into gear
- Release the brake pedal and ensure that there is no vehicle movement
- IMPORTANT: Shut the engine off and place the ignition key into the unlocked OFF position
- Shift the automatic transmission into PARK (P)
- Apply the parking brake
- Attach the Jeep to the tow vehicle with a tow bar
- Release the parking brake
Note: If you’ve just learned how to flat-tow a Jeep Wrangler, remember that damage to the transmission may occur if the transmission is shifted into PARK (P) with the transfer case in NEUTRAL (N) and the engine running.
Note: Do not use a bumper-mounted clamp-on tow bar on the Jeep Wrangler or Wrangler Unlimited JK. The bumper face bar can be damaged. You can shop all the bumpers we sell here.
How To Shift Out Of Neutral On A Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
This is the easy part of flat-towing a Jeep Wrangler. Once you reach your destination, you will want to unhook the Jeep from the tow vehicle. If you’re figuring out how to flat tow a Jeep Wrangler, keep these steps in mind:
- Shift the automatic transmission into NEUTRAL (N) or depress the clutch pedal on a manual transmission
- Shift the transfer case lever into the desired position (2-Hi, 4-Hi, or 4-Lo)
- Shift the automatic transmission into DRIVE (D) or release the clutch on a manual transmission
Note: It may be easier to shift the transfer case into position if you start the Jeep engine first.
From the Jeep manual:
The transfer case NEUTRAL (N) position disengages both the front and rear driveshafts from the powertrain and allows the vehicle to move regardless of the transmission position. The parking brake should always be applied when the driver is not in the vehicle.
Ride Easier with Quadratec
Whether you’re learning how to flat-tow a Jeep Wrangler at our Torque Jeep blog or ordering the most durable Jeep hitches from top brands, Quadratec is your one-stop destination. Order from trusted experts today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Jeep Wrangler be flat-towed with all four wheels on the ground?
Yes. Flat towing a Jeep Wrangler (aka dinghy towing) with all four wheels down is the standard way to tow a Wrangler behind a motorhome.
Does a Jeep Wrangler need a special tow bar for flat towing?
You’ll need a tow bar rated for towing along with a base plate kit bolted to the frame. You may want to skip a bumper-mounted clamp-style tow bar, since the factory bumper face isn’t built for that load.
What happens if the transfer case isn’t shifted into neutral before towing?
This is a crucial part of learning how to flat-tow a Jeep Wrangler. Towing without the case fully in neutral can cause damaging wear through the transfer case and transmission, since components keep turning without proper lubrication. This is one of the most common and priciest mistakes a Jeep owner can make when rushing the hookup.
Can an automatic Wrangler be flat-towed the same way as a manual?
Both can be flat-towed, though the shift sequence to reach neutral will differ slightly. Automatics pass through drive before parking, while manuals just need the clutch depressed with the transmission left in gear. Pay special attention to these details when flat-towing a Jeep Wrangler.
Do you need supplemental brakes to flat tow a Jeep Wrangler?
Some states do require a supplemental braking system past a certain weight to flat tow a Jeep Wrangler. Check local towing laws first before going ahead.
