What To Know
- Flat towing, also known as “towing behind a motorhome,” involves towing a vehicle behind a larger vehicle with its wheels on the ground.
- If you own a pre-2003 Honda Accord with a manual transmission, here’s how to prepare it for flat towing.
- Flat towing can be a safe and efficient way to transport a vehicle, but it’s important to take the necessary precautions.
Are you planning a cross-country road trip with your Honda Accord? Maybe you’re towing a trailer or RV, and you want to bring your Accord along for the ride. But before you hit the road, you might be wondering: can a Honda Accord be flat towed?
The answer isn‘t a simple yes or no. It depends on the model year and the specific transmission type. This guide dives deep into the specifics of flat towing a Honda Accord, giving you the information you need to make an informed decision.
Understanding Flat Towing
Flat towing, also known as “towing behind a motorhome,” involves towing a vehicle behind a larger vehicle with its wheels on the ground. This method is popular for transporting vehicles during long road trips, as it’s generally more convenient and less expensive than using a car carrier.
Honda Accord Flat Towing Compatibility: A Breakdown
Honda Accords are generally not designed for flat towing. However, there are a few exceptions, depending on the model year and transmission type. Here’s a breakdown:
Accords with Manual Transmissions:
- Pre-2003 Accords with manual transmissions: These models can be flat towed with proper preparation.
- 2003 and newer Accords with manual transmissions: These models generally cannot be flat towed due to potential damage to the transmission.
Accords with Automatic Transmissions:
- All Accords with automatic transmissions: These vehicles are not designed for flat towing and should not be towed in this manner.
Why Can’t Most Honda Accords Be Flat Towed?
The primary reason most Honda Accords cannot be flat towed is due to their automatic transmissions. Automatic transmissions rely on a fluid-based system to engage and disengage gears. When a car is flat towed, the transmission isn’t able to circulate fluid properly, leading to overheating and potential damage.
How to Prepare a Honda Accord for Flat Towing
If you own a pre-2003 Honda Accord with a manual transmission, here’s how to prepare it for flat towing:
1. Engage the parking brake: This will help to prevent the vehicle from rolling while being towed.
2. Shift into neutral: This allows the transmission to rotate freely while being towed.
3. Disengage the driveshaft: This prevents the transmission from turning and helps to reduce wear and tear.
4. Use a tow dolly: This is a specialized trailer designed to support the towed vehicle’s front wheels. It’s essential for flat towing a vehicle with a manual transmission because it allows the wheels to rotate freely.
Alternatives to Flat Towing a Honda Accord
If your Honda Accord isn‘t compatible with flat towing, there are other options available:
- Car carriers: These are specialized trailers designed to transport vehicles. They offer a secure and safe way to transport your car, but they can be more expensive than flat towing.
- Transporting your vehicle by truck: This option is the most expensive but also the safest. It involves hiring a professional trucking company to transport your vehicle to your destination.
Safety Considerations for Flat Towing
Flat towing can be a safe and efficient way to transport a vehicle, but it’s important to take the necessary precautions:
- Use a properly sized tow bar: The tow bar must be rated for the weight of your vehicle.
- Check the tow bar connection: Ensure the tow bar is securely connected to both vehicles.
- Check the tow lights: Make sure the brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights on your towed vehicle are working properly.
- Use a brake controller: This device helps to control the braking of the towed vehicle.
- Drive defensively: Be aware of your surroundings and be prepared to adjust your speed and braking accordingly.
Final Thoughts: Is Flat Towing Right for You?
Deciding whether to flat tow your Honda Accord is a personal choice based on your specific needs and circumstances. If you have a pre-2003 Accord with a manual transmission, flat towing can be a viable option. However, if you have a newer model or an automatic transmission, it’s best to explore alternative methods of transportation.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Can I flat tow a Honda Accord with a CVT transmission?
A: No, Honda Accords with CVT transmissions are not compatible with flat towing.
Q: What are the risks of flat towing a Honda Accord that isn’t designed for it?
A: Flat towing a Honda Accord that isn’t designed for it can cause serious damage to the transmission, leading to costly repairs.
Q: Can I use a tow dolly to flat tow a Honda Accord with an automatic transmission?
A: No, a tow dolly will not prevent transmission damage when flat towing a Honda Accord with an automatic transmission.
Q: What are the benefits of using a car carrier over flat towing?
A: Car carriers offer a more secure and safer way to transport a vehicle, as they protect the vehicle from road debris and weather conditions.
Q: How much does it cost to transport a vehicle on a car carrier?
A: The cost of transporting a vehicle on a car carrier varies depending on the distance, the size of the vehicle, and the carrier company. It’s best to contact several carriers for quotes.
