Can A Jeep Patriot Be Flat Towed? Primarily Three Ways In 2023
Flat-towing a Jeep Patriot can be a convenient way to transport the vehicle, but it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure a safe experience.
Consult the manufacturer’s recommendations and guidelines for the specific make and model of the Patriot to determine the proper flat-towing method and any necessary preparations.
This article will provide an overview of the options available for flat-towing a Jeep Patriot, including four-down towing, two-wheel towing, and four-wheels-on-the-ground towing, as well as the equipment and professional assistance required for a successful flat-towing experience.
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Is It Safe For A Jeep Patriot To Be Flat Towed?
Flat-towing a Jeep Patriot can be a safe and convenient way to transport the vehicle, but it’s important to take the proper steps to ensure a safe experience.
Before flat-towing a Jeep Patriot, it is important to consult the manufacturer’s recommendations and guidelines for the specific make and model of the vehicle.
This will provide important information on the correct method for flat-towing as well as any preparations that may be required.
There Are Primarily Three Ways To Flat-Tow A Jeep Patriot, Which Are As Follows:
1. Four-Down Towing:
Towing the Patriot behind a recreational vehicle (RV) or motorhome while maintaining traction on all four wheels of the Patriot.
2. Two-Wheel Towing:
Using a tow dolly to lift the front wheels of the Patriot off the ground.
3. Four-Wheels-On-The-Ground Towing:
Turning off the transfer case and putting the gear shifter into Park.
First option for flat-towing the Jeep Patriot is to tow it behind an RV or motorhome.
This method involves attaching the vehicle to the RV or motorhome using a tow bar and then driving the Patriot behind the RV or motorhome.
This way of towing is called “four-down towing” because all four of the Patriot’s wheels stay on the ground while it is being pulled.
Another option is to use a tow dolly, which is a specialized trailer that lifts the front wheels of the Patriot off the ground, allowing it to be towed behind the RV or motorhome.
This method is known as “two-wheel towing” because only the back wheels of the Patriot are in contact with the ground.
You can also flat-tow the Patriot with all four wheels on the ground by deactivating the transfer case and putting the transmission in the Park position.
It is important to note that this method is only recommended for short distances and at low speeds.
When flat-towing a Jeep Patriot, ensure that all lights and signals on the vehicle are functioning properly, and that the Patriot’s brakes are in good working condition.
Additionally, it’s important to check the weight ratings and capacity of your RV or motorhome to ensure that it can safely tow the Patriot.
How Do I Flat Tow A Jeep Patriot?
When it comes to flat-towing a Jeep Patriot, there are a few different options available:
Installing a tow bar on the Patriot’s front end allows it to be towed behind a motorhome or camper. This is known as “four-down towing” as all four wheels of the Patriot remain on the ground during the process.
Using a tow dolly, which is a special trailer that lifts the front wheels of the Patriot off the ground, allowing it to be pulled behind an RV or motorhome.
This is known as “two-wheel towing” since only the back wheels of the Patriot are in contact with the ground.
To flat-tow the Patriot, deactivate the transfer case, and put the transmission in the Park position.
This will ensure that all four wheels remain firmly planted on the ground. This technique is reserved for use over very short distances and at very slow speeds.
What Can I Use To Flat-Tow A Jeep Patriot?
To successfully flat-tow a Jeep Patriot, you will require certain gear, including:
1. Tow Bar:
This is the primary component of flat-towing set up, and it attaches the towing vehicle to the vehicle being towed. There are different types of tow bars available, such as folding and non-folding.
2. Base Plates:
These are custom-made mounting brackets that attach to the frame of the tow vehicle. They provide the connection points for the tow bar.
3. Wiring Harness:
This connects the towed vehicle’s lights to the towing vehicle’s electrical system. This allows the towing vehicle to control the lights on the vehicle being towed, ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations.
4. Braking System:
Certain states require the use of a supplementary braking system when flat-towing a vehicle.
This can be a portable braking system that is installed in the vehicle being towed, or a built-in system that connects to the brakes of the towing vehicle.
5. Verify Owner’s Manual:
Prior to setting up your Jeep Patriot for flat-towing, it is essential to verify the owner’s manual for your specific make and model to ensure that it is capable of being flat-towed.
The manual should also provide information on any additional equipment or modifications that may be required.
6. Get Professional Assistance:
Flat-towing a vehicle can be intricate, and it is vital to ensure that everything is set up correctly.
Consulting a professional with experience in flat-towing can help ensure that your Jeep Patriot is properly prepared for towing and that you have all the necessary equipment.
They are also able to offer advice and direction regarding the laws and regulations that govern flat-towing in your region.
Do I Require The Services Of A Towing Company For Flat-Towing My Jeep Patriot?
The need for the assistance of a towing company for flat-towing your Jeep Patriot will depend on your familiarity and expertise with the process.
Flat-towing a vehicle can be a complex task and it is essential to ensure that everything is set up correctly.
If you are not confident in your abilities or if you are uncertain about the laws and regulations that apply to flat-towing in your area, it would be advisable to seek the help of a professional towing company.
A professional towing company has the knowledge, tools and resources to properly set up your Jeep Patriot for flat-towing and can provide guidance on the laws and regulations that apply to flat-towing in your area.
They are able to assist with the process of towing your vehicle and ensure that it is transported in a secure manner as well.
On the other hand, if you possess the experience and knowledge in flat-towing and are confident of your ability to properly set up your Jeep Patriot and abide by all laws and regulations, you may be able to flat-tow your vehicle without the need for a professional towing company.
Can You Flat Tow A 2016 Jeep Patriot?
The 2016 Jeep Patriot’s user manual states that it is not safe to flat tow this model with an automatic transmission.
Flat towing a front-wheel-drive 2016 Jeep Patriot requires some extra precautions, such as putting the transmission in Park and the transfer case in Neutral, but is still possible with a little work.
Additionally, you can use a flatbed tow trailer with the appropriate capacity to flat-tow the vehicle.
It’s important to keep in mind that flat towing a vehicle can be complex, and it is important to ensure that everything is set up correctly and comply with all laws and regulations.
It’s also recommended to consult your vehicle owner manual or a professional before flat-towing your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can you flat tow a 2012 Jeep Patriot behind a motorhome?
A 2012 Jeep Patriot with a manual transmission can typically be flat towed, as long as all proper safety precautions and guidelines are followed. This includes having all four wheels on the ground during the tow.
Additionally, it is recommended to install a supplemental braking system for added safety.
2. Can I flat tow a 2015 Jeep Patriot?
According to the owner’s manual of a 2015 Jeep Patriot, automatic transmission models are not suitable for flat towing.
However, if the Patriot is a FWD (front-wheel drive) model, it can be flat towed using a tow dolly with the front wheels off the ground.
In contrast, four-wheel drive (AWD) models are incapable of being flat towed with anything other than a truck or trailer equipped with a flatbed.
3. Can an automatic Jeep Patriot be flat towed?
The Jeep Patriot can only be flat towed if it is equipped with a manual transmission and the transmission is put into neutral before towing. This applies to both all-wheel-drive and front-wheel-drive models of the Patriot.
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