If you’ve ever seen an RV towing a Jeep Wrangler behind it, you might wonder if it’s really that simple. Many people who love road trips and camping want to bring their 2021 Jeep Wrangler along for off-road adventures.
But is it possible to flat tow a 2021 Wrangler without damaging the vehicle? Let’s look at the facts, the steps, and the important details so you can decide if flat towing is right for you.
What Is Flat Towing?
Flat towing means pulling a vehicle with all four wheels on the ground, often called “dinghy towing.” This is common for RV owners because it’s fast to connect and disconnect. Not all vehicles can be flat towed, though. Some cars will get damaged if towed this way, especially if their transmission or drivetrain isn’t designed for it.
Can You Flat Tow A 2021 Jeep Wrangler?
The short answer is yes, you can flat tow a 2021 Jeep Wrangler. In fact, the Wrangler is one of the most popular vehicles for flat towing behind an RV. Both the two-door and four-door models, with either manual or automatic transmission, are designed to be safely towed with all four wheels down.
Key reasons why the 2021 Wrangler is flat-tow friendly:
- Transfer case: The Wrangler has a true neutral position in its transfer case. This means you can disconnect the drivetrain from the wheels.
- Transmission compatibility: Both manual and automatic transmissions allow for flat towing when set up correctly.
- Factory guidance: Jeep officially approves flat towing for the Wrangler in the owner’s manual.
How To Flat Tow A 2021 Jeep Wrangler
Flat towing a Wrangler is easy, but you must follow the correct steps to avoid damage.
1. Equipment Needed
You’ll need the following items:
- Tow bar rated for your Wrangler’s weight
- Base plate kit installed on the Wrangler
- Safety cables
- Wiring harness for brake and turn signal lights
- Auxiliary braking system (required by law in many states)
2. Preparing The Vehicle
Before you tow, you must prepare the Wrangler:
- Start the engine and keep your foot on the brake.
- Shift the automatic transmission into neutral or disengage the manual transmission.
- Place the transfer case in the “neutral” position. This disconnects the wheels from the drivetrain.
- Make sure the steering wheel is unlocked. This allows the front wheels to turn freely.
- Turn off all accessories and lock the doors.
3. Connecting For Towing
- Attach the tow bar to the base plate.
- Connect the safety cables between the vehicles.
- Plug in the wiring harness for lights.
- Attach the auxiliary braking system if needed.
4. Double-check Everything
Before you start driving, check these points:
- The transfer case is in neutral.
- The transmission is in park (automatic) or gear (manual) as recommended by Jeep.
- All connections are secure.
- Brake and signal lights work on the Wrangler.
Comparison: Flat Towing Vs. Other Towing Methods
Here’s how flat towing compares with dolly towing and trailer towing:
| Method | Wheels on Ground | Setup Time | Cost | Storage Needs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flat Towing | 4 | Fast | Medium | Minimal |
| Dolly Towing | 2 | Moderate | Medium-High | Needs dolly storage |
| Trailer Towing | 0 | Slow | High | Needs trailer storage |
Flat towing is the fastest to set up and doesn’t require much extra storage. However, you do need to install a base plate and buy a quality tow bar.
Important Tips And Insights
Many beginners miss a few key points:
- Check state laws: Some states require a supplemental braking system for towed vehicles. Not having one can result in fines or accidents.
- Battery drain: On some Wranglers, leaving the ignition on (to unlock the steering) can drain the battery. Consider a battery disconnect switch or periodic engine starts.
- Tire wear: Flat towing does cause some tire wear, especially if your wheels are not aligned perfectly.
- Insurance: Make sure your insurance covers your Wrangler while it’s being towed.
Data: How Popular Is Flat Towing The Wrangler?
The Jeep Wrangler is one of the most towed vehicles behind RVs in the US. According to the Family Motor Coach Association, the Wrangler consistently ranks as a top choice for flat towing due to its simple setup and reliability. In 2020, nearly 40% of all flat-towed vehicles behind RVs were Jeep Wranglers.
Cost Breakdown For Flat Towing Setup
Here’s a look at the estimated cost to set up your Wrangler for flat towing:
| Item | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Tow Bar | $400 – $1,000 |
| Base Plate Kit | $350 – $600 |
| Wiring Harness | $50 – $150 |
| Brake System | $300 – $1,200 |
| Installation (optional) | $300 – $600 |
The total setup cost usually falls between $1,100 and $3,500, depending on what you choose and if you install it yourself.
What Can Go Wrong? Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Forgetting to put the transfer case in neutral: This can destroy your transmission in a few miles.
- Skipping the brake system: This makes stopping much harder and is unsafe.
- Improper wiring: If your brake or signal lights do not work, you could get rear-ended.
- Overloading your RV: Always check the towing capacity of your RV and make sure the total weight is safe.
Where To Find Official Guidance
For the most accurate steps and towing limits, always check your 2021 Jeep Wrangler owner’s manual. Jeep also has online resources and community forums where owners share their experiences. For deeper technical details, visit the official Jeep website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Flat Tow A 2021 Jeep Wrangler With Automatic Transmission?
Yes, both manual and automatic 2021 Jeep Wranglers can be flat towed. The key is to set the transfer case to neutral and follow the correct steps to avoid damage.
Do I Need A Special Tow Bar For The Wrangler?
You need a tow bar rated for the weight of your Wrangler and a matching base plate kit installed on the vehicle. Make sure the tow bar is compatible with your Wrangler’s year and model.
Will Flat Towing Affect My Jeep’s Warranty?
Flat towing your 2021 Wrangler as described in the owner’s manual will not void the warranty. However, any damage caused by not following instructions may not be covered.
Is An Auxiliary Braking System Required?
Most US states require a braking system for the towed vehicle if it exceeds a certain weight. It’s also safer and helps prevent accidents.
Can I Tow My Wrangler With The Transfer Case In 4wd?
No, never tow with the transfer case in 4WD or any driving gear. Always use the “neutral” position in the transfer case to prevent transmission damage.
Bringing your 2021 Jeep Wrangler along for the ride is both possible and practical if you follow the steps above. With proper preparation, you can enjoy your Wrangler wherever your adventure takes you.
