Can You Flat Tow A 2017 Jeep Patriot
Flat towing, also known as "dinghy towing," is a popular method for RV owners and adventure seekers who want to bring their vehicles along without using a trailer. The question often comes up: Can you flat tow a 2017 Jeep Patriot?
Not every car is designed to be pulled with all four wheels on the ground. If you own a 2017 Jeep Patriot or are thinking of buying one for travel, it's important to know the facts before you hit the road.
What Is Flat Towing?
Flat towing means pulling a vehicle behind another with all four wheels on the ground. This method is simple and doesn’t require a large trailer.
Many RV owners prefer it because it saves space and is easier to set up at campsites.
However, not all vehicles are made for flat towing. Towing a car in the wrong way can damage the transmission, drivetrain, or other important parts.
2017 Jeep Patriot Drivetrain Overview
The 2017 Jeep Patriot comes with two main drivetrain options:
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
- Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) Freedom Drive I or II
Both options have differences that matter when it comes to towing. The transmission type and drivetrain system are key factors. Let’s compare both options:
| Drivetrain | Transmission Types | Flat Tow Capable? |
|---|---|---|
| FWD | 5-Speed Manual, 6-Speed Auto, CVT | No |
| 4WD Freedom Drive I | CVT | No |
| 4WD Freedom Drive II | CVT (with Low Range) | No |
The main takeaway: No 2017 Jeep Patriot model is rated by Jeep for flat towing with all four wheels on the ground.
Why The 2017 Jeep Patriot Cannot Be Flat Towed
Jeep’s official owner’s manual clearly warns against flat towing the 2017 Patriot. The main reasons are:
- Transmission Damage: The Patriot uses a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) or a traditional automatic/manual. Both transmission types need the engine running to circulate transmission fluid. Without fluid movement, towing can cause overheating and serious damage.
- Drivetrain Design: Even the 4WD versions are not designed with a “neutral” transfer case position (unlike a Jeep Wrangler). This means the wheels are always connected to the drivetrain, causing moving parts to spin without lubrication during flat towing.
If you ignore these warnings, you risk voiding your warranty and paying for costly repairs.
Safe Towing Alternatives
If you still want to tow your 2017 Jeep Patriot, consider these safer options:
- Dolly Towing: You can use a tow dolly, which lifts the front wheels off the ground. This keeps the transmission safe because only the rear wheels roll.
- Trailer Towing: The safest method is a full flatbed trailer, where all wheels are off the ground. This completely avoids drivetrain or transmission damage.
Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons of these options:
| Towing Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Tow Dolly | Less expensive, easier to store | Not as stable as a trailer, may not work for all-wheel drive |
| Flatbed Trailer | Safest, no wear on car parts | More costly, needs more storage space |
Common Misconceptions
Some owners believe that disconnecting the driveshaft or putting the car in neutral makes flat towing safe. This is not true for the 2017 Jeep Patriot.
The transmission still needs internal lubrication, and the drivetrain design does not allow safe flat towing.
Aftermarket modifications to enable flat towing are not recommended and may void your warranty or insurance.
Another common error is to compare the Patriot to other Jeep models like the Wrangler. The Wrangler is built for flat towing, but the Patriot is not.
Always read the owner’s manual and check the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Key Tips For Towing Your Jeep Patriot
- Always consult your Jeep Patriot’s owner’s manual before towing.
- If you must tow, use a flatbed trailer for full protection.
- Avoid listening to unproven tips from forums or other owners—manufacturer advice is the most reliable.
- Before towing long distances, check your vehicle warranty to see what is allowed.
Real-world Example
Imagine you bought a used 2017 Jeep Patriot to take on a cross-country RV trip. You read a post online saying it’s fine to flat tow if you shift to neutral.
After 200 miles, your transmission overheats and fails. The repair bill is over $4,000, and your warranty is void because Jeep clearly advised against flat towing.
This is why following factory guidance is so important.
How To Find Accurate Towing Information
The best source for towing information is the owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website. Jeep’s official documentation is clear on this issue. You can also check trusted automotive sources like Edmunds for more details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Flat Tow My 2017 Jeep Patriot With The Manual Transmission?
No, the manual transmission on the 2017 Jeep Patriot is not designed for flat towing. Doing so can cause internal damage, even if the car is in neutral.
Is Dolly Towing Safe For The 2017 Jeep Patriot?
Yes, as long as you use a dolly to lift the front wheels (for FWD models), this is a safe method. However, check your manual and local towing laws before doing so.
What Happens If I Flat Tow My Patriot Anyway?
If you flat tow your 2017 Jeep Patriot, you risk serious transmission or drivetrain damage. This can lead to expensive repairs and a loss of warranty coverage.
Are There Any Aftermarket Kits To Make Flat Towing Safe?
While some companies offer driveshaft disconnect kits, these are not recommended for the Jeep Patriot. They do not solve the lubrication problem and may create more issues.
Which Jeep Models Are Flat-towable?
The Jeep Wrangler and some older Jeep Cherokee models are built for flat towing. Always check the official towing guide to be sure.
If you want a worry-free trip with your 2017 Jeep Patriot, flat towing is not the way to go. Choose a safe towing method, and always follow the manufacturer’s advice to protect your vehicle and your wallet.
