The allure of the open road beckons, and for many RV enthusiasts, the desire to bring their trusty vehicle along for the ride is strong. This leads to a crucial question for Scion owners Can A Scion Be Flat Towed? The answer, as with many automotive inquiries, is not a simple yes or no but depends on a few key factors and proper preparation.
Understanding the Nuances of Flat Towing Your Scion
Flat towing, also known as dinghy towing or four-down towing, involves attaching a towed vehicle to the back of an RV using a tow bar. The towed vehicle’s wheels remain on the ground, and it essentially rolls along behind the motorhome. For this to be a viable option, the vehicle’s transmission and drivetrain must be able to handle being towed in this manner without sustaining damage. The importance of understanding your specific Scion model’s capabilities for flat towing cannot be overstated. Incorrect towing can lead to costly repairs and a ruined vacation.
Scion models, being part of the Toyota family, often share components and engineering principles. However, minor variations can make a significant difference. Generally, front-wheel-drive vehicles are more straightforward to flat tow than rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive vehicles. For Scions, the primary concern lies with the transmission.
- Automatic Transmissions: Many automatic transmissions require specific towing procedures to prevent internal damage. This often involves placing the transmission in neutral and sometimes disconnecting the driveshaft.
- Manual Transmissions: Manual transmissions are typically more forgiving when flat towed, as long as they are placed in neutral and the parking brake is disengaged.
It’s crucial to consult your Scion’s owner’s manual for definitive guidance. You may find information such as:
| Scion Model | Typical Towing Recommendation (Consult Manual) |
|---|---|
| Scion tC (Automatic) | Often requires transmission in Park, Emergency Brake OFF, or specific neutral position if available. May not be recommended for flat towing. |
| Scion xB (Automatic) | Similar considerations to tC. Check manual for neutral gear procedure or if driveshaft disconnect is advised. |
| Scion xD (Automatic) | Check for neutral gear procedure or if specific towing modes are available. |
| Scion FR-S/86 (Manual) | Generally more amenable to flat towing in neutral, but always verify. |
Beyond the transmission, you’ll also need to consider specific towing equipment. This includes a sturdy tow bar, a braking system for the towed vehicle (often a legal requirement), and potentially a supplemental braking system to assist your RV. Wiring for trailer lights and a wiring harness to connect your Scion’s lights to your RV are also essential.
To get the most accurate and detailed information on whether your specific Scion model can be flat towed, please refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual. This is the definitive source for all towing-related instructions and recommendations provided by the manufacturer.