Can the Jeep Renegade Be Flat Towed Behind a Truck

The Jeep Renegade can be flat towed behind a truck, but only under specific conditions. The front-wheel-drive models with a manual transmission are the safest candidates for dinghy towing. Always consult your owner’s manual and use the right towing equipment to protect your vehicle.

So, you want to flat tow a Jeep Renegade behind your truck. Maybe you are heading out on a big camping trip, or maybe you just want to bring your small SUV along for the ride. Either way, the big question is simple: can you do it safely?

The short answer is yes. But the full answer is a little more complicated. Not every Jeep Renegade is built the same way. Some versions can be flat towed with no problems. Others need extra steps or should not be towed at all. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about flat towing a Jeep Renegade behind a truck. We will cover the rules, the gear, the steps, and the mistakes to avoid.

By the end, you will feel confident about your towing setup. You will know exactly what to check, what to buy, and what to watch out for. Let us get into it.

Key Takeaways

• Flat towing is possible: Certain Jeep Renegade configurations can be flat towed behind a truck or RV.
• Check your drivetrain: Front-wheel-drive models with a manual transmission are the best candidates for flat towing.
• Use the right equipment: A quality tow bar, base plate, and supplemental braking system are essential.
• Follow manufacturer guidelines: Jeep has specific rules about speed, distance, and gear position during flat towing.
• Avoid common mistakes: Ignoring the owner’s manual or skipping the supplemental brake can cause serious damage.
• Practice before your trip: Set up and test your towing setup in a safe area before hitting the road.

Understanding Flat Towing Basics

What Is Flat Towing?

Flat towing means pulling a vehicle behind another vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. It is also called dinghy towing or four-down towing. This is different from using a trailer, where the towed vehicle sits completely off the ground.

Flat towing is popular among RV owners. It gives you a second vehicle at your campsite without needing a trailer. You can drive it around town, run errands, and explore off the beaten path. The Jeep Renegade is a great candidate for this because of its compact size and rugged looks.

But flat towing is not as simple as hooking up a rope and driving away. Every vehicle has different rules. The transmission type, the drivetrain, and the odometer setup all matter. Getting it wrong can lead to expensive repairs.

Why Flat Tow the Jeep Renegade?

The Jeep Renegade is one of the most popular small SUVs on the market. It is fun to drive, easy to park, and looks great. It makes sense that people would want to bring one along on road trips.

Here are a few reasons why flat towing a Renegade makes sense:

• Compact size: The Renegade is small enough to fit behind most trucks and RVs.
• Off-road capability: You can explore trails at your destination without needing a big rig.
• Fuel efficiency: Towing a small SUV uses less fuel than hauling a full-size trailer.
• Convenience: You have a working vehicle waiting for you at camp.
• Cost savings: No need to rent a car or pay for a second hotel spot.

Can the Jeep Renegade Be Flat Towed?

Manufacturer Guidelines

This is the most important part. Jeep has specific guidelines for flat towing the Renegade. These rules are in your owner’s manual, and you should follow them exactly.

Generally speaking, the front-wheel-drive Jeep Renegade with a manual transmission can be flat towed. The all-wheel-drive models and automatic transmission versions have more restrictions. Some AWD models should never be flat towed because it can damage the transfer case and transmission.

Always check the latest owner’s manual for your specific model year. Jeep updates their guidelines from year to year. What was true for a 2015 model might not apply to a 2024 model.

One thing to keep in mind: when your Renegade is being towed, the ignition needs to be in the right position. If your truck has a push start button, you need to make sure the key fob is properly recognized. For more details on handling the push start button during towing, check out our guide on Are You Supposed To Hold The Push Start Button.

Transmission and Drivetrain Considerations

The drivetrain and transmission type are the two biggest factors in whether your Renegade can be flat towed. Here is a quick breakdown:

• FWD + Manual Transmission: Generally safe for flat towing. This is the most common setup that allows four-down towing.
• FWD + Automatic Transmission: May require additional steps. Check the manual for specific instructions.
• AWD + Any Transmission: Usually not recommended for flat towing. The transfer case can be damaged if all wheels are on the ground.

The driveshaft is another important piece. When a vehicle is flat towed, the driveshaft spins even though the engine is off. This can cause overheating or wear on internal components if the vehicle is not designed for it.

What You Need for Flat Towing a Jeep Renegade

Essential Towing Equipment

You cannot just attach a rope and go. You need the right gear to tow a Jeep Renegade safely. Here is what you will need:

1. Tow bar: A lightweight tow bar rated for your Renegade’s weight. Look for a model designed specifically for small SUVs.
2. Base plate: This bolts to the front of your Renegade and connects to the tow bar. It makes attachment quick and secure.
3. Safety cables: These act as a backup if the tow bar fails. Always use them.
4. Supplemental braking system: This is critical. Your Renegade’s brakes are not active when the engine is off. A supplemental brake keeps it in sync with your truck’s braking.
5. Lighting adapter: So your brake lights and turn signals work on the towed vehicle.
6. Auxiliary fuel tank: Optional, but helpful for long trips. You do not want to run out of fuel while towing.

Installation Tips

Installing your towing setup the right way makes all the difference. Here are some quick tips:

• Have a professional install the base plate if you are not confident in your welding or drilling skills.
• Test all connections before every trip. Give everything a firm tug to make sure it is secure.
• Make sure the tow bar is level when connected. A tilted setup can cause pulling and handling issues.
• Check the speed rating on all equipment. Most flat towing setups have a maximum speed of 55 mph.

Step-by-Step Flat Towing Procedure

Once you have your equipment ready, here is how to actually flat tow your Jeep Renegade. Follow these steps in order every time you tow.

1. Start with the Renegade in neutral. Make sure the gear selector is in the neutral position. This allows the wheels to spin freely without engaging the transmission.
2. Attach the base plate to the Renegade. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific base plate model.
3. Connect the tow bar to the base plate. Lock it in place and verify the connection is secure.
4. Hook up the safety cables. Cross them under the tow bar to prevent the Renegade from dropping if the bar disconnects.
5. Connect the supplemental brake system. This is non-negotiable. It protects both vehicles during stops.
6. Plug in the lighting adapter. Test your brake lights and turn signals before you start moving.
7. Start the truck and release the parking brake. Drive slowly and carefully to your destination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Flat towing is straightforward, but mistakes happen. Here are the most common ones and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the supplemental brake: This is the number one mistake. Without it, your Renegade will keep moving when you brake, causing a dangerous jackknife situation.
• Towing an AWD model incorrectly: Not all AWD vehicles can be flat towed. Doing so can destroy the transfer case.
• Exceeding the speed limit: Most flat towing setups have a 55 mph limit. Going faster puts extra stress on the vehicle.
• Forgetting to put the vehicle in neutral: Towing in gear can cause serious transmission damage.
• Ignoring the owner’s manual: Jeep provides specific towing instructions for every model. The manual is your best friend here.
• Using the wrong tow bar: Not all tow bars fit all vehicles. Make sure yours is rated for the Renegade’s weight and attachment points.

Expert Tips for Safe Flat Towing

Want to tow like a pro? Here are some insider tips that experienced towers swear by:

Practice in an empty parking lot first. Hook up your Renegade, drive a few laps, and get comfortable with how the truck handles with a towed vehicle behind it. You will notice the extra length and weight right away.

Check your odometer readings. When the Renegade is being towed, the odometer still adds miles. Keep track of this so you stay on top of maintenance schedules like oil changes and tire rotations.

Inspect your tires before every trip. The Renegade’s tires should be properly inflated and in good condition. Worn tires can cause handling problems while towing.

Plan your stops. Towing adds distance to your trip. Factor in extra time for rest stops and fuel breaks.

Keep a checklist in your glove box. Write down every step of the setup process. When you are tired at the end of a long day, a checklist saves you from forgetting something important.

Key Takeaways

• Flat towing a Jeep Renegade is possible with the right drivetrain and transmission setup.
• FWD models with a manual transmission are the safest candidates for four-down towing.
• You need proper equipment including a tow bar, base plate, safety cables, and a supplemental braking system.
• Always follow the owner’s manual for your specific model year and drivetrain configuration.
• Never exceed 55 mph while flat towing and always test your setup before a long trip.
• Avoid common mistakes like skipping the supplemental brake or towing an AWD model without checking compatibility.

Conclusion

The Jeep Renegade can absolutely be flat towed behind a truck, as long as you follow the right guidelines. The key is knowing your specific model’s drivetrain, transmission type, and manufacturer recommendations. With the proper equipment and a little practice, you can safely bring your Renegade along for the adventure.

Remember to invest in quality towing gear, always use a supplemental braking system, and never skip the steps in your owner’s manual. Flat towing opens up a world of possibilities for camping trips, road trips, and weekend getaways. Your Jeep Renegade is ready to go wherever the road takes you, even if that road is behind the back of your truck.

Now that you know the answer to “can the Jeep Renegade be flat towed,” it is time to plan your next adventure. Get your gear, check your setup, and hit the road with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can all Jeep Renegade models be flat towed?

No, not all models can be flat towed. Front-wheel-drive models with a manual transmission are generally the safest for flat towing. AWD models and automatic transmission versions may have restrictions. Always check your specific owner’s manual before flat towing your Renegade.

What speed can you flat tow a Jeep Renegade?

Most flat towing setups for the Jeep Renegade have a maximum speed of 55 mph. Exceeding this limit can cause damage to the transmission and other drivetrain components. Always follow the speed guidelines in your owner’s manual.

Do I need a supplemental braking system for flat towing?

Yes, absolutely. A supplemental braking system is essential for safe flat towing. Without it, your towed Jeep Renegade will not have working brakes when the engine is off. This creates a serious safety hazard for you and other drivers on the road.

Can I flat tow a Jeep Renegade with all-wheel drive?

Most AWD Jeep Renegade models should not be flat towed with all four wheels on the ground. Towing an AWD vehicle incorrectly can cause severe damage to the transfer case and transmission. Always verify your drivetrain compatibility before attempting flat towing.

How do I know if my Jeep Renegade is flat towable?

The easiest way is to check the owner’s manual. Look for the flat towing or dinghy towing section. You can also contact your local Jeep dealership with your VIN number. They can confirm whether your specific Renegade is approved for flat towing.

What equipment do I need to flat tow a Jeep Renegade behind a truck?

You will need a tow bar, a base plate, safety cables, a supplemental braking system, and a lighting adapter. Some owners also add an auxiliary fuel tank for longer trips. Make sure all equipment is rated for your specific Renegade model and weight.