If you’re an RV owner looking for a nimble runabout vehicle, you might be wondering: can a Honda HR-V be flat towed? The answer is crucial for your setup and safety. Flat towing, also known as dinghy towing, means pulling your car with all four wheels on the ground behind your motorhome. Getting this right protects your vehicle and ensures a smooth trip.
This guide will give you the clear, accurate information you need. We’ll cover official towing guides, necessary equipment, and the step-by-step process. Let’s get started with the most important facts first.
Can A Honda HR-V Be Flat Towed?
Yes, but with a very specific and critical condition. Only certain model years of the Honda HR-V are approved by the manufacturer for flat towing. The approval depends entirely on the type of transmission in the vehicle.
- Approved for Flat Towing: Honda HR-V models equipped with a manual transmission are approved for flat towing.
- NOT Approved for Flat Towed: Honda HR-V models equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) are explicitly not approved for flat towing by Honda.
This distinction is absolute. Attempting to flat tow a CVT HR-V, even with the engine running, will cause severe and expensive internal damage to the transmission. The lack of a mechanical pump when the engine is off means the transmission components get no lubrication, leading to rapid wear and failure.
Which Honda HR-V Model Years Can You Tow?
The first-generation HR-V (model years 2016-2022) is the primary model considered for flat towing. Within these years, you must seek out a manual transmission version. It’s important to note that manual HR-Vs were not available in all trim levels and became increasingly rare in later model years.
For the second-generation HR-V (2023 and newer), the situation changes. As of this writing, no current-generation HR-V model is approved for flat towing. This includes both the standard hybrid powertrain and any gasoline-only variants. Always double-check the official owner’s manual for your specific model year and VIN.
Why the Transmission Type is a Deal-Breaker
Understanding the “why” helps you remember the rule. A manual transmission is mechanically simple when in neutral; the gears are disengaged. A CVT, however, uses a complex system of belts, pulleys, and high-pressure fluid. When the engine is off during towing, that fluid isn’t pumping, causing friction, heat, and destruction.
How to Confirm Your HR-V’s Towability
Never rely on hearsay or dealership comments. Follow these steps to be 100% certain:
- Locate your Owner’s Manual. Find the section on “Recreational Towing” or “Dinghy Towing.”
- Check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Your VIN will tell you the transmission type.
- Contact Honda Customer Service directly with your VIN for final written confirmation.
Essential Equipment for Flat Towing a Honda HR-V
Once you’ve confirmed you have a manual transmission HR-V, you’ll need the right gear. Using subpar equipment is a major safety risk.
1. Baseplate and Tow Bar
The baseplate is a frame-mounted bracket system that attaches to your HR-V’s chassis. The tow bar then connects the baseplate to your RV. You must use a baseplate specifically designed and tested for your HR-V’s model year. Professional installation is highly recommended to ensure structural integrity.
2. Supplemental Braking System
This is a legal requirement in many states and a critical safety device everywhere. It applies the brakes in your HR-V when you brake the RV. This prevents the towed vehicle from pushing the RV, reducing stopping distance and wear on the RV’s brakes. Systems can be portable or hardwired.
3. Wiring Harnesses for Lights
You need to connect your HR-V’s tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals to the RV. A dedicated wiring harness plugs into your car’s electrical system, ensuring all lights function properly during towing. This keeps you legal and visible to other drivers.
4. Tow Bar Covers and Safety Cables
Always use safety cables that criss-cross between the vehicle and the RV. These act as a backup if the tow bar fails. Brightly colored tow bar covers also improve visibility for other motorists.
Step-by-Step Guide to Flat Towing Your Manual HR-V
Following a consistent procedure prevents mistakes that could damage your car.
Pre-Tow Setup (At Home or Campground)
- Install all equipment (baseplate, braking system, wiring) per the manufacturers instructions.
- Place the HR-V’s transmission in Neutral. Do not engage the parking brake.
- Ensure the steering wheel is unlocked. The front wheels must be able to turn freely.
- Disable or turn off any automatic features like daytime running lights to prevent battery drain.
Hitching Up (Before Each Drive)
- Position the RV and HR-V in a straight line on level ground.
- Connect the tow bar to the baseplate on the HR-V, securing all pins and locks.
- Attach the safety cables, ensuring they are crossed and won’t drag on the ground.
- Plug in the wiring harness for the lights. Test all lights (brake, turn, running) with a helper.
- Connect and activate the supplemental braking system. Perform a function check.
- Do a final visual inspection of all connections, tires, and surrounding area.
On the Road and Unhitching
While driving, make periodic checks in your mirrors. Stop every few hours on your first trips to inspect all connections for tightness. When you arrive to unhitch:
- Park on a level surface and set the RV’s parking brake.
- Deactivate and disconnect the supplemental brake system.
- Unplug the lighting harness.
- Unhook the safety cables, then the tow bar.
- You can now start your HR-V and drive it normally.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Towing a CVT Model: This is the biggest and most costly mistake. It will ruin the transmission.
- Forgetting to Shift to Neutral: Towing with the parking brake on or in gear will cause immediate damage.
- Skipping the Braking System: This is unsafe, illegal, and puts tremendous strain on your RV.
- Using Universal Fit Parts: Always use model-specific baseplates and wiring.
- Neglecting Tire Pressure: Inflate all tires, including the HR-V’s, to the recommended PSI for towing.
FAQ: Honda HR-V Flat Towing Questions
Can I flat tow a 2020 Honda HR-V?
Only if it is equipped with a manual transmission. The vast majority of 2020 HR-Vs have a CVT and cannot be flat towed.
Can you tow a Honda HR-V behind an RV?
Yes, but strictly only manual transmission models of the first-generation (2016-2022) HR-V. Always verify with your owner’s manual.
Is the Honda HR-V dinghy towable?
“Dinghy towable” means the same as flat towable. The answer remains the same: manual transmission yes, CVT no.
Can I tow a Honda HR-V with an automatic transmission?
No. The HR-V has never been sold with a traditional automatic transmission in the US market. It uses a CVT, which is not approved for flat towing.
How fast can I drive while flat towing my HR-V?
Always obey state laws, which often specify a maximum towing speed (e.g., 55 mph). Even if legal, it’s safest to drive at moderate highway speeds. High speeds increase wear and the risk of sway.
Will flat towing void my Honda warranty?
If you follow Honda’s guidelines exactly (using a manual transmission model and proper procedure), it should not void the warranty. However, any damage caused by improper towing, like towing a CVT, will not be covered.
Final Checklist Before You Go
Before hitting the road for a trip, run through this list:
- ✅ Owner’s Manual confirms manual transmission flat tow approval.
- ✅ Baseplate is correctly installed for your model year.
- ✅ Supplemental braking system is tested and functional.
- ✅ All lighting connections work (brake, turn, tail).
- ✅ Transmission is in NEUTRAL, parking brake is OFF.
- ✅ Steering wheel is unlocked and moves freely.
- ✅ Tire pressures are set correctly on both vehicles.
- ✅ Safety cables are attached and crossed.
- ✅ All tow bar pins and locks are secure.
Flat towing a Honda HR-V is perfectly feasible and reliable—if you have the right model. The manual transmission requirement is non-negotiable. Investing in quality equipment and following a meticulous process will give you years of trouble-free travel. Always prioritize safety and manufacturer guidelines over convenience. With the proper setup, your HR-V can be the perfect companion for all your RV adventures, ready to explore when you park the big rig.