Yes, you can flat tow a Smart car, but it’s crucial to understand the specific requirements and potential limitations. While many smaller vehicles can be towed with all four wheels on the ground (flat towing or dinghy towing), the process for a Smart car, particularly the Smart Fortwo, requires careful consideration of its unique design and drivetrain. This guide will delve into the intricacies of towing a Smart car and provide a comprehensive Smart car towing guide to ensure you can safely transport your vehicle behind a motorhome or other recreational vehicle.
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Deciphering Smart Car Towing Capabilities
The allure of Smart car RV towing is undeniable for many motorhome owners. Their compact size and fuel efficiency make them an attractive option as a towed vehicle. However, not all Smart cars are created equal when it comes to flat towing a Smart Fortwo. The key differentiator lies in the transmission.
Transmission Types and Towing Suitability
Historically, Smart cars have offered a range of transmissions, and this is where most of the confusion arises.
- Manual Transmissions: If your Smart car is equipped with a true manual transmission, flat towing is generally feasible. The clutch can be disengaged, allowing the transmission and drivetrain to remain neutral during towing.
- Automated Manual Transmissions (AMTs): This is where things get tricky. Many Smart Fortwo models, especially those from earlier generations (like the first and second generations), were equipped with an AMT. This transmission acts like a manual gearbox but is operated automatically by a computer and actuators. Crucially, flat towing a Smart car with an AMT is NOT recommended by the manufacturer and can lead to significant damage. The system is not designed to have the drive wheels freely rotating without the engine running.
- Dual Clutch Transmissions (DCTs): Later Smart car models, particularly the third generation Smart Fortwo, may feature a DCT. While DCTs are more sophisticated than AMTs, flat towing a Smart car with a DCT is also generally not advised. The internal mechanisms of a DCT can be damaged if towed with all four wheels on the ground and the transmission not in a designated “neutral” or “tow” mode, which is often absent in these vehicles.
It is paramount to consult your Smart car’s owner’s manual or contact a Smart dealership to confirm the exact transmission type of your specific model before attempting to flat tow. Relying on general assumptions can be a costly mistake.
Smart Fortwo Towing: The Dangers of Improper Towing
Attempting to flat tow a Smart Fortwo with an inappropriate transmission can result in severe damage to the transmission, drivetrain, and potentially the entire vehicle. The primary concern with AMTs and DCTs is the internal lubrication and cooling systems. When towed, the transmission fluid may not circulate correctly without the engine running, leading to overheating and component failure. Gears can grind, clutches can burn, and the transmission housing can be compromised.
Alternatives to Flat Towing a Smart Car
Given the transmission limitations, what are the viable options if you want to bring your Smart car along on your RV adventures?
1. Using a Smart Car Towing Dolly
A Smart car towing dolly is a popular and often recommended solution for towing a Smart car. A tow dolly lifts the front wheels of the vehicle off the ground, allowing the rear wheels to roll freely. This method is much more forgiving for vehicles with automatic or automated manual transmissions, as it disconnects the drivetrain from the road.
Key Considerations for Using a Smart Car Towing Dolly:
- Weight Capacity: Ensure the tow dolly has a sufficient weight capacity for your Smart car. Smart cars are light, but it’s always good to check specifications.
- Attachment Points: The dolly must securely connect to the Smart car’s chassis. Smart cars often have specific tow hook points, but you’ll need to verify compatibility with the dolly’s system.
- Braking Systems: Depending on the weight of the towed vehicle and local regulations, you may need an auxiliary braking system for the dolly.
- Dolly Type: There are manual and electric dolly systems. Electric dollies often have a self-loading feature, which can be more convenient.
Pros of Using a Smart Car Towing Dolly:
- Safer for Transmissions: It avoids putting stress on transmissions that are not designed for flat towing.
- Easier Maneuvering: Dollies can be easier to maneuver in tight spaces compared to full trailers.
- Cost-Effective: Generally less expensive than a full car trailer.
Cons of Using a Smart Car Towing Dolly:
- Tire Wear: The rear tires of the Smart car will still be in contact with the road. This can lead to increased tire wear and potential overheating if towing for very long distances.
- Additional Equipment: You need to manage the dolly itself when not in use.
- Speed and Distance Limitations: Some dolly manufacturers may have speed or distance recommendations to prevent tire overheating.
2. Using a Smart Car Car Trailer
For ultimate peace of mind and maximum protection, transporting your Smart car on a dedicated car trailer is the most secure method. This completely isolates your Smart car from the road, eliminating any concerns about drivetrain damage.
Key Considerations for Using a Smart Car Car Trailer:
- Trailer Type: Consider a lightweight, open-deck trailer or a fully enclosed trailer. Open trailers are generally more affordable and easier to store, while enclosed trailers offer better protection from the elements and theft.
- Loading Ramps: Ensure the trailer has suitable ramps for loading your Smart car. The low ground clearance of some Smart cars can make loading tricky.
- Tie-Down Points: The trailer must have secure tie-down points to firmly attach your Smart car.
- Towing Vehicle Capacity: Your motorhome must have the appropriate towing capacity and hitch to safely tow the trailer and the Smart car.
Pros of Using a Smart Car Car Trailer:
- Maximum Protection: Eliminates all risks to the Smart car’s drivetrain and body.
- Versatility: Allows you to tow any vehicle that fits the trailer’s capacity.
- No Mileage Added: Your Smart car’s odometer won’t accumulate miles.
Cons of Using a Smart Car Car Trailer:
- Cost: Trailers are a significant investment.
- Storage: Storing a trailer can be challenging.
- Maneuverability: Towing a trailer can be more difficult in certain driving conditions and parking situations.
- Setup Time: Loading and unloading the Smart car onto the trailer takes more time and effort.
Smart Car Dinghy Towing: The Nuances of Flat Towing
While we’ve discussed the caveats, let’s delve deeper into the specifics of Smart car dinghy towing if your model is indeed compatible. The term “dinghy towing” is often used interchangeably with flat towing.
Identifying a Flat-Towable Smart Car
The primary determinant of how to tow a Smart car via flat towing is its transmission and specific model year.
- Pre-2008 Smart Fortwo (First Generation): These models are the most likely to have manual transmissions or, more commonly, the problematic AMTs. It is crucial to confirm the transmission type. If it’s an AMT, flat towing is generally not an option.
- 2008-2015 Smart Fortwo (Second Generation): Primarily offered with AMTs. Flat towing these models is generally not recommended.
- 2016-Present Smart Fortwo (Third Generation): These models moved to a rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive platform with a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) or a manual transmission in some markets. Again, flat towing a DCT-equipped Smart Fortwo is typically not advised. Only a rare manual transmission variant would be suitable.
How to Check Your Transmission:
- Owner’s Manual: This is your most reliable source. It will explicitly state towing procedures, if any are permitted.
- Gear Shifter: AMTs often have a shifter that looks automatic but may have “A” for automatic, “M” for manual, and “N” for neutral. However, “N” on an AMT might not behave like a true neutral for towing.
- VIN Decoder: Some VIN decoders can provide information about the transmission type.
- Dealership: Contacting a Smart dealership is the safest bet if you are unsure.
Essential Equipment for Flat Towing a Smart Car (If Permitted)
If you have confirmed your Smart car is a manual transmission model suitable for flat towing, you will need specific equipment.
- Base Plate: A base plate is a crucial component that mounts directly to the Smart car’s frame. It provides secure attachment points for your tow bar. Brands like Blue Ox and Roadmaster offer base plates specifically designed for various Smart car models. Ensuring the correct base plate for your exact Smart car year and model is critical.
- Tow Bar: The tow bar connects the base plate on the towed vehicle to the hitch on the motorhome. There are different types of tow bars, including rigid and retractable designs.
- Safety Cables/Chains: These are a mandatory safety feature that connect the towed vehicle to the motorhome. They act as a backup in case the primary connection fails.
- Towing Lights: Your Smart car will need its brake lights and turn signals to function when towed. This is usually achieved with a wiring harness that plugs into your motorhome’s lighting system, or via magnetic tow lights.
- Supplemental Braking System: This is arguably the most important piece of safety equipment for any towed vehicle, including a Smart car. When you brake the motorhome, the supplemental braking system activates the brakes on the Smart car. This not only enhances safety by reducing stopping distances but is also legally required in many states and provinces for vehicles over a certain weight. Brands like Blue Ox (Avail, Patriot), Demco (Stay-IN-Tow), and RVi (Brake 3.0) offer various options. The system needs to be compatible with your Smart car’s braking system.
Towing Requirements Smart Car: Specific Considerations
When towing a Smart car behind a motorhome, even a manual transmission model, there are specific towing requirements Smart car owners must adhere to:
- Manual Transmission in Neutral: If your Smart car has a true manual transmission, it must be shifted into neutral before towing.
- Parking Brake Disengaged: The parking brake must be fully disengaged.
- Ignition Key Position: The owner’s manual will specify the correct ignition key position. Usually, it’s in the “Accessory” (ACC) or “Off” position, but never in the “Lock” position, as this can engage steering wheel lock. In some cases, the battery may need to be disconnected to prevent drain from accessories or the supplemental braking system.
- Steering Wheel: The steering wheel should be unlocked. This is typically achieved by leaving the key in the ACC position.
- Maximum Speed and Distance: Always adhere to any limitations on towing speed and distance specified by the manufacturer of the Smart car, base plate, tow bar, and braking system.
Smart Car Towing Dolly vs. Flat Towing: A Comparative Look
Let’s compare the two primary methods for towing a Smart car, assuming you have a compatible manual transmission model for flat towing.
| Feature | Smart Car Towing Dolly | Flat Towing (Manual Transmission Smart Car) |
|---|---|---|
| Drivetrain Strain | Minimal to none on the Smart car’s transmission. | Potential strain if not a true manual; designed for manuals. |
| Complexity | Moderately complex to attach and secure dolly. | More complex setup with base plate, tow bar, lights, brakes. |
| Tire Wear | Rear tires wear. | All four tires wear. |
| Odometer Usage | Rear wheels roll, so odometer may register mileage. | All four wheels roll, odometer will register mileage. |
| Cost | Generally less expensive than a full trailer. | Can be costly due to base plate, tow bar, braking system. |
| Safety Regulation | Supplemental brakes often required based on weight. | Supplemental brakes almost always legally required. |
| Setup Time | Quicker to attach and detach compared to flat towing setup. | Takes longer due to connecting multiple components. |
| Maneuverability | Easier to manage than a full trailer. | Similar to driving without a towed vehicle, but with added length. |
| Component Failure | Dolly failure, hitch failure, or Smart car tire failure. | Base plate failure, tow bar failure, Smart car drivetrain failure. |
The decision between a tow dolly and flat towing (for compatible models) often comes down to your specific Smart car model, budget, frequency of towing, and personal preference for setup complexity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Smart Car Towing
Here are some common questions people have about towing a Smart car:
Q1: Can I flat tow any Smart Fortwo?
No, you cannot flat tow any Smart Fortwo. Only Smart Fortwo models with a true manual transmission are generally considered safe for flat towing. Models with automated manual transmissions (AMTs) or dual-clutch transmissions (DCTs) are typically not designed for flat towing and can be severely damaged if towed this way. Always confirm your vehicle’s transmission type and consult the owner’s manual.
Q2: What is the best way to tow a Smart car with a motorhome?
The safest and most recommended methods for towing a Smart car behind a motorhome are using a Smart car towing dolly or a full car trailer. If your Smart Fortwo has a manual transmission, flat towing with the correct equipment (base plate, tow bar, and supplemental braking system) is also an option, but requires more specialized gear and careful adherence to towing requirements Smart car.
Q3: Will towing my Smart car add miles to the odometer?
Yes, if you are flat towing a Smart car, the wheels are turning, and the odometer will register mileage. If you use a tow dolly, the rear wheels are on the ground, so the odometer will likely still register mileage. Using a car trailer completely prevents mileage accumulation.
Q4: Do I need a braking system for towing a Smart car?
Yes, a supplemental braking system is highly recommended and often legally required when towing any vehicle, including a Smart car, especially when towing a Smart car behind a motorhome. This ensures safety and compliance with regulations.
Q5: How do I know if my Smart car has an AMT or a manual transmission?
The best way to determine your Smart car’s transmission type is to consult your owner’s manual, check the gear shifter (AMTs often have an “A” mode, but this doesn’t mean it’s suitable for flat towing), or contact a Smart dealership.
Q6: What are the specific towing requirements for a Smart car?
The towing requirements Smart car vary by transmission type. For manual transmission models intended for flat towing, you’ll need a base plate, tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and a supplemental braking system. For AMT or DCT models, the requirement is to use a tow dolly or a trailer.
Q7: Is it cheaper to use a Smart car towing dolly or to flat tow?
The initial cost of a Smart car towing dolly is generally lower than the combined cost of a base plate, tow bar, and braking system required for flat towing. However, if you already own or plan to purchase these components for other vehicles, the cost difference may be less significant.
Q8: Can I use my Smart car as a dinghy?
The term “dinghy towing” refers to flat towing. As previously stated, only Smart Fortwo towing with a true manual transmission is generally suitable for dinghy towing. If your Smart car has an AMT or DCT, it cannot be used as a dinghy.
Final Thoughts on Smart Car Towing
Towing a Smart car can be a fantastic way to enhance your RVing experience, providing a convenient and economical city car at your destination. However, the specifics of Smart car RV towing are critical. The most important takeaway is to thoroughly research your specific Smart car model and its transmission type. Never assume that because a car is small and lightweight, it can be flat-towed. Prioritize safety, legality, and the longevity of your vehicle by choosing the appropriate towing method. Whether you opt for a Smart car towing dolly, a trailer, or carefully plan for flat towing a compatible manual transmission model, being informed is your best defense against costly mistakes.