Flat towing a Jeep Wrangler is one of those things that sounds easy until you’re standing behind the RV, tow bar in hand, wondering, “Did I miss a step… and is my transfer case really in Neutral?” The good news: most 4WD Wranglers are made for this job. The bad news: skipping the little details can cause real damage (and ruin a trip fast).
This guide walks you through the full setup—what you need, the exact shifting procedure, how to hook up cleanly, and the gear worth buying if you want a “set it up once and go” towing system.
Quick Picks (Top Flat-Tow Gear)
Want strong, proven gear fast? These are solid places to start (all $300+).
- Best Overall Braking System:
Blue Ox Patriot BRK2022
A popular portable brake that moves between vehicles and helps you meet braking rules in many states.
- Best Budget Tow Bar:
Blue Ox BX4370 Ascent Tow Bar
Lightweight aluminum feel, easier to handle, and plenty of capacity for typical Wrangler setups.
- Best Premium Tow Bar:
Roadmaster 676 Nighthawk Tow Bar
Built like a tank, smooth hookup, and a favorite if you tow often and want top-shelf hardware.
Buyer’s Guide: What You Need to Flat Tow a Wrangler
Flat towing is not just “a bar and go.” A safe setup has a few key pieces that all work together. Here’s what to look for before you spend money (or drill anything).
Key things to check before you buy
- Baseplate fitment (your exact Wrangler + bumper): The baseplate is the vehicle-side mounting point. Stock bumper, steel bumper, aftermarket bumper, winch— all of that can change what fits.
- Tow bar rating: Choose a tow bar rated above your Wrangler’s weight. More rating usually means stronger arms and less flex.
- Supplemental braking: Many places require it. Even when not required, it makes stops smoother and helps protect your RV brakes. You’ll usually choose portable (moves between cars) or permanently installed (cleaner day-to-day).
- Lighting method: You need the Wrangler’s tail lights to mirror the RV. Common routes are diode kits (use factory lights) or separate bulbs. Some kits are different for LED vs incandescent tail lights.
- Safety cables + breakaway switch: Cables are not optional. The breakaway switch is tied to the braking system so the Wrangler can stop if it separates.
- Hitch height (level towing): Your tow bar should sit close to level. If the RV hitch is high, you may need a drop/rise hitch to keep angles right.
How to Flat Tow a Jeep Wrangler (Exact Transfer Case Neutral Procedure)
The Wrangler’s transfer case (N) Neutral disconnects the driveshafts from the powertrain so the wheels can roll freely. Your owner’s manual is the final word for your year and trim, but the standard Wrangler 4WD procedure looks
like this.
Before you start: the quick safety checklist
- Only flat tow a 4WD Wrangler set up for recreational towing.
- Do not dolly tow a 4WD Wrangler (two wheels on the ground). Use all four down or all four up on a trailer.
- Tow forward only.
- Make sure your tow bar connects to a proper baseplate (avoid clamp-on bumper setups).
Shifting the Wrangler into Transfer Case Neutral (N) for flat towing
- Bring the vehicle to a complete stop on level ground.
- Press and hold the brake pedal.
- Shift the transmission to NEUTRAL (automatic), or press the clutch (manual).
- Turn the engine OFF.
- Shift the transfer case lever into (N) Neutral.
- Start the engine.
- Shift the transmission into REVERSE.
- Release the brake pedal (and clutch on a manual) for five seconds and confirm there is
no vehicle movement. - Repeat the “no movement” check with the automatic in DRIVE or the manual in FIRST gear. (Same idea: release for a few seconds and confirm it does not creep.)
- Turn the engine OFF.
- Firmly apply the parking brake.
- Shift the transmission into PARK (automatic) or place the manual transmission in gear (not neutral).
Important: Do not shift into PARK while the engine is running with the transfer case in (N).
- Attach the Wrangler to the tow vehicle using a suitable tow bar.
- Release the parking brake.
Steering wheel / ignition note
You must keep the steering from locking. On key-start Wranglers, this usually means the key is placed in an
unlocked OFF position (not fully locked). On push-button models, follow your manual’s guidance so the steering remains unlocked without leaving the vehicle in a mode that drains the battery.
Hookup steps (tow bar, cables, wiring, and brakes)
Once the Wrangler is in transfer case (N), use this clean hookup order:
- Line up the Wrangler behind the RV on level ground.
- Connect tow bar arms to the baseplate tabs and secure the pins/clips.
- Cross and connect safety cables under the tow bar (creates a “cradle” if something drops).
- Plug in the electrical umbilical (RV-to-Jeep) and confirm lights work: running, brake, left, right.
- Connect the breakaway cable to the RV (separate from safety cables).
- Install/arm your supplemental braking system and do its test cycle.
- Do a slow pull test: roll forward a few feet to lock tow bar arms and confirm tracking is straight.
Unhooking and shifting out of transfer case (N)
When you arrive, don’t guess. Use a consistent “undo” routine:
- Stop on level ground, still connected to the tow vehicle.
- Firmly apply the parking brake.
- Start the engine.
- Press and hold the brake pedal.
- Shift the transmission into NEUTRAL.
- Turn the engine OFF.
- Shift the transfer case to your desired position (2H, 4H, etc.).
- Shift the automatic transmission into PARK, or place a manual transmission in NEUTRAL.
- Release the brake pedal.
- Disconnect the vehicle from the tow vehicle.
- Start the engine.
- Press and hold the brake pedal.
- Release the parking brake.
- Shift into gear and confirm the vehicle drives normally.
Common flat-tow problems (and quick fixes)
- Tow bar won’t release: You’re in a bind. Roll the Wrangler slightly forward or backward (an inch or two) to remove pressure, then try again.
- Wrangler battery keeps dying: Consider a charge line from the RV, and make sure accessories are truly off. Braking systems and steering-unlock modes can draw power over long days.
- It creeps during the “no movement” check: The transfer case likely is not fully in (N). Repeat the full shift procedure.
- RV lights work, Jeep tail lights don’t: Check your diode wiring connections and ground points first.
Detailed Product Reviews (Complete Flat Tow Packages)
If you want fewer compatibility headaches, complete packages can be the fastest path. These are the “big bundle” type kits that typically land above the $2,000 mark once you include the tow bar, baseplate, wiring, and a braking system. Always confirm
fitment for your exact year, trim, bumper, and tail light type before buying.
1)
Roadmaster Nighthawk + Baseplate + Wiring + Invisibrake (2018–2025 Wrangler JL)
Who it’s for: JL owners who tow often and want a premium, clean setup with a permanently-installed brake.
Key Benefits:
- Nighthawk tow bar is a high-end option with strong build and a smooth hookup feel.
- Invisibrake is a “set it and forget it” style supplemental brake (no box on the floor each trip).
- Bundle includes the core pieces so you are not hunting for matching part numbers.
Pros:
- One package covers the essentials: tow bar, baseplate, wiring, braking.
- Nice long-term choice if you tow a lot each season.
- Cleaner cabin (no portable brake sitting on the floor).
Cons:
- Install is more involved than a portable brake system.
- Fitment can change with aftermarket bumpers and winch setups.
Final Verdict: If you want a premium flat-tow setup for a JL and you’d rather install once than fuss every travel day, this is a strong pick.
Check it on Amazon.
2)
Roadmaster Nighthawk + Baseplate + Wiring + Invisibrake (Wrangler JK bundle)
Who it’s for: JK owners who want the same “premium tow bar + installed braking” idea as newer JL drivers.
Key Benefits:
- Designed as a matched system so the big pieces work together.
- Installed braking helps with smoother stopping and less stress on the RV.
- Great long-haul choice when the Wrangler is your dedicated “toad.”
Pros:
- Strong hardware for frequent towing.
- More “RV-ready” than piecing together random parts.
- Cleaner daily routine once installed.
Cons:
- Verify tail light wiring method matches your JK (and any LED conversions).
- Professional install may be worth it if you want it done fast and neat.
Final Verdict: If your JK is a regular travel partner, this style of kit can make towing feel routine instead of fussy.
See current availability.
3)
Roadmaster Sterling All-Terrain + Baseplate + Wiring + Invisibrake (Wrangler bundle)
Who it’s for: Wrangler owners who want a heavy-duty feel and tow in mixed conditions (campgrounds, uneven sites, dirt lots).
Key Benefits:
- Sterling All-Terrain style tow bars are built for tough use and frequent hookup cycles.
- Bundled braking system helps keep stopping controlled on long downhill grades.
- Good match for owners who tow a lot and keep their setup for years.
Pros:
- Rugged build for repeat towing.
- Bundle format reduces mismatch mistakes.
- Pairs well with a dedicated “tow-ready” Wrangler.
Cons:
- Still need to confirm bumper/baseplate compatibility.
- Higher upfront spend than building slowly over time.
Final Verdict: If you tow often and want gear that feels like it belongs on an RV full-time, this is worth a look.
Check today’s price.
4)
Roadmaster Sterling All-Terrain Package (Tail Light-Specific options)
Who it’s for: Owners who want a Sterling-style setup but need the wiring to match their Wrangler’s tail lights.
Key Benefits:
- Some packages are tailored for LED vs incandescent tail lights (important for clean, reliable signals).
- Bundled braking keeps the system complete instead of “almost done.”
- Good for people who want fewer last-minute part runs.
Pros:
- Better chance of getting the correct lighting pieces the first time.
- Solid choice when you want one order, one delivery, one install plan.
- Works well as a dedicated towing setup.
Cons:
- Must match your tail light type (and any aftermarket tail light changes).
- Install time is longer than a basic tow bar-only setup.
Final Verdict: If you’ve ever chased wiring gremlins, a tail light-matched bundle can save a lot of frustration.
See the options.
5)
Blue Ox Alpha 2 Tow Bar + Baseplate + Wiring + Patriot Brake (Wrangler package)
Who it’s for: Wrangler owners who want a respected tow bar and a portable brake system in one matched kit.
Key Benefits:
- Alpha 2 is a go-to tow bar for many RVers.
- Patriot brake is portable, so it can move to your next tow vehicle if you switch later.
- Bundled wiring helps make the “lights work” part less painful.
Pros:
- Portable brake is easier to transfer between vehicles.
- Strong, well-known tow bar platform.
- Bundle reduces part-number mixups.
Cons:
- Portable brakes take a few minutes to place and arm each travel day.
- Still confirm the baseplate fits your exact Wrangler year and trim.
Final Verdict: If you like the idea of a proven tow bar plus a brake you can reuse later, this package is a smart direction.
Check it on Amazon.
6)
Blue Ox Avail + Baseplate + Wiring + (Kit options shown in listing)
Who it’s for: People who want a heavier-duty Blue Ox tow bar feel and prefer buying a matched bundle.
Key Benefits:
- Avail-style tow bars are built for higher ratings and frequent towing.
- Matched bundle can be simpler than piecing together separate items.
- Good option if your Wrangler is your main travel vehicle all season.
Pros:
- Strong tow bar platform.
- Bundle shopping is simpler.
- Nice fit for full-time or frequent towing routines.
Cons:
- Double-check the exact parts included (some listings show multiple kit variations).
- Fitment can change with bumper upgrades.
Final Verdict: If you want a sturdy Blue Ox system and you like the “buy it as one kit” approach, this is worth comparing.
See details on Amazon.
Comparison Table
| Name | Key Features | Specs/Capacity | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roadmaster Nighthawk + Invisibrake (JL) | Tow bar + baseplate + wiring + installed brake | Bundle for 2018–2025 Wrangler JL | Check price |
| Roadmaster Nighthawk + Invisibrake (JK) | Matched towing system, clean daily routine | Wrangler JK bundle (verify exact year) | Check price |
| Roadmaster Sterling All-Terrain + Invisibrake | Heavy-duty feel, great for frequent towing | Wrangler bundle (verify trim/bumper) | Check price |
| Sterling Package (tail light-specific) | Wiring matched to LED/incandescent options | Wrangler bundle (choose correct lights) | Check price |
| Blue Ox Alpha 2 + Patriot (Package) | Tow bar + baseplate + wiring + portable brake | Wrangler package (confirm baseplate) | Check price |
| Blue Ox Avail (Bundle listing) | Higher-rated tow bar style, bundle shopping | Kit variations (confirm what’s included) | Check price |
FAQ
Can I flat tow a Jeep Wrangler with an automatic transmission?
Yes, many 4WD Wranglers with an automatic can be flat towed when the transfer case is in (N) Neutral and the transmission is placed in PARK (following the correct sequence). Always use your owner’s manual for your exact model year.
Do I need to disconnect the driveshaft to flat tow a Wrangler?
In most cases, no. The transfer case (N) Neutral is designed to disconnect the drivetrain for recreational towing. If your Wrangler is not shifting cleanly into (N) or you have unusual drivetrain modifications, talk to a towing installer.
Do I really need a supplemental braking system?
Many states and provinces require one above certain weight limits. Even when not required, it improves control, reduces stopping distance, and helps protect the RV’s brakes.
Why does my Wrangler battery die during towing?
Steering-unlock requirements, brake systems, and electronics can draw power over a long day. Many RVers add a charge line from the motorhome to keep the Wrangler topped up while towing.
What’s the most important “don’t skip this” step?
The “no movement” check after shifting into transfer case (N). If the Jeep creeps in Reverse or Drive/First, the transfer case likely isn’t fully in (N), and towing like that can cause damage.
Conclusion: Flat Towing a Wrangler Should Feel Routine
Once you do it a few times, flat towing a Jeep Wrangler becomes a simple rhythm: shift into transfer case (N) correctly, hook up in the same order every time, test lights and brakes, and roll out with confidence. The Wrangler is a great “toad” because
it’s built for adventure—just treat the towing setup with the same respect you give a trail.
If you want the easiest long-term experience, a complete flat tow package can be the cleanest route. Less guessing. Fewer missing parts. More time actually traveling.
Ready to build your setup? Start by checking the complete packages above, then match your Wrangler year, bumper, and tail light type before you buy.
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