Why Your Vehicle May Not Start After Flat Towing & How to Resolve the Issue

A very popular hobby these days is to back up and hit the open road, ideally behind the wheel of a motorhome or RV, but a lot of people like to have the peace of mind of bringing a regular vehicle along with you. That’s where flat towing comes in, as it’s the best way to haul your everyday driver along with you, but not all vehicles can be flat towed and it’s not without its issues. One common problem you might run into is your vehicle not starting after flat towing it, which can be both frustrating and concerning. Today, the staff here at Glover Customs are going to dive into the common causes behind this problem and provide practical solutions to help you get back on the road smoothly and safely.

1. Battery Drain: One of the most common reasons for a vehicle not starting after flat towing is battery drain. When flat towing, the vehicle's electrical systems may continue to draw power, leading to a depleted battery. This can result in the vehicle failing to start or exhibiting electrical issues upon arrival at your destination.
2. Ignition System Disruption: Flat towing can sometimes disrupt the vehicle's ignition system, causing issues with starting the engine. This disruption may affect the ignition switch, spark plugs or other components essential for starting the vehicle.
3. Transmission Damage: Improper flat towing techniques or exceeding recommended towing speeds can put strain on the transmission system, potentially causing damage that hinders the vehicle from starting. Transmission issues can manifest as difficulty shifting gears or unusual noises when attempting to start the vehicle.
4. Fuel Delivery Problems: Flat towing can impact the fuel delivery system of the vehicle, leading to issues with fuel pressure or flow. Insufficient fuel delivery can prevent the engine from starting or cause it to stall shortly after starting.

1. Check the Battery: Start by checking the battery voltage and ensuring it is adequately charged. If the battery is low, recharge it using a battery charger or jump-start the vehicle using jumper cables connected to another vehicle.
2. Inspect the Ignition System: Verify that the ignition system components, such as the ignition switch, spark plugs and wiring, are intact and functioning correctly. Replace any damaged or worn components to restore proper ignition function.
3. Assess the Transmission: If you suspect transmission damage after flat towing, have a professional mechanic inspect the transmission system for any issues. Addressing transmission problems promptly can prevent further damage and ensure the vehicle starts smoothly.
4. Check the Fuel System: Verify that the fuel delivery system is operating correctly by checking fuel pressure and inspecting fuel lines for leaks or blockages. If necessary, clean or replace fuel filters and components to restore proper fuel flow.
5. Reset the Vehicle's Systems: In some cases, resetting the vehicle's systems by disconnecting the battery for a few minutes and then reconnecting it can resolve starting issues caused by flat towing. This process can help reset the vehicle's electronics and clear any error codes that may be affecting starting.

To avoid encountering starting issues after flat towing in the future, consider the following preventative measures:

1. Use a Tow Bar: Utilize a tow bar designed for flat towing to minimize strain on the vehicle's transmission and components.
2. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines for flat towing, including recommended speeds, distances and procedures to ensure safe towing practices.
3. Perform Regular Maintenance: Maintain your vehicle regularly, including checking the battery, ignition system, transmission and fuel system, to prevent issues that may arise during flat towing.

If you experience difficulties with your vehicle not starting after flat towing, the experienced technicians at Glover Customs are here to help. Our team can diagnose the issue, provide professional solutions and ensure that your vehicle is in optimal condition for your next adventure. Contact Glover Customs for reliable service and expert guidance on addressing starting issues after flat towing, and let us help you get back on the road with confidence.