GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Chevrolet 🢒 2009 🢒 HHR 🢒 Driving Your Vehicle 🢒 Towing 🢒 Recreational Vehicle Towing

Recreational vehicle towing means towing the vehicle behind another vehicle - such as behind a motorhome. The two most common types of recreational vehicle towing are known as dinghy towing and dolly towing. Dinghy towing is towing the vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. Dolly towing is towing the vehicle with two wheels on the ground and two wheels up on a device known as a dolly.

Here are some important things to consider before recreational vehicle towing:

    • What is the towing capacity of the towing vehicle? Be sure to read the tow vehicle manufacturer's recommendations.
    • What is the distance that will be travelled? Some vehicles have restrictions on how far and how long they can tow.
    • Is the proper towing equipment going to be used? See your dealer/retailer or trailering professional for additional advice and equipment recommendations.
    • Is the vehicle ready to be towed? Just as preparing the vehicle for a long trip, make sure the vehicle is prepared to be towed. See Before Leaving on a Long Trip.

Dinghy Towing
Object Number: 1235863 Size: B3

Use the following procedure to dinghy tow the vehicle from the front with all four wheels on the ground:

  1. Set the parking brake.
  2. Turn the ignition key to ACC/ACCESSORY to unlock the steering wheel.
  3. Shift the transmission to N (Neutral).
  4. Release the parking brake.

To prevent the battery from draining while the vehicle is being towed, remove the following fuse from the floor console fuse block: 8 (Ignition Switch, PASS-Key® III+). See Floor Console Fuse Block for more information.

Remember to reinstall the fuse once the destination has been reached.

Notice: If 65 mph (105 km/h) is exceeded while towing the vehicle, it could be damaged. Never exceed 65 mph (105 km/h) while towing the vehicle.

Notice: Towing the vehicle from the rear could damage it. Also, repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Never have the vehicle towed from the rear.

Dolly Towing
Object Number: 1235862 Size: B3

Use the following procedure to dolly tow the vehicle from the front with two wheels on the ground:

  1. Put the front wheels on a dolly.
  2. Move the shift lever to P (Park).
  3. Set the parking brake and then remove the key.
  4. Clamp the steering wheel in a straight-ahead position with a clamping device designed for towing.
  5. Secure the vehicle to the dolly.
  6. Release the parking brake.