Towing, 2008, Honda, ,Element, 4 down
Would like to hear from anyone that has, or is towing this as a toad. Automatic, or standard. Pros./cons Thanks, Chuck
Forum Discussion
Big Katuna wrote:
So why is it ok to tow a CRV but not an Element?
I repeat; I have towed two Elements tens of thousands of miles with no problems.
I asked a Honda rep about the 65 limit. He said Honda would not condone breaking speed limits while towing.
I drive at 62 which the slowest I can drive and keep the Allison in sixth gear.
Because the price of a CRV includes the additional cost of providing a warranty to cover the risks associated with flat towing, the price of an Element does not. FWIW, in those model years, all automatic transmission Hondas had the essentially the same four-speed automatic, derived from a GM automatic that GM considered towable.
Manufacture endorsement of flat towing involves more issues than just technology. Toyota refused to endorse flat towing of models that were technically as towable as automatic transmission Hondas, after getting hit by claims from the people who had problems.
The technical issues also include more than transmissions. Many FWD cars experience accelerated front tire wear, and sometimes accelerated wear of steering gear and front suspension components, while being towed. The suspension geometry for a front end driving and a front end in trail is not the same. To do both, a compromise is required, which is less than ideal for either purpose.
