You can tow a Honda Element behind a motorhome, but the method depends on the Element’s transmission. For most automatics, flat-towing (all four wheels down) is not recommended; the safer options are a tow dolly (front wheels on the dolly for FWD Elements) or towing on a trailer. Manual transmission Elements may be towable in some cases, but you should verify the exact year and procedure with Honda and the owner’s manual before attempting it.
As RV travelers weigh their options, the question often comes down to transmission type, year, and the towing equipment you’re willing to use. Below is a practical guide to the common approaches, followed by cautions and contingency steps.
Towing options for a Honda Element
First, consider the drivetrain and your comfort with different tow setups. The following options cover the typical paths people take when towing an Element behind a motorhome.
- Tow dolly (two wheels on the ground): Suitable for front-wheel-drive Elements. The front wheels sit on the dolly while the rear wheels stay on the road. This method minimizes transmission wear and is widely supported for many FWD Elemen ts, provided you follow proper setup (engine off, transmission in neutral, etc.).
- Full trailer or car carrier: A trailer supports the entire vehicle and avoids flat-towing the transmission altogether. This is often preferred for AWD/automatic models or if you want the simplest connection to a motorhome’s towing system.
- Flat-towing 4-down with a manual Element: Some manual-transmission Element models can be flat-towed if the manufacturer allows it and you follow the exact steps in the owner's manual. Always confirm for your specific year and configuration before attempting.
Conclusion: For most Element owners, a tow dolly or trailer is the safest and most widely approved method, especially with automatic transmissions. Flat-towing four wheels down is typically not recommended unless your exact year/manual explicitly permits it.
Model-year and transmission caveats
Automatic transmissions
In general, Honda’s guidance on Element automatics emphasizes caution with flat-towing four wheels down behind a motorhome. Repeated rotation of the transmission’s internal components while the engine is off can cause damage. If you’re towing an automatic Element, a tow dolly or full trailer is usually the recommended approach, and you should consult the owner’s manual and Honda support for your exact year and trim to confirm the safest method.
Manual transmissions
Manual Element models can sometimes be flat-towed behind a motorhome, but this depends on the specific year and Honda’s official guidance. If your Element’s manual allows 4-down towing, you must follow the prescribed procedure precisely (engine off, transmission in neutral, proper ignition position, and any required disconnects). When in doubt, or if you plan to tow frequently, using a dolly or trailer remains the safer, more universally accepted option.
Practical safety and setup considerations
Whichever method you choose, ensure you meet these general safety and compliance steps. Always reference your owner’s manual for the exact steps and any model-year caveats.
- Check towing capacity: Confirm your motorhome’s towing limits and ensure the combined weight does not exceed legal or manufacturer-recommended limits.
- Lighting and braking: Wire in proper brake lights and turn signals for the towed vehicle and verify all safety chains and tie-downs are secure.
- Wheel restraints and alignment: Use appropriate straps or wheel chocks, and ensure the towed vehicle is properly aligned and immobilized on the chosen platform (dolly or trailer).
- Engine and accessories: Follow the recommended settings (engine off, keys in the correct position, parking brake managed as advised) to prevent unintended damage.
- Insurance and legality: Check local laws and your insurer’s requirements for towed vehicles behind a motorhome.
In short, planning your configuration ahead of trips and consulting official guidance reduces risk and improves safety on the road.
Summary
The Honda Element can ride along behind a motorhome, but the right approach hinges on transmission and year. Automatics are typically not flat-towable with all four wheels down; a tow dolly or trailer is the standard workaround. Manual transmissions may permit 4-down flat towing under the exact guidance of Honda for your model year, but many owners will opt for a dolly or trailer to avoid potential damage. Always verify with the owner’s manual and Honda support for your specific vehicle, and follow safe towing practices and local regulations.