Skip to main content ↑ ↓
Topic: Towing a Toyota Camry Hybrid with a Continuously Variable Transmission (Read 1249 times) previous topic - next topic

Towing a Toyota Camry Hybrid with a Continuously Variable Transmission

We just purchased our first MH. We need to investigate the possibility of towing our 2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid. It has the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

I read some posting that basically said vehicles with the CVT might be more susceptible to damaging the CVT than vehicles with conventional automatic transmissions.

Does anyone here have any knowledge/experience with towing a Toyota Hybrid with a CVT?

Is it OK to tow it with a tow dolly instead of a tow bar? This will place the front wheels on the dolly instead of towing 4 wheels down.

Thank you in advance for your input/comments.
Morris and Janice
1997 U270 36'

Re: Towing a Toyota Camry Hybrid with a Continuously Variable Transmission

Reply #1 –
Morris,

Checking on Remco's website, the application chart for your Camry says "tow dolly only"; it cannot be towed 4-down at all.

http://www.remcotowing.com/vehicles

Tow dollies have their advantages and disadvantages.  Having space for the dolly can be a challenge at some campgrounds (and for some of us, at home as well), but it would let you take your existing car.  In some states you'll have to license the dolly.  The do add weight to your overall tow, but that shouldn't be an issue with a FT and a Camry.

Here's a link to the Motorhome mag Dingy Towing Guide which should help you make some informed choices

http://www.motorhomemagazine.com/dinghytowingguide/

Michelle

Learn every day, but especially from the experiences of others. It's cheaper!  - John C. Bogle

2000 U320 36' non-slide / WildEBeest Rescue
2003 U320

Re: Towing a Toyota Camry Hybrid with a Continuously Variable Transmission

Reply #2 –
http://www.fmca.com/motorhome/towing/204-towing-index

FMCA has a complete list of cars you can 4 wheel down...

Also,  check with a dealer as some can be towed with minor alterations..
We are only strangers until we meet; however, some of us are stranger than others

Re: Towing a Toyota Camry Hybrid with a Continuously Variable Transmission

Reply #3 –
If you have not done so already, check your owners manual.  Many are starting to provide this information there.
I suggest you get definitive information from Toyota (owners manual, email or call Toyota direct).  I wouldn't trust verbal information from the dealership.
I've been towing my 2004 Honda Civic Hybrid with CVT since it was new with no problems.  I had to choose the Honda over the Prius because it could be towed 4 wheels down.  Your car might be different but you need to get a solid answer from Toyota.
John Fitzgerald
1991 U300 (SAI) Side Aisle Island Bed 40'
Detroit 6V92 with Allison Retarder
Meridian (Boise), Idaho

Re: Towing a Toyota Camry Hybrid with a Continuously Variable Transmission

Reply #4 –
Getting CORRECT information from the manufacturer (FORD) has proven to be impossible and incorrect.

The ONLY correct info came from remco, when I told them the model I had, they informed me it had no limits on towing with all wheels on ground any speed or distance.  Ford factory says NO.

Not a clue about the Toyota line, but would check with the remco folks also

Towed it over 5K miles with -0- issues, so who do I trust ?      Simple guess !

FWIW

Dave

Re: Towing a Toyota Camry Hybrid with a Continuously Variable Transmission

Reply #5 –
Back in the 70's jeep cJ's came with owners manuals that said on page 1 "not intended for off road use". After they had the problem if them rolling onto occupants. It's all about the liability.
 
Greg
 
1995 280 se