My owners manual says that my 2011 MDX is not dinghy (4 wheels down flat) towable. Maybe it's becuase of the transmission or SH-AWD system - I don't know.

But, I'd like to flat tow my MDX behind a motorhome instead of buying something else that is flat towable. I've heard of people flat towing older versions of the MDX but not the current ones.

Does anyone know if Acura is just being cautious by saying it's not allowed and it actually is towable? Or are there aftermarket modification kits available that can make the 2011 MDX towable?

 

From my understanding, it's because of the SH-AWD. Since all four wheels of the MDX are able to receive power from the drivetrain, towing with wheels on the ground will ruin your transmission and possibly the all wheel drive system.

Back in the 90's, I had a Mazda 929 that was in an accident. The vehicle was rear wheel drive. The tow truck guys that towed the car, took it from the seen with the front lifted and the rear wheels dragging. Needless to say, they ruined the transmission and it was a very expensive repair. The car was never the same and I eventually had to ditch it.

With the MDX, you are not just dealing with the drivetrain (transmission), but also the SH-AWD. Ruining them at the same time can be extremely costly and void all warranties. The only suggestion I could give you is to rent a car hauler trailer. Much cheaper that fixing your MDX if something goes wrong.

In a nutshell, don't do it.