Towing Issues: Towing Capabilities, pound vehicle, front wheel drive

Question
Hi Richard,

I have a 2001 Honda Civic.  I have had an itch to get an ATV for several years.  I was wondering if my car would be capable of towing an ATV that weighs 540 lbs, and a trailer that is 240 lbs.  A total weight of 780 lbs?  And if it can should I make any modifications to the car to help it get the job done?

Thanks,

Jack  

Answer
Well Jack, I see a problem here as I can not find any recommended towing capacity. Not to say that it will not do it. But Honda did not rate it in the specs for towing.  

Now one thing I have to say is that a light small import car with front wheel drive will have a problem with trailers attached as it will cause the rear to drop under load and that will allow the front end to lift.  This affects the steering and traction capibilities.

You can check with a trailer supply shop and see if they have anymore information on what you can do but I think it would not be recommended with the almost 800 pounds added to your 2400 pound vehicle .. You would be adding approximetly 1/3 of your total vehicle weight to it.  

Hope this helps but it looks like its not to good of an idea to attempt the trailer in my mind...