What must be done prior to flat towing a Jeep vehicle to prevent automatic transmission damage?

Before flat towing a Jeep vehicle, it's essential to turn off the engine. This is crucial for automatic transmission systems because keeping the engine running could lead to improper lubrication and overheating of the transmission while being towed. When the engine is off, the transmission pump, which relies on the engine to circulate fluid, is not operational. Consequently, the fluid does not circulate properly through the system. This lack of flow could cause severe damage to the transmission during the flat tow.

It's important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for flat towing, which often specify the need to shut off the engine to prevent unnecessary wear or damage to the transmission components. This ensures that the vehicle is being towed in a manner that protects its mechanical integrity. Therefore, ensuring the engine is off is a critical step to take before initiating the flat towing process.