How To Tow Awd Car

Seeing your AWD car stranded on the side of the road is never a good feeling. The sinking realization that you might need to tow it can quickly turn to anxiety, especially if you're unsure about the proper procedures. Towing an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) vehicle isn't as straightforward as towing a front-wheel or rear-wheel drive car, and getting it wrong can lead to serious, and expensive, damage. But don't worry! This guide will walk you through the safe and correct ways to tow your AWD car, ensuring you protect your investment.

Understanding AWD Towing Challenges

The fundamental challenge when towing an AWD car lies in the fact that all four wheels are connected to the drivetrain. Unlike 2WD vehicles where you can lift the driven wheels off the ground, towing an AWD vehicle with all four wheels on the ground can cause significant damage to the transfer case, transmission, and differentials. These components are designed to work in a coordinated manner, and forcing them to rotate at different speeds (which happens when only two wheels are turning freely while the others are on the ground) can lead to internal stress and eventual failure. Ignoring this can result in needing to do expensive drivetrain repairs. So, what are the options for avoiding this?

The Dangers of Incorrect Towing Methods

Incorrectly towing an AWD car can result in a range of serious and costly problems. Let's delve deeper into some of the potential consequences:

1. Transfer Case Damage: The transfer case is a crucial component in an AWD system, responsible for distributing power to both the front and rear axles. Towing with all four wheels on the ground can overload the transfer case, leading to overheating, cracked housings, and damaged gears.
2. Transmission Issues: The transmission is another critical part of the drivetrain. Forcing it to rotate while the engine is off can damage internal components and cause premature wear. The damage can be amplified for automatic transmissions, which rely on the engine-driven pump for lubrication.
3. Differential Problems: Differentials allow wheels on the same axle to rotate at different speeds, which is necessary when turning. When towing with all four wheels on the ground, the differentials can be subjected to excessive strain, leading to wear, noise, and eventual failure.
4. Tire Wear: Even if the drivetrain components are not immediately damaged, towing an AWD car with all four wheels on the ground can cause uneven tire wear. This is because the tires will be dragged along the ground, scrubbing against the pavement and causing flat spots or premature wear.

Fact: According to a AAA study, drivetrain repairs can range from $2,000 to $8,000 depending on the severity of the damage and the vehicle model. Avoiding improper towing methods can save you a substantial amount of money.

Safe Methods for Towing an AWD Car

So, how do you safely tow an AWD car? There are two primary methods that are generally recommended, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Flatbed Towing: The Preferred Method

Flatbed towing, also known as rollback towing, is generally the safest and most recommended method for towing an AWD vehicle. Here's why:

1. All Wheels Off the Ground: As the name suggests, a flatbed tow truck has a flat platform that tilts down to ground level. The AWD car is then winched or driven onto the platform, securing all four wheels off the ground. This completely eliminates any strain on the drivetrain components.
2. No Drivetrain Rotation: Because the wheels are not in contact with the road, the drivetrain remains stationary throughout the towing process. This prevents any potential damage to the transfer case, transmission, or differentials.
3. Suitable for All AWD Vehicles: Flatbed towing is suitable for all types of AWD vehicles, regardless of their size, weight, or drivetrain configuration.

How to prepare for flatbed towing:

1. Ensure the car is in neutral (both transmission and transfer case, if applicable).
2. Release the parking brake.
3. Make sure the steering wheel is unlocked, if possible (this may require the key to be in the ignition).
4. Remove any personal belongings from the vehicle.
5. Document the car's condition with photos before the tow begins.

While flatbed towing is the safest option, it can be slightly more expensive than other towing methods. However, the cost is often justified by the peace of mind and the assurance of protecting your AWD vehicle from damage.

Using a Dolly: A Possible Alternative (With Caveats)

A wheel dolly is a device that lifts two wheels off the ground while the other two wheels remain on the pavement. While not as ideal as flatbed towing, using a dollymaybe an option for towing an AWD car under specific circumstances. However, it's crucial to proceed with extreme caution and follow these guidelines meticulously:

1. Consult Your Owner's Manual: The most important step is to consult your vehicle's owner's manual. Some manufacturers explicitly prohibit towing their AWD vehicles with a dolly. Others may allow it only under very specific conditions, such as limited distance or speed. The owner's manual will provide the most accurate and reliable information for your specific vehicle.
2. Disconnecting the Driveshaft (If Permitted): If the owner's manual allows dolly towing, it may require disconnecting the driveshaft that connects the axles of wheels that will remain on the ground. This is a complex procedure that should only be performed by a qualified mechanic. Disconnecting the driveshaft effectively converts the AWD system to a 2WD system for the duration of the tow. Important: Failure to disconnect the driveshaft when required can cause severe damage.
3. Front or Rear Towing: If disconnecting the driveshaft is not possible or practical, determine whether to tow the vehicle with the front wheels or rear wheels on the dolly. This decision should be based on the information in your owner's manual or the advice of a qualified mechanic. Typically, if the front wheels are on the ground, the steering wheel must be secured in a straight-ahead position.
4. Speed and Distance Limitations: Even if dolly towing is permitted and the driveshaft is disconnected (or it's determined which set of wheels should be off the ground), there will likely be strict limitations on the maximum towing speed and distance. These limitations are designed to minimize the risk of damage to the drivetrain. Adhere to these limits religiously.

Quote: As stated by one experienced mechanic, "Whenever a customer comes in after having their AWD towed with a dolly, and without taking necessary precautions, the result is usually a very unhappy customer and a hefty repair bill."

Why Dolly Towing is Riskier for AWD Cars

Even with the proper precautions, dolly towing is inherently riskier for AWD cars than flatbed towing. The reasons for this include:

1. Potential for Human Error: The process of disconnecting the driveshaft (if required) is complex and requires specialized tools and knowledge. Even a minor mistake can lead to serious damage.
2. Uneven Wear: With two wheels on the ground and rotating, there is still a risk of uneven tire wear and strain on the differentials, especially if the distance is significant.
3. Lack of Lubrication: With the engine off, some drivetrain components may not receive adequate lubrication, which can contribute to wear and tear.

Case Study: A customer decided to save money by towing his AWD SUV with a dolly instead of a flatbed. He failed to disconnect the driveshaft. After towing for only 50 miles, his transfer case seized, requiring a complete replacement costing over $3,000. This illustrates the importance of following the manufacturer's recommendations and the potential consequences of improper towing.

When in Doubt, Choose Flatbed Towing

Given the complexities and potential risks associated with dolly towing an AWD vehicle, the best advice is to err on the side of caution and choose flatbed towing whenever possible. The added expense is a small price to pay for the peace of mind knowing that you are protecting your car from potentially catastrophic damage. When you need to tow an AWD car, don't risk it; go flatbed.

Important Considerations Before Towing Any Vehicle

Regardless of the towing method, there are some general considerations that apply to towing any vehicle, including AWD cars:

1. Proper Towing Equipment: Ensure that the tow truck or towing vehicle is equipped with the appropriate towing equipment, including safety chains, lights, and mirrors.
2. Secure the Vehicle: Double-check that the vehicle is securely fastened to the tow truck or dolly before starting the journey.
3. Drive Carefully: Drive slowly and cautiously, avoiding sudden acceleration, braking, and sharp turns.
4. Follow Traffic Laws: Obey all traffic laws and regulations related to towing.
5. Insurance Coverage: Verify that you have adequate insurance coverage for towing.

Conclusion: Protect Your AWD Investment

Towing an AWD car requires careful consideration and adherence to the proper procedures. While dolly towingmaybe an option in certain situations, flatbed towing is generally the safest and most recommended method. Always consult your owner's manual and, when in doubt, seek the advice of a qualified mechanic or towing professional. By taking the necessary precautions, you can protect your AWD vehicle from costly damage and ensure a safe and hassle-free towing experience. Knowing how to tow your AWD car correctly can save you thousands of dollars and plenty of headaches.