Can You Tow an Automatic Car?
Cars with automatic transmissions make everyday driving easier and less stressful. You don’t have to worry about changing gears or stalling the engine in heavy traffic. However, when things go wrong and you need a tow, things can get quite hairy. Yes, you can get an automatic transmission vehicle towed, but not all methods are safe.
Towing an automatic car incorrectly can damage the transmission or drivetrain. Hence, knowing the right way matters. In this blog, we’ll discuss how to recover automatic vehicles safely and what to keep in mind when doing so. You’ll also learn the risks of improper towing techniques and how to avoid them. So, if you own such vehicles or plan on buying one, this article is a must-read for you.
Things to Know before Towing an Automatic Car
Towing an automatic car isn’t as straightforward as a manual, and doing it the wrong way can cause serious damage. When done incorrectly, it can severely damage the transmission. To keep the vehicle safe, here are a few key things to remember:
- Never tow with the drive wheels turning while in gear.
- Always shift into Neutral (N) before moving.
- Never leave the vehicle in Drive (D) or Park (P).
- Check your owner’s manual first, as some cars have specific limits, such as maximum towing speed or distance.
Even short-distance towing can be risky if not done correctly. If you’re unsure, don’t take chances. Instead, call an expert towing company to get your vehicle moved safely.
Can You Tow a Car with an Automatic Transmission?
Towing a car with an automatic transmission is possible, but only if you use the right method. The drivetrains on these vehicles are more sensitive than their manual counterparts. Even the slightest misstep can lead to costly damage, so it pays to have the right knowledge or hire a car towing service provider for the job.
Before you begin towing, here’s what you need to do:
- Turn the ignition on (not start) to release the shifter and power steering lock
- Shift the transmission into Neutral (N)
- Use a method that lifts the driving wheels off the ground—ideally, a flatbed tow truck
- Move slowly and avoid sharp turns during transport
When Might You Need Automatic Car Towing?
You might need automatic car towing in several situations. This includes roadside breakdowns, engine or mechanical failures, or if you’re involved in an accident. Other common reasons to get a tow include flat tyres, dead batteries, or getting stuck in mud, sand, or snow. Towing is also required when you face transmission or drivetrain issues, illegal or unsafe parking removal, long-distance vehicle transport, and even flood or water-damaged cars.
Using professional towing services ensures your ride is moved safely, preventing further damage and giving you peace of mind. Whether it’s towing a car after a breakdown or arranging a tow truck service in an emergency, quick response matters. Therefore, we recommend keeping the contact info of tow truck service or similar workshops close by when driving.
How Is Towing an Automatic Car Different?
Unlike manual transmissions, most automatics rely on the engine’s fluid pump for lubrication. If the driven wheels are in contact with the road with the engine off when towing a car, no oil circulates through the gearbox. This can quickly lead to overheating of the internal components and permanent damage.
For this reason, using the traditional wheel-lift or dolly-style car towing service is risky. However, if the vehicle manufacturer specifically approves it, there shouldn’t be a problem. That’s why it’s best to get a flatbed tow truck service to stay on the safe side when transporting an automatic vehicle.
Risks of Improper Towing
Improper towing can cause serious damage to automatic transmissions, often resulting in repairs that may cost thousands of dollars. Understanding that not all car towing methods are compatible with these vehicles helps you avoid expensive mistakes and ensures your vehicle is handled correctly. Here’s a quick overview of the risks associated with incorrect towing techniques:
| Risk | Outcome |
|---|---|
| Rolling drive wheels | Damaged torque converter |
| Long-distance dragging | Total transmission failure |
| Incorrect gear setting | Costly repairs (often $1000+) |
Always choose safe transport methods over shortcuts. Remember, the right approach protects your car and saves you from unnecessary repair bills.
Safe Methods for Towing an Automatic Car
The golden rule when towing an automatic car is simple. Never allow the drive wheels of front-wheel-drive vehicles (which include most modern models) to roll while the transmission is engaged. Failure to follow this can cause serious gearbox damage. Two of the safest towing options recommended by experts are:
Flatbed Tow Trucks
Here, the entire vehicle is lifted off the road, eliminating rolling wheels and transmission strain. This is the most reliable option, especially for luxury cars, prestige vehicles, and newer models.
Dolly System
The front two tyres are lifted while the rear wheels roll freely. This method should only be used if the manufacturer specifically approves it, as risks vary depending on the vehicle type.
In any case, you should always avoid hook-and-chain towing. It is quite outdated and can cause severe damage, even to manual cars. Hence, they are unsuitable for automatic vehicles under all conditions.
Risks of Towing an Automatic Car by Yourself
Voided warranty
Manufacturers provide strict towing guidelines in the owner’s manual. Ignoring them can void the warranty, leaving you fully responsible for transmission or drivetrain repairs.
Insurance refusal
If the towed vehicle suffers damage because it was done incorrectly, insurers may refuse to cover the costs. This leaves you with a hefty bill to be paid from your pocket.
Additional Expenses
Severe transmission damage caused by towing an automatic car the wrong way will require a costly rebuild. That’s not all. Improper towing angles or jolts can harm the drivetrain as well as other internal components. In the end, you’re looking at a complete rebuild or replacement job before you can get going again.
Choose Always Towing for Safe Automatic Car Towing in Melbourne
Whether you’ve broken down in heavy rain or peak-hour traffic, the right car towing service ensures your vehicle is transported safely to the chosen destination. That’s why you should choose Always Towing for towing your automatic car. Our 24/7 tow truck service covers the Western Suburbs of Melbourne and is reputed for quick response times. So, give us a call on 0450 343 621 or email us at always.towing22@gmail.com for details. We’re ready to get you moving again—anytime, anywhere.
FAQs
Can you tow an automatic car yourself?
Yes, it can be done, but it’s quite risky. Automatic transmissions can be damaged if towed incorrectly. Hence, it’s safer to use a professional car towing service like ours.
What is the safest way to tow an automatic car?
Using a flatbed tow truck is the safest method, as it keeps all the wheels of the car off the ground. This is a good way to prevent further damage to your ride.
What are the risks of improperly towing an automatic vehicle?
Improper towing can cause complete transmission failure, void warranties, and lead to costly repairs. Insurance companies may also refuse coverage for any damage caused by it.
When should you call Always Towing?
If your car breaks down, is involved in an accident, or you need secure transport for longer distances, give us a call. We’ll handle the legwork and deliver your car to the correct destination on time.