Towing an all-wheel drive vehicle isn’t as simple as hooking up two wheels and hitting the road. AWD systems distribute power across all four wheels through a network of components—transfer cases, center differentials, driveshafts, and sometimes electronic couplings. Towing one of these vehicles the wrong way can quietly wreck parts that cost thousands to replace.
If you own an AWD vehicle and need a tow, here’s what you need to know to protect your drivetrain.
Can You Tow an AWD Vehicle?
Yes, you can tow an AWD vehicle, but the method matters enormously. Unlike many two-wheel-drive cars, AWD vehicles often can’t be towed with two wheels on the ground and two lifted.
That’s because AWD drivetrains are engineered to keep all four wheels turning in sync. When two wheels roll freely on the pavement while the other two stay in place, the wheels on the ground can spin internal components backward, without lubrication or the engine running. That mismatch creates friction and stress the system was never built to handle.
The right towing method depends on your vehicle’s specific make, model, and drivetrain design. There’s no universal rule that applies to every AWD car or SUV.
Risks of Towing an AWD Vehicle Incorrectly
Get the towing method wrong, and the damage can range from immediate to delayed.
Transmission Damage
Uneven wheel rotation can force transmission components to turn without proper lubrication, leading to premature wear or outright failure.
Differential Stress
The center differential, responsible for splitting power between the front and rear axles, can suffer serious stress when wheels rotate at mismatched speeds. In some cases, this leads to complete differential failure.
Driveshaft Complications
Driveshafts aren’t designed to spin under towing conditions. Forcing one to rotate while disconnected from the engine can cause bending, misalignment, or failure.
Long-Term Mechanical Issues
Not all damage shows up right away. Grinding noises, vibration, dashboard warning lights, or fluid leaks can appear days or weeks after an improper tow, often after the harm is already done.
Safe Towing Methods for AWD Vehicles
Flatbed Towing
Flatbed towing is the safest option for nearly every AWD vehicle. All four wheels stay off the pavement, so nothing in the drivetrain is forced to rotate. This method is especially important if your vehicle won’t start, has a transmission issue, or has suspension or axle damage.
Dinghy Towing Limitations
Dinghy towing, or flat towing behind an RV, is rarely safe for AWD vehicles. Most manufacturers don’t approve it, and towing all four wheels on the ground without disconnecting the drivetrain can cause the same damage as a traditional hook tow.
Wheel Lift Towing Considerations
Wheel lift towing can work for some AWD vehicles, but only when dollies support the remaining wheels or the manufacturer specifically approves the method. Without dollies, you’re left with the same uneven-rotation problem as a standard tow.
Professional Towing Service Advantages
A professional towing company knows how to evaluate your vehicle’s drivetrain and choose the correct method. They’ll also have the right flatbed equipment on hand, which isn’t always true of a basic roadside assistance call.
What Your Owner’s Manual Says
Before you call for a tow, check your owner’s manual. Manufacturers often include specific towing instructions for AWD models, including whether neutral is safe to use and under what conditions, if any, a non-flatbed tow is acceptable.
Never assume shifting into neutral fully disconnects the drivetrain. Some components stay engaged regardless of gear position, and only your manufacturer’s documentation can confirm what’s safe for your specific vehicle.
Improper towing may also affect your warranty coverage. If a tow causes drivetrain damage and the repair shop determines it resulted from an improper towing method, that damage may not be covered. Check your warranty documentation or ask your dealer directly if you’re unsure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you tow an AWD car with two wheels lifted?
Generally, no. Lifting two wheels while the other two stay on the ground can cause internal components to rotate unevenly, risking transmission, differential, and driveshaft damage. Some vehicles allow limited exceptions under manufacturer-approved procedures, but this isn’t the default for most AWD vehicles.
How far can you safely tow an AWD vehicle?
There’s no “safe distance” for an unsafe towing method. Stress on the drivetrain can begin the moment the wheels start turning, so distance doesn’t reduce the risk. If the method is wrong, even a short tow can cause damage.
Will improper towing void my warranty?
It depends on your vehicle and warranty terms. Damage caused by an improper towing method may not be covered under warranty if a repair shop traces the issue back to how the vehicle was towed. Review your warranty booklet or talk to your dealer to understand your specific coverage.
Protect Your Drivetrain With the Right Tow
AWD vehicles need careful handling when it’s time for a tow. Flatbed towing remains the safest choice for most makes and models, and checking your owner’s manual before any tow can save you from costly repairs down the road.
If you need an AWD vehicle towed in Indianapolis, contact Zore’s Towing for professional service that protects your drivetrain from unnecessary damage.
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