A customer brought their AWD SUV into my garage the other day and asked, “What happens if you tow an all wheel drive car?” It’s a question I hear all the time, and for good reason. Tow it the wrong way, and you could damage the driveshaft, differential, or transmission—repairs that get expensive fast.
Knowing the right way to move an AWD vehicle matters more than most people realize. It keeps your car safe, reliable, and performing well. I’ve replaced plenty of parts after careless towing, and every time it reinforces the same lesson: a little caution up front can prevent major headaches later.
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What Is All-Wheel Drive and Why Towing It Wrong Is a Big Deal
All-wheel drive, or AWD, means power gets sent to all four wheels, unlike front- or rear-wheel drive setups where only two wheels do the work. It’s fantastic for traction in places like the snowy Midwest or rainy Pacific Northwest, but it complicates things when your car needs a lift.
In most AWD systems—think full-time setups in Subarus or variable ones in Hondas—the components like differentials, transfer cases, and driveshafts are always connected. That means if the wheels are turning without the engine running, it’s like forcing the whole system to grind against itself.
So, what happens if you tow an all wheel drive car with wheels on the ground? The short answer: chaos in the drivetrain. Without the engine lubricating things, parts overheat, fluids break down, and you risk shearing gears or burning out clutches. I’ve pulled apart transmissions that looked like they’d been through a blender after a bad tow.
Symptoms show up quick—strange noises like whining or grinding, vibrations, or even the car refusing to shift properly once it’s back on the road. In extreme cases, tires can skid and wear unevenly, or the whole system locks up. Trust me, ignoring this isn’t worth the risk; it could void your warranty too if the manufacturer spots improper towing damage.
From a safety standpoint, a damaged AWD system means less control on the road, which is no joke in heavy traffic or bad weather. And cost-wise? Repairs can run from $1,500 for minor fixes to over $5,000 for a full differential rebuild. I remember tearing down a Volkswagen Tiguan that got towed wrong—owner was out $4,200, and that was on the low end.
Tools and Equipment You’ll Need for Safe AWD Towing
If you’re in a pinch and need to tow your AWD car yourself—say, moving it across your driveway or to a nearby shop—don’t wing it. Most times, calling a pro is smarter, but if DIY is your only option, gear up right. You’ll need a flatbed trailer or a full set of tow dollies to keep all wheels off the pavement. I’ve used U-Haul’s auto transport trailers for this; they’re sturdy and fit most mid-size AWD vehicles like the Toyota RAV4.
Other essentials: Heavy-duty tow straps or chains rated for your car’s weight (check your owner’s manual—most AWD sedans are around 3,500-4,000 pounds). Wheel chocks to secure it once loaded, and safety gear like gloves, eye protection, and reflective vests if you’re on the roadside. If you’re disconnecting driveshafts—a trick for some older models—you’ll want a socket set, jack stands, and penetrating oil to loosen bolts.
But fair warning: That’s advanced stuff. I botched my first driveshaft removal on an old Ford Explorer and ended up with oil everywhere. Learn from my mess—always work on a level surface and double-check torque specs.
For everyday owners, the best “tool” is your phone to call a reputable tow service that knows AWD protocols. Look for ones certified by AAA or with flatbed trucks in their fleet.
Step-by-Step Guide to Properly Towing an AWD Vehicle
If your AWD car breaks down, here’s how to handle towing without turning it into a scrap heap. This is based on what I’ve done countless times in the shop, but always consult your manual first—models vary.
First, assess the situation. Park safely off the road, turn on hazards, and set your emergency brake. If it’s an automatic, shift to neutral if possible, but don’t start towing yet. Call a tow truck and specify it’s AWD—insist on a flatbed. If they’re using a wheel-lift, make sure they have dollies for the other wheels.
If you’re DIY towing a short distance (under 5 miles, slow speed), use tow dollies. Step one: Jack up the front or rear (depending on your setup) and slide dollies under the wheels not being towed. Secure with straps. For full safety, load onto a flatbed trailer: Drive or winch the car up the ramps slowly, keeping it centered. Chock the wheels and strap it down at the frame points—never the suspension.
Safety note: Always disconnect the battery to prevent electrical issues, and wear gloves to avoid pinched fingers. If disconnecting the driveshaft, label the parts for reassembly. I once forgot and spent an extra hour figuring it out. Go slow—under 35 mph—and stop every few miles to check straps. If anything feels off, stop immediately.
For long hauls, flatbed is non-negotiable. It’ll cost $100-300 depending on distance, but it’s cheaper than repairs.
Common Mistakes When Towing AWD Cars and How to Dodge Them
Oh man, where do I start? The biggest blunder is treating an AWD like a two-wheel drive car. Folks call any old tow truck, and the driver hooks up the front or rear wheels, leaving the others dragging. What happens if you tow an all wheel drive car this way? The unbound wheels spin the drivetrain without lube, overheating everything. I’ve seen center diffs seize up solid after just 20 miles.
Another mistake: Towing in park instead of neutral. This locks the transmission, causing tires to skid and potentially snapping axles. I did this once on a customer’s Acura MDX—thankfully caught it quick, but the tire wear was brutal.
Forgetting to check the manual is huge too. Some AWD systems, like part-time 4WD in trucks, can be towed differently, but full-time AWD? No chances. And don’t cheap out on equipment—weak straps can snap, leading to accidents.
To avoid these: Educate yourself before you need it. Snap a photo of your manual’s towing section. When the tow arrives, watch them work and ask questions. If it feels wrong, say no. Better a delay than damage.
Pro Tips from My Garage Experience
If your AWD is a Subaru with symmetrical AWD, they’re tough but still hate improper tows—always flatbed. For Audis or BMWs with xDrive, short tows might be okay if you disconnect the battery and put it in neutral, but I wouldn’t risk it over 10 miles.
A shop secret: Use synthetic fluids in your diffs and transfer case—they handle heat better if things go sideways. I switched my own WRX to Amsoil years ago, and it’s saved me headaches.
If you’re trailering often, invest in a transmission cooler. It keeps fluids from boiling during stress. And always carry a basic roadside kit with flares and a phone charger—prevention beats towing any day.
One more: If damage happens, document everything. Photos, tow receipts—insurance might cover it if the tow company goofed.
DIY Towing vs. Calling a Professional Service: What’s Best?
DIY towing an AWD? Possible for short moves, like from garage to street, but pros are almost always better. You’ve got the tools and know-how? Go for it with dollies or a trailer, but factor in time and risk. I DIY’d my Jeep once to save $150, but it took half a day and a buddy’s help.
Pros bring expertise—good ones know AWD quirks and have the right rigs. In urban areas like LA or NYC, traffic makes DIY dangerous. Cost: $75-200 for a local tow, vs. potential thousands in damage if you mess up.
If it’s more than a mile or you’re unsure, call pros. Services like AAA specialize in this—worth the membership for peace of mind.
Maintenance Tips to Prevent Needing a Tow in the First Place
The best tow is the one you avoid. Keep your AWD humming with regular checks. Change differential and transfer case fluids every 30,000 miles—I’ve seen neglected ones gum up and cause breakdowns.
Tire rotations every 5,000 miles are key; uneven wear stresses the system. In cold climates, use winter tires to avoid slips that lead to tows.
Inspect CV joints and boots quarterly—cracks let grit in, leading to failures. I check mine with a flashlight while changing oil.
Drive smart: Avoid aggressive launches that wear components. And get an OBD scanner for early warnings—caught a sensor issue on my Outback before it stranded me.
Wrapping It Up: Stay Safe and Keep Rolling
What happens if you tow an all wheel drive car the wrong way can wreck your wallet and your ride, but with the right knowledge, it’s avoidable. Remember: Flatbed first, check your manual, and don’t cut corners.
By following these steps, you’ll protect that AWD performance and save on repairs. Get out there, tackle your car care with confidence, but always prioritize safety—gloves on, eyes open.
Keep a laminated card in your glovebox with your model’s towing specs. It’s saved me more than once when roadside help showed up clueless.
FAQ
Can I tow my AWD car myself for a short distance?
Sure, but only with all wheels off the ground using dollies or a trailer. Keep it under 10 miles and slow—any dragging risks drivetrain damage. I’ve done it, but pros are safer for anything longer.
What are the signs of towing damage in an AWD vehicle?
Look for grinding noises, vibrations, or difficulty shifting. Tires might show skid marks too. If it happens, get a mechanic to inspect ASAP—early fixes are cheaper than full rebuilds.
How much does it cost to repair AWD towing damage?
It varies, but expect $1,500-$5,000 for transmission or diff work, up to $8,000 in bad cases. I once quoted $3,200 for a Honda CR-V—insurance covered it since the tow company admitted fault.
Should I use a flatbed for every AWD tow?
Absolutely, it’s the gold standard. Wheel-lifts with dollies work in a pinch, but flatbeds eliminate risk. In my experience, it’s worth the extra $50 to avoid headaches.
How often should I check my AWD system’s fluids?
Every oil change, peek at levels, and fully replace every 30,000 miles. Use manufacturer-spec fluids—I’ve seen off-brand stuff cause slips in wet weather.
