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Understand: Can You Tow An AWD Car On 2 Wheels & Why?
Can you tow an AWD car on 2 wheels? No, almost always you cannot tow an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) car using a tow dolly that lifts only two wheels off the ground. Doing so can cause very serious and expensive damage to the car’s drivetrain parts. These parts include the transmission, transfer case, and differentials. This is because AWD systems connect all four wheels, and towing on two wheels forces some parts to spin while others stay still, leading to friction, heat, and major problems.
Grasping All-Wheel Drive Systems
Before we talk about towing, let’s quickly look at what AWD means. AWD stands for All-Wheel Drive. It is a system in a car that sends power from the engine to all four wheels all the time, or when the car’s computer decides it needs more grip. This helps the car drive better on slippery roads like snow or mud.
Think of it this way:
* Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) cars send power mainly to the front wheels.
* Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) cars send power mainly to the back wheels.
* All-Wheel Drive (AWD) cars send power to all four wheels.
An AWD system uses many linked parts. These parts work together to move the car. They include the transmission, a transfer case, and front and rear differentials. All these parts are connected. They make sure all four wheels can get power.
How Towing Impacts a Car’s Drivetrain
When a car is driving normally, all the parts in the drivetrain are moving together as they should. Oils inside these parts keep them cool and running smoothly.
When you tow a car, things change. If you lift only two wheels, the wheels on the ground can still spin. If the car has a system that connects all wheels, those spinning wheels on the ground will try to turn the connected parts inside the car.
In a FWD or RWD car, lifting the drive wheels (front for FWD, back for RWD) disconnects the spinning wheels from the main power-sending parts. The wheels that are left on the ground are just rolling freely. This is why you can sometimes tow a FWD car backward on a tow dolly (lifting the front wheels) or an RWD car forward on a tow dolly (lifting the back wheels). But even this depends on the specific car model and manufacturer rules.
Why Towing an AWD Car on Two Wheels is Risky
Now, let’s talk about AWD cars again. The main problem with using a two-wheel tow dolly on an AWD car is how the system links everything.
Drivetrain Damage Towing One Axle
An AWD system is designed to send power to all wheels. The parts that do this (like the transfer case and differentials) are always connected to the wheels, even when the car is not running.
If you lift only the front wheels onto a tow dolly, the back wheels are still on the ground. As you tow the car, the back wheels spin. Because the AWD system connects everything, these spinning back wheels force parts inside the car to turn.
The same problem happens if you lift the back wheels. The front wheels on the ground will spin and turn connected parts.
AWD Towing Damage Risk Explained Simply
Think of the AWD system like a chain connecting all four wheels. If you pull on one end of the chain (the wheels on the ground) but hold the other end still (the wheels on the dolly), you put huge stress on the middle of the chain.
When towing an AWD car on two wheels, the parts inside the transfer case and differentials are forced to spin unnaturally. They may spin without proper lubrication or cooling. This rapid, unlubricated movement creates a lot of heat and friction.
This heat and friction can quickly wear down or break gears, bearings, and other important parts inside the drivetrain. This is the main AWD towing damage risk. It can lead to a complete breakdown of the transmission, transfer case, or differentials.
Why Not Tow AWD On Two Wheels?
Here are the key reasons why you should avoid towing an AWD car on only two wheels:
- Connected System: The AWD system links front and rear axles. Lifting just one axle doesn’t break this connection.
- Forced Rotation: Wheels on the ground are forced to spin as the car is towed.
- Internal Parts Spinning: Because of the connection, the spinning wheels on the ground force internal drivetrain parts (in the transfer case and differentials) to spin.
- Lack of Lubrication/Cooling: These parts are designed to be lubricated and cooled when the car is driving normally. Towing this way means the engine is off, and the oil pump isn’t working. So, the parts spin without the oil they need.
- Heat and Friction: Spinning without oil causes extreme heat and friction.
- Wear and Breakage: This heat and friction quickly damage or destroy gears, bearings, and seals.
- Expensive Repairs: Repairing or replacing these parts is very costly. It often costs thousands of dollars.
In short, using a two-wheel tow dolly on an AWD car is like trying to turn a complex machine backward without its oil. It will likely break.
Specific Components at Risk
Let’s look a bit more at the parts that get damaged when you tow an AWD car the wrong way.
Transmission
While the transmission sends power from the engine, it’s also connected to the rest of the drivetrain. In some AWD systems, forcing the wheels to spin while the transmission is not engaged (because the engine is off) can still cause internal damage, especially if the transmission fluid isn’t moving.
Transfer Case
This is a central box in many AWD cars. It splits power between the front and rear axles. When you tow on two wheels, the transfer case is often forced to spin parts internally in a way it’s not designed for when the engine is off. This is a primary point for drivetrain damage towing one axle. The parts grind and overheat without oil flow.
Differentials
There’s a differential at the front and usually one at the back. These allow wheels on the same axle to spin at different speeds (like when turning). They are also connected through the transfer case in an AWD system. Towing on two wheels can force these differentials to work or spin improperly, again without needed lubrication, leading to damage.
Towing Methods and AWD Suitability
Not all towing methods are the same. Some are safe for AWD cars, while others are not. Choosing the right method is crucial for safe towing for AWD vehicles.
Let’s compare the common methods.
Two-Wheel Tow Dolly
- How it works: Lifts only the front or back wheels off the ground. The other two wheels stay on the ground and roll.
- Suitability for AWD: NOT SUITABLE. As explained earlier, this method causes tow dolly AWD issues. It forces internal drivetrain parts to spin without lubrication, causing major damage. This method is a primary cause of drivetrain damage towing one axle for AWD cars.
- When NOT to use: Always avoid using a two-wheel tow dolly for AWD cars unless the manufacturer specifically says it’s okay and provides special instructions (which is extremely rare).
Four-Wheel Flat Towing (Towing “Four Down”)
- How it works: The towed car has all four wheels on the ground, just like driving. A tow bar connects the front of the towed car to the back of the tow vehicle.
- Suitability for AWD: MAYBE, but often NOT recommended or requires complex steps. Some vehicles, often specific RVs or SUVs, are designed for this kind of towing. However, most modern AWD cars are not built for flat towing.
- To flat tow safely, you usually need to disconnect the drivetrain. This might involve putting the transmission and transfer case in a special neutral mode or even physically disconnecting a driveshaft.
- Many AWD systems cannot be put into a true neutral state that allows all four wheels to spin freely without forcing internal parts to turn without lubrication.
- Flat towing AWD limitations include the risk of damage if the system isn’t properly disconnected, the need for special towing equipment (like a braking system for the towed car), and the fact that most car manufacturers do not approve flat towing for their AWD models.
- When to use: Only if your car’s owner’s manual specifically states that flat towing is allowed for your exact model and year, and you follow all the manual’s instructions precisely (like putting the transmission/transfer case in a specific mode). If the manual doesn’t say you can, do not flat tow your AWD car.
Flatbed Trailer Towing
- How it works: The entire car is loaded onto a flat trailer, which is then towed by another vehicle. All four of the towed car’s wheels are off the ground.
- Suitability for AWD: BEST AND SAFEST METHOD. When a car is on a flatbed trailer, none of its wheels are touching the ground. This means no part of the drivetrain is forced to spin. The car is simply resting on the trailer. This prevents any forced, unlubricated movement within the transmission, transfer case, or differentials.
- When to use: This is the proper method tow AWD. It is the best way tow all wheel drive vehicles to prevent damage. It is considered safe towing for AWD vehicles. Use a flatbed trailer whenever you need to tow an AWD car, especially over any significant distance.
Enclosed Trailer Towing
- How it works: Similar to a flatbed trailer, but the trailer has walls and a roof, protecting the car from weather and road debris.
- Suitability for AWD: SAFE METHOD. Like flatbed towing, the car is completely off the ground, so there is no risk of drivetrain damage.
- When to use: A safe and often preferred method, especially for valuable or classic cars.
Here is a simple table comparing the methods for AWD cars:
| Towing Method | Lifts Wheels Off Ground? | Safe for AWD? | Why? | Risk of Damage? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Two-Wheel Tow Dolly | 2 wheels off | NO | Forces connected AWD parts to spin without lubrication. | VERY HIGH |
| Four-Wheel Flat Towing | 0 wheels off | USUALLY NO | Most AWD systems cannot be fully disconnected for towing this way. | HIGH (if not approved) |
| Flatbed Trailer Towing | 4 wheels off | YES | No wheels spin, drivetrain parts do not move unnaturally. | VERY LOW |
| Enclosed Trailer Towing | 4 wheels off | YES | No wheels spin, drivetrain parts do not move unnaturally. | VERY LOW |
Manufacturer Recommendations AWD Towing
The single most important thing you must do before towing any car, especially an AWD one, is to check the car’s owner’s manual.
Car manufacturers design the AWD systems differently. What might be okay for one car (though rare for two-wheel towing) could destroy another.
The owner’s manual for your specific car model and year will have a section on towing. This section will tell you:
- If the car can be towed.
- What towing methods are allowed (flatbed, flat towing, etc.).
- If flat towing is allowed, what steps you must follow (like putting the transmission in a specific neutral, disconnecting a driveshaft).
- If any limited towing is allowed (like short distance, low speed). (Again, this is extremely rare for AWD on two wheels).
Ignoring the manufacturer recommendations AWD towing can lead to voiding your warranty if damage happens. Plus, it leads to that expensive damage we talked about.
Always read the manual first! If the manual says “Do not tow this vehicle with the drive wheels on the ground,” and your car is AWD, this means you cannot use a two-wheel tow dolly or flat tow it unless specifically noted otherwise with detailed steps.
AWD Transmission Protection Towing
Some people might ask about special procedures for AWD transmission protection towing. Are there ways to make two-wheel towing safe for AWD?
For most modern AWD cars, the answer is generally no. There are usually no simple procedures you can do yourself to make two-wheel dolly towing safe.
- Putting the transmission in neutral: This helps in FWD/RWD cars sometimes, but in AWD, the neutral in the transmission often doesn’t disconnect the link all the way through the transfer case to all four wheels.
- Removing driveshafts: Some older or specific AWD vehicles might allow you to remove the driveshafts connecting the transmission/transfer case to the axles. This would protect the drivetrain. However, this is a complex job requiring tools and know-how. It’s not something you can quickly do by the side of the road. It’s also often not practical or recommended by the manufacturer.
The systems are integrated. The simplest and most effective form of AWD transmission protection towing is to make sure the wheels don’t spin if the car is not running and properly prepared. This is best achieved by lifting the entire vehicle onto a flatbed.
The High Cost of Getting it Wrong
The AWD towing damage risk is not just a minor issue. It can lead to major repairs.
- Replacing a damaged transfer case can cost thousands of dollars.
- Repairing or replacing a transmission or differentials can also be very expensive.
- Damage caused by improper towing is usually not covered by your car’s warranty or standard insurance.
So, trying to save money by using a cheaper two-wheel tow dolly instead of a flatbed can end up costing you much, much more in the long run. It’s a classic case of “penny wise, pound foolish.”
Summarizing Safe Towing for AWD Vehicles
Based on how AWD systems work and the risks involved, here are the key points for safe towing for AWD vehicles:
- Check Your Owner’s Manual: This is the absolute first step and the most important one. It contains the specific rules for your car.
- Avoid Two-Wheel Tow Dollies: Unless the manual explicitly gives specific instructions allowing it (which is very rare for AWD), do not tow an AWD car with just two wheels on the ground. This is the main source of tow dolly AWD issues and leads to drivetrain damage towing one axle. It clearly shows why not tow AWD on two wheels.
- Be Cautious with Flat Towing: Only flat tow if the manual says it is okay and you follow all steps precisely. Be aware of flat towing AWD limitations.
- Use a Flatbed Trailer: This is almost always the proper method tow AWD and the best way tow all wheel drive. It keeps all wheels off the ground, preventing any towing-related drivetrain damage. This method provides the best AWD transmission protection towing.
- Call a Professional: If you are unsure how to tow your AWD car safely, call a professional towing service. Make sure they understand your car is AWD and confirm they will use a flatbed truck.
Common Questions About Towing AWD Cars
Here are some questions people often ask about towing AWD cars.
FAQ
Q: Can I tow my AWD car a short distance on a tow dolly?
A: Most car manufacturers say no, even for short distances. The damage can start happening quickly as the unlubricated parts heat up from forced spinning. The risk of AWD towing damage risk is still high. It’s better to wait for a flatbed or find another solution.
Q: My AWD system is part-time, does that change things?
A: Some vehicles have systems where the driver can select 2WD mode, or the system only engages all four wheels when needed. However, even in 2WD mode, parts of the AWD system (like the transfer case or front/rear differentials) are still connected. Forcing one axle to spin while the other is on the ground can still cause damage. Always check the manual. Assume it’s unsafe unless the manual says otherwise with specific steps for towing.
Q: What if I put the transmission in neutral?
A: Putting the transmission in neutral usually helps disconnect the engine from the wheels. But in most AWD systems, putting the transmission in neutral does not disconnect the link between the front and rear axles through the transfer case. The wheels on the ground will still force the connected drivetrain parts to spin without lubrication. This is why you need a flatbed.
Q: Does it matter if I lift the front or back wheels on the dolly?
A: For most AWD systems, it doesn’t matter. Lifting either the front or the back wheels will leave the other two on the ground. These wheels on the ground will spin as you tow, and this spinning forces connected parts in the drivetrain (transfer case, differentials) to turn without lubrication, causing damage. This confirms why not tow AWD on two wheels.
Q: Can I rent a tow dolly to move my AWD car?
A: Rental companies often have rules about what kind of cars can use their dollies. They typically do not allow AWD vehicles on two-wheel dollies because of the high risk of damage. Trying to tow an AWD car on a dolly against their rules could make you responsible for expensive repairs.
Q: What if my manual says flat towing is OK?
A: If your manual specifically permits flat towing (towing with all four wheels on the ground) for your exact model, then you can do it. BUT you must follow every single step the manual lists perfectly. This might include putting the transmission in a special mode, putting the transfer case in neutral, setting up a supplemental braking system, etc. If you miss a step, you risk damage. Manufacturer recommendations AWD towing are very important here.
Q: My vehicle is an SUV with AWD, does that make a difference?
A: It depends entirely on the specific make, model, and year of the SUV and its AWD system. SUVs with advanced AWD systems face the same risks as AWD cars when towed improperly. Always refer to the owner’s manual.
Q: Is a car carrier (flatbed) expensive to use?
A: Using a flatbed trailer or calling a tow truck with a flatbed is generally more expensive than renting a tow dolly. However, it is significantly less expensive than repairing or replacing a damaged transmission, transfer case, or differentials caused by improper towing. It’s the cost of safe towing for AWD vehicles.
Bringing It All Together
Towing an All-Wheel Drive car needs careful thought. The way AWD systems connect all four wheels means you cannot just lift two wheels and go.
Putting an AWD car on a two-wheel tow dolly is a big risk. It can easily lead to serious drivetrain damage towing one axle. This happens because parts inside the car are forced to spin without the oil they need, causing them to wear out or break. This is the main AWD towing damage risk. It explains clearly why not tow AWD on two wheels.
The proper method tow AWD vehicle is almost always to put the entire car onto a flatbed trailer or use a tow truck with a flatbed. This keeps all the car’s wheels off the ground. With no wheels spinning, the parts inside the drivetrain stay still and safe. This is the best way tow all wheel drive cars to ensure safe towing for AWD vehicles and provide AWD transmission protection towing.
Always, always check your car’s owner’s manual first. It has the final word on how to safely tow your specific vehicle model. Don’t guess, and don’t take chances that could lead to very costly repairs. Choose the safe method: put it on a flatbed.