No, you generally cannot safely use a standard tow dolly to transport an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) car. Doing so risks severe damage to the vehicle’s driveline. While some exceptions might exist with specialized equipment or specific vehicle configurations, the vast majority of AWD cars require different towing methods for damage-free towing.
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Towing an AWD Car: What You Need to Know
Towing your vehicle is a common need, whether you’re moving, heading to a repair shop, or embarking on a road trip. However, when you own an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) car, the process becomes more complex. Many people wonder, “Can I use a tow dolly on an AWD car?” The short answer is a resounding “no” for most standard tow dollies. This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a critical piece of advice to prevent costly driveline damage towing. Let’s dive into why and explore the correct ways to tow an AWD vehicle.
Deciphering AWD and its Towing Implications
AWD systems are designed to send power to all four wheels, either constantly or when traction is lost. This is fantastic for everyday driving, especially in slippery conditions. However, when a car is being towed, this continuous or reactive power distribution becomes a major problem, especially with methods that keep some wheels on the ground.
How AWD Systems Work
Unlike traditional front-wheel drive towing or rear-wheel drive towing, where only two wheels typically drive the vehicle, AWD systems engage all four wheels. This engagement is managed by a complex network of differentials and, in some cases, a transfer case towing component. These parts allow for the distribution of torque between the front and rear axles, and sometimes even between individual wheels.
When you tow a vehicle with its driven wheels on the ground, those wheels are turning. If the transmission is engaged in any way, or if the AWD system isn’t completely disengaged, it means the all-wheel drive driveline is actively receiving input from the wheels as they roll.
Why Tow Dollies Spell Trouble for AWD Cars
A standard tow dolly typically lifts the front wheels of a towed vehicle off the ground while the rear wheels remain on the pavement. This works well for front-wheel drive vehicles because only the non-driven wheels are rolling. For rear-wheel drive vehicles, you’d use a dolly to lift the rear wheels, leaving the front wheels to roll.
However, with AWD car towing, this setup is disastrous. If the front wheels are on the dolly and the rear wheels are on the ground, the drivetrain is still connected. Even if the car is in neutral, the rear wheels turning will force the transmission and potentially the front axle to turn. This can cause the AWD system, particularly the differential and transfer case towing components, to work against each other. The result is often overheating, excessive wear, and ultimately, severe driveline damage towing.
Tow Dolly Limitations
- Front-wheel lift: Standard dollies lift the front.
- Rear-wheel rotation: Leaves the rear wheels on the ground.
- Driveline engagement: With AWD, this forces both axles to rotate simultaneously, often at different speeds, creating immense stress.
Even if your AWD vehicle has a specific “neutral towing position” that’s supposed to disengage the drivetrain, it’s rarely designed for the rear wheels to be driven by the road while the front wheels are stationary or vice-versa. The primary issue is the continuous, unintended operation of the all-wheel drive driveline.
The Risks of Towing an AWD Car Incorrectly
Ignoring the advice to avoid tow dollies with AWD vehicles can lead to a cascade of expensive repairs. This is precisely why damage-free towing is such a crucial consideration.
Common Driveline Damage Scenarios
- Differential failure: The differential allows wheels on the same axle to rotate at different speeds when turning. When towing an AWD car incorrectly, the differentials can be forced to operate under extreme, unnatural loads, leading to gear damage or complete failure.
- Transfer case damage: The transfer case directs power to the front and rear axles. Incorrect towing can cause internal components of the transfer case to grind or seize, resulting in costly repairs.
- Transmission strain: The transmission is designed to handle engine power, not to be driven by the wheels at highway speeds while the engine is off. This stress can lead to overheating, clutch damage, or internal component failure.
- Axle damage: The axles themselves can be subjected to immense torsional stress, potentially leading to bent or broken axles.
Towing a 4×4: Similar Concerns
It’s important to note that towing a 4×4 (four-wheel drive) vehicle often presents the same challenges as towing an AWD vehicle. Many 4×4 systems have a manual or automatic engagement of the front axle, and attempting to tow with wheels on the ground can cause similar driveline damage. Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific towing instructions for your 4×4.
Correct Methods for Towing an AWD Car
Given the limitations of tow dollies, what are the appropriate ways to tow an AWD vehicle? The goal is always to ensure that the driven wheels are either lifted completely off the ground or that the vehicle’s drivetrain is completely disengaged in a way that is explicitly approved by the manufacturer.
1. Flat Towing (Dinghy Towing)
Flat towing, also known as dinghy towing or four-down towing, involves towing the vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. This method is only possible if your AWD car is specifically designed and equipped for it.
Requirements for Flat Towing:
- Manufacturer Approval: Not all AWD vehicles can be flat-towed. You must consult your owner’s manual.
- Specific Procedure: Many vehicles require a specific procedure to place the transmission in neutral, disengage the AWD system (often involving a specific setting in the transfer case or a fuse pull), and sometimes even disconnect the battery.
- Tow Bar and Braking System: A robust tow bar is essential, along with an auxiliary braking system for the towed vehicle to ensure safety and comply with regulations.
How it Generally Works (Consult your manual for specifics):
- Turn the ignition key to the “Accessory” or “On” position (but do not start the engine). This allows the steering wheel to unlock.
- Ensure the transmission is in Park (automatic) or in Neutral with the clutch engaged (manual).
- Engage the neutral towing position for the transfer case or AWD system if applicable. Some vehicles have a specific lever or electronic control for this.
- Disconnect the battery if the manufacturer recommends it to prevent battery drain and to ensure the steering wheel remains unlocked.
- Connect the tow bar and braking system.
Key Caution: If your AWD car is not rated for flat towing, attempting it will cause the same driveline damage as using a tow dolly.
2. Using a Car Hauler (Enclosed or Open Trailer)
The most foolproof and recommended method for AWD car towing is to use a car hauler trailer. This type of trailer lifts all four wheels of the towed vehicle off the ground, completely isolating the drivetrain from the road.
Benefits of Car Haulers:
- Complete Driveline Protection: No wheels are turning, so there is zero stress on the transmission, differentials, or transfer case. This guarantees damage-free towing.
- Versatility: Works for virtually all types of vehicles, including AWD, 4×4, front-wheel drive, and rear-wheel drive.
- Protection from Elements: Enclosed trailers offer additional protection from weather and road debris.
How to Use a Car Hauler:
- Drive or winch the AWD car onto the trailer.
- Secure the vehicle to the trailer using appropriate tie-down straps. Ensure the straps are attached to the frame or designated tie-down points and not to suspension components.
- Check that the towed vehicle’s steering wheel is unlocked if it’s not tied down securely in a straight position.
3. Drive-On Wheel-Lift Tow Trucks (Specific Configurations)
Some specialized tow trucks are equipped with a drive-on wheel-lift system that can lift both the front and rear axles of a vehicle simultaneously. This is less common than traditional flatbed tow trucks but can be an option if available.
Considerations for Wheel-Lift Towing:
- Manufacturer Approval: Even with a wheel-lift, it’s crucial to verify if the manufacturer permits this towing method. Some AWD systems might still experience issues if the transfer case isn’t properly disengaged or if there’s any residual drivetrain engagement.
- Towing Capacity: Ensure the tow truck has sufficient capacity for your AWD vehicle.
What If My AWD Car is Stuck?
If your AWD car is stuck in a situation where you need to move it a short distance without a proper tow, extreme caution is advised.
Emergency Situations
If you absolutely must move the vehicle a very short distance (e.g., out of a ditch) and lack the proper equipment:
- Consult the Manual First: Look for any emergency towing instructions.
- Consider a Recovery Strap: If you have another vehicle that can pull it, use a proper recovery strap attached to frame-mounted recovery points.
- Minimal Movement: Move the absolute minimum distance necessary.
- Neutral Gear: Ensure the transmission is in neutral.
- Steering Unlock: Make sure the steering wheel is unlocked.
However, any movement with wheels on the ground that are part of the AWD system is inherently risky. It’s always better to wait for a professional tow truck with a flatbed.
Can I Use a Dolly with a Disconnected Driveshaft?
Some experienced DIYers might consider disconnecting the driveshaft on an AWD vehicle to tow it on a dolly. While this can theoretically work, it’s a complex procedure with significant risks:
- Driveshaft Removal: Requires specialized tools and knowledge.
- Transfer Case: The transfer case towing component might still have internal lubrication or components that can be damaged if not properly addressed.
- Front Wheel Drive: If you disconnect the rear driveshaft, you’re essentially turning the car into a front-wheel-drive vehicle for towing. This is generally acceptable if the vehicle is designed to operate in FWD mode.
- Reassembly: Proper reassembly is critical.
Recommendation: Unless you are a highly skilled mechanic with intimate knowledge of your specific vehicle’s AWD system and the tow dolly limitations when combined with drivetrain modifications, it’s best to avoid this method. The risk of driveline damage towing is too high.
Summary Table: Towing Methods for AWD Cars
| Towing Method | Suitability for AWD Cars | Risks | Best Practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Tow Dolly | Generally NO | Severe driveline damage (transmission, differentials, transfer case) | Avoid entirely. |
| Flat Towing (4-down) | ONLY IF SPECIFICALLY APPROVED by Manufacturer | Driveline damage if not done correctly or if vehicle not designed for it | Follow manufacturer’s exact procedure; use tow bar and braking system. |
| Car Hauler Trailer | YES – Highly Recommended | Minimal; requires proper securing of the vehicle | Drive or winch vehicle onto trailer, secure it properly. Guarantees damage-free towing. |
| Drive-on Wheel-Lift | Potentially YES (Consult Manual) | Driveline strain if not properly disengaged | Check manufacturer’s recommendations; ensure tow truck has correct setup. |
| Disconnecting Driveshaft | Risky DIY – Not Recommended for most | Driveline damage, improper reassembly | Only attempt if you are an expert mechanic and fully understand the risks. |
FAQs About Towing AWD Cars
Q1: Can I tow my AWD car backward on a tow dolly?
A: No. Towing an AWD car backward on a tow dolly would mean the driven wheels (likely the rear) are on the dolly and the front wheels are on the ground. This still engages the drivetrain and can cause severe damage, similar to towing front-first.
Q2: What happens if I accidentally tow my AWD car with a tow dolly?
A: You risk significant damage to your transmission, differentials, and transfer case. This can result in thousands of dollars in repair costs. The AWD system components can overheat, grind, or seize.
Q3: How can I find out if my AWD car can be flat-towed?
A: The most reliable source is your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Look for a section on recreational towing or dinghy towing. If it’s not mentioned, assume it cannot be flat-towed.
Q4: Are there any special tow dollies for AWD cars?
A: While there might be very niche or custom solutions, standard tow dollies are not designed for AWD vehicles. The fundamental issue is lifting only two wheels of a four-wheel-driven system.
Q5: What is the safest way to transport an AWD car?
A: The safest and most recommended method for AWD car towing is using a car hauler trailer that lifts all four wheels off the ground. This ensures complete isolation of the drivetrain.
Q6: My car is AWD but also has a disconnectable front axle. Can I use a tow dolly then?
A: Even with a disconnectable front axle, you must consult your owner’s manual for specific towing procedures. Some AWD systems require more than just disconnecting the axle to prevent driveline damage towing. If the rear axle is still driven, towing with the front on a dolly is still problematic.
Q7: What is the difference between AWD and 4WD in terms of towing?
A: For towing purposes with standard dollies, the difference is often negligible, as both systems involve all wheels potentially being driven. Many 4WD systems also require specific procedures, like placing the transfer case in neutral and sometimes disconnecting driveshafts, to prevent damage.
Q8: Is it okay to tow an AWD car in neutral with a tow dolly?
A: Generally, no. Placing the transmission in neutral on an AWD car does not necessarily disengage the transfer case or the differentials in a way that prevents them from being forced to turn by the wheels on the ground. This can still lead to driveline damage towing.
Q9: What are the basic steps for flat towing an AWD vehicle?
A: Typically, it involves turning the ignition to the accessory position to unlock the steering, placing the transmission in neutral, engaging a specific neutral towing position for the transfer case/AWD system, and often disconnecting the battery. Always verify with your owner’s manual.
Q10: What if I only need to tow my AWD car a very short distance?
A: Even short distances can cause damage if the drivetrain is engaged. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and use a flatbed or approved method. If absolutely unavoidable, ensure minimal distance, neutral gear, and an unlocked steering wheel, but be aware of the significant risks.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure your AWD vehicle reaches its destination safely and without costly repairs, prioritizing damage-free towing every time.