Can an Automatic Transmission Car Be Towed in D Gear?

[KylieFitz]

An automatic transmission car cannot be towed in D gear. When towing an automatic transmission car, it should be placed in N (Neutral) gear. P (Park) gear is for parking; D (Drive) gear is for forward movement; N gear is neutral and is used for starting, towing, and temporary stops. Below are the precautions for towing an automatic transmission car: If an automatic transmission car is being towed, it is recommended to always place it in N gear. In N gear, there is no rigid connection between the transmission input and output shafts, so the gears inside the transmission only spin freely when the car is being towed, and no power is transmitted to the engine. During the towing process, ensure there is sufficient distance between the front and rear vehicles to prevent them from rolling back. Both vehicles should turn on their hazard lights to alert surrounding drivers and pedestrians of their intentions. Starting and stopping must be "slow and steady" to prevent excessive tension on the tow rope. Communication is key, and preparations should be made in advance when going uphill, downhill, or at turning points. The general towing speed on public roads should not exceed 30 km/h.

[VanNicole]

I remember a time when a friend accidentally left the car in D gear while towing, which severely damaged the transmission, costing thousands in repairs. When towing an automatic transmission car, you must never leave it in D gear because D gear means the transmission is connected to the engine. During towing, the rotation of the wheels forces the transmission to work, causing the gears inside to rub and overheat, eventually leading to component failure. The correct approach is to shift into N gear, disconnecting the transmission and allowing the wheels to spin freely without damaging the car. For short-distance, low-speed towing—like moving from a parking spot to the roadside—it’s generally fine, but long-distance or high-speed towing carries significant risks. I also recommend checking the vehicle’s manual first, as some cars may require turning the key halfway or keeping the engine running to maintain brake fluid pressure and prevent wheel lock. In short, safety comes first—don’t cut corners and ruin your car.

[StGabriel]

As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, let me explain this. Using Drive (D) gear when towing an automatic transmission vehicle is a major no-no, and the reason is simple: In D gear, the transmission remains engaged, and when the wheels are forced to rotate during towing, the internal oil pressure can't circulate properly, causing temperatures to skyrocket and potentially leading to gear seizure or damage. Shifting to Neutral (N) is the correct approach—it disengages the transmission, allowing the wheels to roll freely and protecting the mechanics. Also, keep an eye on your speed; never exceed 40 kilometers per hour, as higher speeds increase vibrations and potential damage. If your vehicle is four-wheel drive, extra caution is needed—you might have to remove the driveshaft or activate tow mode. From experience, many owners overlook this and end up paying hefty repair bills, when proper handling from the start could have avoided it. Remember, Neutral (N) is the standard for towing.

[OJaxon]

Never use D gear when towing an automatic transmission vehicle - I've done several towing services and know this well. Keeping it in D gear forces the transmission to keep working without engine support, causing unlubricated fluid circulation and accelerated part wear that can quickly destroy it. The correct procedure is always selecting N gear to keep the transmission inactive. Different vehicle types require different approaches - for example, electric vehicles may need to stay powered to maintain system operation. Towing distance is also critical - short distances at low speeds pose fewer issues, but long-distance towing will definitely damage the vehicle. As a reminder, extra caution is needed when towing in winter or on slopes, as selecting the wrong gear may cause dangerous vehicle rollaway. Always monitor dashboard warning lights promptly to ensure safety.