What should be noted when towing an automatic transmission vehicle?
2 Answers
When towing an automatic transmission vehicle, the following points should be noted: 1. If the vehicle being towed is an automatic transmission, it is recommended to place it in N (Neutral) gear under any circumstances. When in N gear, there is no rigid connection between the input and output shafts of the transmission. During towing, the gears inside the transmission only rotate freely without transferring power to the engine. 2. If the drive wheels are lifted off the ground, theoretically any gear can be engaged, as only the non-drive wheels remain in contact with the ground. 3. Never allow the drive wheels to touch the ground when the gear is in P (Park). The P gear has a locking mechanism that secures the output shaft gear of the transmission, preventing the drive wheels from rotating. Forced towing in this state can wear out the locking gear and may severely damage the P gear locking mechanism. 4. For keyless start vehicles, press the start button to unlock the steering wheel before towing. 5. If you are driving an automatic transmission vehicle to tow another vehicle, simply pay attention to the speed, which is recommended to be around 30 kilometers per hour.
When it comes to automatic transmission towing, I believe the most important thing is to avoid damaging the gearbox. Normally when driving, the engine is running and the transmission fluid circulates for lubrication. But during towing with the engine off, oil pressure is insufficient, and long-distance high-speed towing can burn out the transmission. I've personally seen many such cases in repair shops, where repairs can cost thousands. The correct approach is to shift into Neutral (N) gear, release the handbrake, and only tow for short distances at low speeds, such as moving from a parking lot to the road. For distances over a few kilometers, it's best to use a flatbed truck or professional towing service—it's worry-free and safer. Safety should also not be overlooked: check tires and the braking system before towing, ensure the tow rope is secure, and turn on hazard lights to prevent secondary accidents.