What should be noted when towing an automatic transmission vehicle?
5 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.
When towing an automatic transmission vehicle, I must remind you that safety comes first—don't be reckless. Unlike manual transmissions, if the engine is off, the transmission oil pump won't work, and prolonged towing can cause internal wear. Before towing, shift to Neutral (N), release the parking brake, and keep the speed low—this is only suitable for short-distance emergencies. I always emphasize this point when teaching new drivers in training courses: avoid long-distance towing as it can overheat and damage components. Also, ensure the road is flat, avoid sharp turns, and bring safety equipment like reflective cones to protect yourself and others. For long distances, it's better to call a professional tow truck to avoid hassle.
When I first learned to tow a car, I made a mistake: I towed it without shifting the automatic transmission to N gear, which damaged the transmission. Now I know better. Before towing, you must shift to N gear, release the handbrake, and only tow for very short distances, like moving it around your driveway. Keep the speed under 20 km/h. For long distances, you should use a towing company. Check if the tow hook and rope are secure, and place a warning sign on the car to prevent accidents. Remember, safe driving starts with the details.
I had an incident towing my automatic transmission car once, dragging it for several kilometers, which caused the transmission to overheat and cost me a hefty repair bill. This experience taught me that towing an automatic transmission vehicle requires caution. Putting the gear in N (Neutral) is basic, but don't take shortcuts by towing over long distances—without the engine running, the oil doesn't circulate, making parts prone to damage. It's best to operate at low speeds over short distances or simply call professional towing services. I also learned to check the vehicle manual in advance, as some cars have special towing modes. Don't forget safety precautions: secure the tow strap properly and turn on the hazard lights. Through these lessons, I've developed a habit of regular check-ups.
