Why Can't Four-Wheel Drive Vehicles Be Towed?
3 Answers
The reasons why four-wheel drive vehicles cannot be towed are as follows: 1. Reason one: Full-time four-wheel drive vehicles have a central differential. 2. Reason two: If it is a multi-plate clutch type central differential, it will generate a large amount of heat, and since the vehicle is not running, the heat cannot dissipate, which may cause the central differential to burn out. 3. Reason three: If it is a gear-type central differential, such as a Torsen differential, it may cause damage to the turbine and worm gear. Information about four-wheel drive vehicles is as follows: 1. Four-wheel drive vehicle: Simply put, it is a vehicle with front and rear differential-linked four-wheel drive. Because the engine power is transmitted to all four wheels, all four wheels can provide power. 2. Classification: The four-wheel drive vehicle market has been divided into true off-road vehicles (hardcore four-wheel drive), dual-purpose off-road and on-road four-wheel drive vehicles, and urban four-wheel drive vehicles.
As an experienced 4WD driver, I've seen many friends make towing mistakes. Four-wheel-drive vehicles can't simply be towed like regular cars due to their different drivetrain design – the front and rear wheels are connected via axles. If you directly pull the vehicle with ropes or hooks, the inconsistent wheel rotation speeds will force excessive rotation of internal differential or transfer case gears, causing friction and permanent damage. The correct method is using a flatbed tow truck to lift the entire vehicle, preventing any wheels from rotating on the ground. Modern owner's manuals all include these instructions – ignoring them may lead to costly drivetrain repairs. Always check your manual before trips and choose professional services for peace of mind.
I enjoy delving into vehicle mechanics and often help with car repairs. Towing a four-wheel-drive vehicle should never be as casual as towing a regular sedan. The design of the front and rear axle connections forces the drivetrain components to move synchronously. When towing, if the wheels don't rotate in sync, it can easily jam the internal gears, causing increased friction and wear at best, or completely destroying the transfer case at worst. Modern vehicles might have intelligent four-wheel-drive modes that require manual switching or special procedures for safe towing. The best approach is to directly call for a flatbed towing service, where the wheels are completely off the ground, making it hassle-free. Repairing the drivetrain is expensive, so this precaution is well worth it.
