Can D&G Towing Tow an AWD or 4WD Vehicle Without Causing Damage?
Introduction
Towing an all-wheel-drive (AWD) or four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicle is not quite the same as towing a conventional two-wheel-drive car. These vehicles use drivetrains designed to distribute power between multiple wheels, and moving them incorrectly can place stress on components that were never meant to rotate in that particular configuration.That is why many drivers ask an important question after a breakdown, accident, flat tire, or mechanical failure: Can an AWD or 4WD vehicle be towed without causing damage?The answer is yes, but the towing method matters.D&G Towing serves Fresno, California, and surrounding areas with 24/7 towing and roadside assistance. Its towing services include local and long-distance towing, vehicle recovery, and other roadside assistance, with a fleet that includes flatbed and wheel-lift tow trucks. The company specifically states that AWD and 4WD vehicles can be safely towed, typically using a flatbed to help avoid drivetrain damage.Understanding why the right equipment matters can help you make a safer decision when your AWD SUV, crossover, pickup, or 4WD vehicle needs transportation.
Why AWD and 4WD Vehicles Require Special Towing Consideration
How AWD and 4WD drivetrains work
AWD and 4WD systems are designed to transfer engine power to more than two wheels. Depending on the vehicle, the system may use components such as differentials, transfer cases, driveshafts, clutches, and electronically controlled drivetrain components.The exact design varies considerably between manufacturers and models.An AWD crossover, for example, may use an electronically controlled system that automatically sends power to different wheels based on driving conditions. A traditional 4WD truck may use a selectable transfer case with two-wheel-drive, four-wheel-drive, and neutral settings.Those differences matter during towing because the wheels may continue to rotate even though the engine is not operating.
Why incorrect towing can cause problems
If some wheels remain on the road while others are lifted, components within the drivetrain can rotate at different speeds. Depending on the vehicle's design, that movement may create unwanted stress or heat.The risk is not identical for every AWD or 4WD vehicle. Some vehicles have specific procedures that permit limited towing with wheels on the ground, while others require all four wheels to be lifted.For that reason, the owner's manual should always be treated as the final authority for the specific vehicle.Subaru, for example, warns that improper towing can damage its AWD system and recommends flatbed towing for its AWD vehicles. Manufacturer guidance from Ford also demonstrates that towing rules can vary between individual 4WD and AWD models, with some vehicles requiring specific transfer-case or neutral-tow procedures.
Is a Flatbed Tow Truck Safer for AWD and 4WD Vehicles?
How flatbed towing works
A flatbed tow truck carries the vehicle on a platform rather than allowing its wheels to roll along the road during transportation.The vehicle is positioned onto the bed and secured before transport. If the vehicle cannot drive onto the bed because of a breakdown, accident, locked wheels, or other damage, appropriate recovery equipment may be used to load it.Keeping all four wheels off the ground removes one of the major concerns associated with towing an AWD or 4WD vehicle: unwanted wheel rotation.AAA identifies flatbed tow trucks as a suitable option for AWD and 4WD vehicles and notes that flatbeds provide full support for the vehicle during transportation.
Why all four wheels being off the ground matters
With a flatbed, the tires are not rolling on the roadway throughout the trip. That means the drivetrain does not have to deal with the same wheel rotation that can occur with certain wheel-lift or flat-towing arrangements.Flatbed towing can also reduce exposure to potholes, road debris, and other hazards while the disabled vehicle is being transported.This does not mean a flatbed automatically makes every towing situation risk-free. The vehicle still needs to be loaded correctly, secured properly, and transported within the capabilities of the tow truck.
Can an AWD or 4WD Vehicle Be Towed With a Wheel-Lift Truck?
It depends on the vehicle
A wheel-lift truck raises either the front or rear wheels while the remaining wheels stay on the ground. This method can be appropriate for certain vehicles, but AWD and 4WD systems make the decision more complicated.The fact that a vehicle can physically be lifted by a wheel-lift truck does not necessarily mean it should be transported that way.Some manufacturers permit specific wheel-lift or four-wheel-down towing procedures under defined conditions. Others restrict those methods entirely.Ford's towing guidance illustrates this point: towing capabilities and restrictions differ among models, and some AWD/4WD vehicles have specific requirements regarding dollies, transfer cases, or neutral-tow settings.
Why guessing is a bad idea
A common mistake is assuming that every SUV or truck with four-wheel drive can be towed in the same manner.That is not the case.Two vehicles that look similar from the outside can have very different drivetrain designs. One might have a transfer case with a neutral position specifically intended for towing, while another may require all four wheels to remain off the ground.When there is uncertainty, checking the owner's manual and using a towing method appropriate for that particular model is safer than making assumptions.
How D&G Towing Approaches AWD and 4WD Towing
D&G Towing's Fresno service information specifically addresses AWD and 4WD towing and says these vehicles can be safely towed, typically using a flatbed to help prevent drivetrain damage. Its towing service page also identifies flatbeds, wheel-lift trucks, and heavy-duty rigs among its available equipment.The company's approach is relevant because choosing towing equipment should begin with the vehicle itself rather than simply dispatching whichever truck happens to be available.An operator may need to consider:
Whether the vehicle is AWD, 4WD, FWD, or RWD
The make, model, and year
Whether the vehicle can roll normally
Whether the steering system is functioning
Whether the wheels or suspension are damaged
Whether the parking brake is engaged
Whether the vehicle has manufacturer-specific towing instructions
Whether the vehicle was involved in an accident
The distance it needs to be transported
D&G Towing also provides vehicle recovery services for situations involving accidents, breakdowns, and off-road recovery.
What Information Should You Give the Tow Operator?
Providing accurate information during the initial call can help the towing company determine what equipment may be appropriate.
Tell them the vehicle's drivetrain
Instead of simply saying, "I have an SUV," tell the operator whether the vehicle is AWD or 4WD if you know.If you are unsure, provide the make, model, and year. The operator may be able to determine what type of towing equipment is appropriate based on the vehicle information.
Explain what happened
A vehicle that simply has a dead battery presents a different towing situation from one involved in a collision.Tell the operator whether:
The engine starts
The transmission shifts
The vehicle rolls
The steering works
A tire is damaged
The vehicle has collision damage
The vehicle is stuck in mud, sand, or another difficult location
D&G Towing provides both towing and vehicle recovery services, including assistance for accident and off-road situations.
Mention any unusual circumstances
If the vehicle is parked in a garage, has a locked steering wheel, is sitting on a steep incline, or cannot be accessed normally, mention that before the truck arrives.Small details can affect how the vehicle needs to be loaded.
What Happens During a Safe AWD or 4WD Tow?
Step 1: The operator assesses the vehicle
The towing operator first needs to understand the vehicle's condition and the surrounding situation.The operator may check whether the vehicle can roll, whether the tires are intact, and whether there is visible damage that could affect loading.
Step 2: The appropriate equipment is selected
The towing method should match the vehicle and its condition.For many AWD and 4WD vehicles, a flatbed is a practical choice because all four wheels can be carried off the ground. However, the exact procedure should still follow the vehicle manufacturer's requirements.
Step 3: The vehicle is loaded carefully
If the vehicle cannot drive onto the flatbed, the operator may use a winch or other suitable recovery equipment.Extra care may be necessary if the vehicle has damaged suspension components, locked wheels, collision damage, or limited clearance.
Step 4: The vehicle is secured
Once positioned on the truck, the vehicle must be properly secured for transportation.The operator should account for the vehicle's condition and use appropriate tie-down points and equipment.
Step 5: The vehicle is transported
After loading and securing the vehicle, it can be transported to the requested destination, such as a repair facility, dealership, residence, or other appropriate location.D&G Towing offers both local and long-distance towing in and around Fresno.
Common AWD and 4WD Towing Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming every 4WD vehicle can be flat towed
"Flat towing" can mean towing with all four wheels on the ground, which is different from flatbed towing.The terms are sometimes confused.Four-down towing may be permitted for certain vehicles, but it requires manufacturer approval and specific procedures. AAA recommends checking manufacturer guidelines before attempting this type of towing because not every vehicle can be flat towed without drivetrain or transmission damage.
Using a tow dolly without checking the owner's manual
A tow dolly lifts two wheels while leaving the other two on the road.That arrangement may not be appropriate for some AWD or 4WD vehicles. Ford, for example, specifies restrictions for certain AWD/4WD vehicles in its towing guidance.
Leaving the parking brake engaged
A locked wheel can complicate loading and transportation and may create unnecessary stress.If the vehicle has a mechanical problem that prevents it from being placed into the appropriate position, the operator should know before attempting to move it.
Assuming neutral solves every problem
Putting a vehicle in neutral does not automatically make every towing method safe.Some vehicles have dedicated neutral-tow procedures, while others do not permit particular towing arrangements even when the transmission selector is in neutral.Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the exact vehicle.
What Should You Do If Your AWD or 4WD Vehicle Breaks Down?
If your AWD or 4WD vehicle becomes disabled, focus first on safety.Move away from traffic if you can do so safely. Turn on your hazard lights and remain in a safe location while waiting for assistance.When contacting a towing service, provide your location and explain that the vehicle is AWD or 4WD. Give the make, model, and year if possible, and describe any damage or mechanical problems.If the vehicle was involved in an accident, mention that as well. A damaged suspension, steering component, tire, or axle can change the way the vehicle needs to be recovered and loaded.D&G Towing operates 24/7 in Fresno and surrounding areas and offers tire changes, lockout assistance, jump starts, and fuel delivery.
AWD vs. 4WD Towing: What Is the Difference?
AWD and 4WD are often grouped together, but their mechanical designs can be very different.AWD is commonly found on cars and crossovers and may automatically distribute power between the front and rear axles. 4WD is common on trucks and SUVs and may use a selectable transfer case with different operating modes.Neither label alone tells a tow operator exactly how the vehicle should be transported.The safest approach is to identify the specific vehicle and follow its manufacturer's towing instructions. In many cases, carrying all four wheels on a flatbed provides a straightforward way to avoid unnecessary drivetrain rotation.
Best Practices for Protecting Your Vehicle During a Tow
A few simple habits can reduce the chance of towing-related problems.
Tell the towing company that the vehicle is AWD or 4WD.
Provide the make, model, and year.
Explain whether the vehicle rolls and steers normally.
Mention accident or suspension damage before loading.
Check the owner's manual for towing requirements when possible.
Ask what towing method will be used.
Do not assume a wheel-lift, tow dolly, or four-down method is acceptable.
Use appropriate equipment for the vehicle's size and condition.
These steps are especially useful when you are dealing with a vehicle that cannot start or has been damaged.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an AWD vehicle be towed without damaging the drivetrain?
Yes. AWD vehicles can be transported safely when the towing method follows the vehicle manufacturer's requirements. A flatbed is commonly used because it keeps all four wheels off the ground, reducing unwanted drivetrain rotation.
Is flatbed towing better for 4WD vehicles?
A flatbed is often a suitable choice for 4WD vehicles because the entire vehicle is carried on the truck. However, the correct method depends on the vehicle's specific design and manufacturer instructions.
Can you tow an AWD car with two wheels on the ground?
Not necessarily. Some vehicles have specific procedures that permit certain towing arrangements, while others require all four wheels to be off the ground. Check the owner's manual before using a wheel-lift or tow-dolly method.
Does putting an AWD vehicle in neutral make it safe to tow?
No. Neutral does not automatically make every towing method safe. Some vehicles have dedicated neutral-tow procedures, while others do not permit particular methods. Manufacturer instructions should determine the procedure.
Can a 4WD truck be towed with a wheel-lift?
It depends on the truck and its drivetrain. Some models have specific procedures for wheel-lift or four-down towing, while others require a flatbed. The make, model, drivetrain, and transfer-case design all matter.
Is flat towing the same as flatbed towing?
No. Flat towing, sometimes called four-down towing, means all four wheels remain on the ground while another vehicle pulls the disabled vehicle. Flatbed towing means the vehicle is loaded completely onto a tow truck's platform.
What should I tell a tow company about an AWD vehicle?
Provide the vehicle's make, model, year, drivetrain type, location, and the reason it needs towing. Also mention accident damage, flat tires, locked wheels, steering problems, or anything else that could affect loading.
Can an AWD vehicle be towed after an accident?
Yes, but accident damage can change the recovery process. If steering, suspension, wheels, axles, or other components are damaged, the vehicle may need specialized loading and recovery equipment.
How do I prevent transmission damage during towing?
Use a towing method approved for your specific vehicle, follow the owner's manual, and tell the tow operator about the vehicle's drivetrain and condition. For many AWD and 4WD vehicles, transporting the vehicle on a flatbed can help prevent unwanted drivetrain rotation.
Can a towing company move a disabled AWD SUV that will not start?
Yes. A vehicle does not necessarily need to start to be loaded onto a tow truck. A suitable flatbed and recovery equipment can be used when a vehicle cannot drive onto the truck under its own power.
Conclusion
AWD and 4WD vehicles can be towed safely, but the method should never be chosen based solely on the vehicle's appearance or size. The drivetrain, manufacturer requirements, vehicle condition, and type of towing equipment all need to be considered.For many AWD and 4WD vehicles, flatbed towing is a practical option because it keeps all four wheels off the road and reduces the risk associated with unwanted wheel rotation. Still, the owner's manual remains the best source for model-specific towing instructions.If you are stranded in Fresno or the surrounding area with an AWD or 4WD vehicle, give the towing operator accurate information about your vehicle and its condition. D&G Towing provides 24/7 towing and vehicle recovery services in the Fresno area and specifically offers towing for AWD and 4WD vehicles, typically using a flatbed when appropriate.The goal of proper towing is simple: move the vehicle from one location to another without creating a second problem. Choosing the right equipment and following the vehicle manufacturer's towing requirements is the key to getting there safely.
