Towing a car with an automatic transmission requires special considerations to prevent damage to the transmission․ Heres a comprehensive guide on how to tow your automatic transmission car safely and effectively⁚
Understanding the Risks
Towing an automatic transmission car incorrectly can lead to serious damage, including⁚
- Transmission overheating⁚ The transmission fluid circulates and cools the transmission․ When towed improperly, the fluid cant circulate effectively, leading to overheating and damage․
- Internal transmission damage⁚ The transmissions internal components can wear prematurely or break down if the vehicle is towed incorrectly․
- Damaged seals⁚ Towing with the transmission in gear can cause seals to fail, leading to leaks and further damage․
Towing Methods for Automatic Transmission Cars
There are two main methods for towing a car with an automatic transmission⁚
1․ Flatbed Towing
This is the safest and most recommended method for towing automatic transmission cars․ The vehicle is lifted onto a flatbed truck, eliminating the risk of damage to the transmission․
2․ Rear Wheel Towing
This method is only suitable for short distances and under specific conditions․ Here are the key considerations⁚
- Towing with the transmission in neutral⁚ The transmission must be in “Neutral” (N) and the parking brake disengaged․ The drive wheels must be off the ground․
- Towing speed⁚ The maximum towing speed should be 35 mph (56 km/h)․ Excessive speed can cause transmission damage․
- Distance limitations⁚ Rear wheel towing is generally not recommended for distances exceeding 50 miles (80 km)․
- Proper towing equipment⁚ Use a quality tow bar and safety chains․ Ensure the tow bar is properly attached to the vehicles tow points․
Important Considerations
Before towing, its crucial to⁚
- Consult your owners manual⁚ The manual will have specific instructions for towing your vehicle․
- Check the transmission fluid level⁚ Ensure the fluid level is at the correct level․ Low fluid levels can lead to overheating․
- Use a reputable towing company⁚ Choose a company that has experience towing cars with automatic transmissions․
Following these best practices will help ensure that your automatic transmission car is towed safely and without damage․ If you have any doubts or concerns, consult a qualified mechanic or your cars owners manual․
Additional Tips for Towing an Automatic Transmission Car
Here are some extra tips to keep in mind when towing a car with an automatic transmission⁚
- Avoid sudden stops and starts⁚ These can put stress on the transmission․
- Dont tow uphill for extended periods⁚ Towing uphill can lead to overheating․
- Check the transmission fluid regularly⁚ Even if the fluid level was correct before towing, its a good idea to check it after the tow․
- Consider using a transmission cooler⁚ For long-distance towing, a transmission cooler can help to prevent overheating․ A transmission cooler is an additional heat exchanger that helps to cool the transmission fluid․
- Dont tow with the transmission in gear⁚ This is a common mistake that can damage the transmission․ Always tow with the transmission in neutral․
When to Avoid Towing
There are certain situations where towing an automatic transmission car is not recommended․ These include⁚
- If the transmission is already damaged⁚ Towing a car with a damaged transmission can worsen the problem․
- If the vehicle has been involved in a recent accident⁚ Towing a vehicle after an accident can damage the transmission if it has already been affected by the crash․
- If the vehicle is not designed for towing⁚ Some vehicles are not designed for towing and may not have the necessary towing equipment․
Conclusion
Towing a car with an automatic transmission requires careful consideration and proper techniques․ By following these best practices, you can minimize the risk of damage to your vehicles transmission and ensure a safe and successful tow․