Can You Tow a Car on a Flatbed With the Engine Running?

Introduction

Towing a car is a common occurrence, whether it’s due to a breakdown, an accident, or simply needing to transport the vehicle. When towing a car, it’s important to understand the proper procedures to ensure the safety of yourself, others, and the vehicle being towed. One question that often arises is whether or not it’s safe to tow a car on a flatbed with the engine running.

Safety Concerns

Towing a car with the engine running can pose several safety concerns:

Transmission damage: When the car is in neutral and the engine is running, the transmission output shaft is spinning freely. Towing the car in this condition can cause the transmission to overheat and potentially fail.
Driveline damage: The driveshaft and differential are also subject to damage if the car is towed with the engine running. The spinning output shaft can cause these components to overheat and potentially break.
Brake damage: If the car is equipped with power brakes, they may not function properly if the engine is not running. This can make it difficult to control the car during towing, potentially leading to an accident.
Fire hazard: In some cases, towing a car with the engine running can cause the exhaust system to overheat and potentially start a fire.

Exceptions

While it’s generally not recommended to tow a car on a flatbed with the engine running, there are some exceptions to this rule:

Front-wheel drive cars: Some front-wheel drive cars can be towed with the engine running for short distances, as long as the transmission is placed in neutral. However, it’s important to consult the owner’s manual for specific instructions.
Four-wheel drive vehicles: Four-wheel drive vehicles can be towed with the engine running, as long as the transfer case is placed in neutral. However, it’s important to ensure that the driveshafts are not engaged.
Emergency situations: In emergency situations, where towing the car with the engine off is not possible, it may be necessary to tow the car with the engine running. However, this should only be done as a last resort and for as short a distance as possible.

Conclusion

In general, it’s best to avoid towing a car on a flatbed with the engine running. This practice can pose several safety risks, including transmission damage, driveline damage, brake damage, and fire hazard. If it’s necessary to tow a car with the engine running, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and only do so for as short a distance as possible.