Can You Tow a Car with the Engine Running?

Introduction

Towing a car can be a necessary task for a variety of reasons. Whether you’re towing a broken-down vehicle to a repair shop or simply moving a car from one location to another, it’s important to know the proper way to do so. One of the most important questions to consider is whether or not you can tow a car with the engine running.

The General Rule

In general, it is not recommended to tow a car with the engine running. This is because when the engine is running, the transmission is engaged. This can put unnecessary stress on the transmission and other components of the car, which can lead to damage.

Exceptions to the Rule

There are a few exceptions to the general rule against towing a car with the engine running. These include:

* **When the car is being towed on a flatbed trailer.** In this case, the car’s wheels are not touching the ground, so the transmission is not engaged.
* **When the car is being towed for a very short distance.** If you need to tow the car just a few feet, it is unlikely to cause any damage.
* **When the car is being towed by a professional towing company.** Professional towing companies have the experience and equipment to safely tow a car with the engine running.

Risks of Towing a Car with the Engine Running

If you do decide to tow a car with the engine running, there are some risks to be aware of, including:

* **Damage to the transmission.** As mentioned above, towing a car with the engine running can put stress on the transmission. This can lead to leaks, overheating, and even complete failure.
* **Damage to the other components of the car.** In addition to the transmission, towing a car with the engine running can also damage other components of the car, such as the driveline, axles, and suspension.
* **Fire.** If the car’s engine overheats, it can cause a fire. This is especially dangerous if the car is being towed in an enclosed space, such as a garage.

How to Tow a Car Safely

If you need to tow a car, it is important to follow these safety tips:

* **Use a tow truck or flatbed trailer.** This is the safest way to tow a car, as it keeps the car’s wheels off the ground.
* **If you must tow the car with the engine running, do so for a very short distance only.**
* **Drive slowly and carefully.** Avoid sudden starts and stops.
* **Monitor the car’s temperature gauge closely.** If the car begins to overheat, pull over and let it cool down.
* **Be aware of your surroundings.** Make sure that the car is not going to hit anything or anyone.

Conclusion

Towing a car with the engine running is generally not recommended. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. If you do decide to tow a car with the engine running, it is important to be aware of the risks and to take steps to minimize them. By following these safety tips, you can help ensure that the car is towed safely and without damage.