Towing an Automatic Transmission Car: What You Need to Know

Towing an automatic transmission car can be tricky. If not done correctly, it can cause damage to the transmission. Heres what you need to know about towing an automatic transmission car⁚

Towing Methods

There are two main methods for towing an automatic transmission car⁚

1. Flatbed Towing⁚ This is the safest and most recommended method. The car is lifted onto a flatbed truck, eliminating any strain on the transmission.
2. Towing with a Dolly⁚ This method involves placing a dolly under the rear wheels, leaving the front wheels on the ground. This is less ideal, but can be used for short distances. Make sure the cars owners manual recommends this method.

Important Considerations

Here are some key things to remember when towing an automatic transmission car⁚

• Consult the Owners Manual⁚ Every car has specific towing instructions. Refer to your owners manual for the recommended towing method, maximum towing speed, and any other instructions.
• Neutral Gear⁚ When towing with a dolly, make sure the car is in neutral gear and the parking brake is off. With flatbed towing, the transmission should be in “Park” or “Neutral” depending on the specific instructions.
• Avoid Towing for Long Distances⁚ Extended towing can put stress on the transmission. If youre towing for a long distance, consider using a flatbed truck.
• Towing Speed⁚ Never exceed the recommended towing speed for your vehicle. This is usually 35-45 mph.
• Regular Maintenance⁚ Regular oil changes and transmission fluid flushes are important for maintaining a healthy transmission, especially when towing.

Towing an Automatic Transmission Car with a Dolly

If you must tow an automatic transmission car with a dolly, follow these steps⁚

1. Engage the Parking Brake⁚ Before you start, make sure the parking brake is engaged.
2. Shift to Neutral⁚ Place the transmission in “Neutral” gear.
3. Release the Parking Brake⁚ Carefully release the parking brake.
4. Place the Dolly Under the Rear Wheels⁚ Ensure the dolly is properly secured under the rear wheels.
5. Start Towing⁚ Begin towing slowly, making sure the car stays level.

Conclusion

Towing an automatic transmission car is a delicate process. By following the recommendations in your owners manual and these tips, you can ensure a safe and damage-free towing experience.

What Happens When You Tow an Automatic Transmission Incorrectly?

Towing an automatic transmission car improperly can lead to serious damage, resulting in costly repairs. Here are some potential problems⁚

• Transmission Damage⁚ The transmission is designed to move the car forward, not be towed. Towing with the transmission in drive or any other gear puts unnecessary stress on the internal components, potentially causing them to overheat, wear out, or even break.
• Fluid Leakage⁚ Towing can cause the transmission fluid to leak, especially if the car is towed for a long distance or at high speeds. This can lead to further damage to the transmission.
• Internal Wear and Tear⁚ Even if the transmission doesnt fail immediately, towing it incorrectly can accelerate wear and tear on the internal components, leading to premature failure;
• Damage to the Torque Converter⁚ The torque converter is a key part of the automatic transmission. Towing improperly can damage the torque converter, making it unable to properly engage and disengage.

Preventing Transmission Damage

To avoid transmission damage when towing an automatic transmission car, always follow these guidelines⁚

• Use the Recommended Towing Method⁚ As mentioned earlier, flatbed towing is the safest and most recommended method for towing an automatic transmission car. If you must use a dolly, make sure its suitable for your vehicle and that you understand the proper towing procedures.
• Follow the Owners Manual⁚ The owners manual is your best resource for specific towing instructions for your vehicle. It will specify the proper towing method, maximum towing speed, and any other important details.
• Choose a Reputable Towing Service⁚ When you need to tow your automatic transmission car, choose a reputable towing service that has experience in towing automatic transmissions. Make sure they are familiar with the correct procedures and have the right equipment.

Remember, towing an automatic transmission car can be risky if not done correctly. By understanding the risks and following the recommended guidelines, you can ensure a safe and damage-free towing experience.