How Do You Tow An Awd Vehicle

Towing an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) vehicle isn't as straightforward as towing a Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) car. Ignoring the specific needs of an AWD system can lead to serious, and expensive, damage. This guide explains the proper methods for towing AWD vehicles, the underlying mechanical principles, and essential safety precautions.

Why This Matters: Protecting Your AWD Investment

Understanding AWD towing procedures is crucial for several reasons:

Repair and Maintenance: If your AWD vehicle breaks down, knowing the correct towing method prevents further damage.
Off-Road Recovery: Sometimes, getting stuck requires a tow. Using the wrong technique can ruin your drivetrain.
Performance Modifications: Even modifying your AWD system can change towing needs. Knowledge is power.
Preventing Catastrophic Failure: Incorrect towing can destroy differentials, transfer cases, and other expensive components.

Key Specs and Main Parts of an AWD System

To understand the towing requirements, you need to grasp the basics of an AWD system. AWD systems come in various forms, but they all share the same fundamental goal: to deliver power to all four wheels. Let's break down the key components:

Engine: The source of power for the entire system.
Transmission: Transfers power from the engine to the drivetrain. This may be an automatic or manual transmission.
Transfer Case: The heart of many AWD systems. It splits the power coming from the transmission and sends it to both the front and rear axles. Some systems use a viscous coupling or clutch pack instead of a traditional transfer case.
Front Differential: Allows the front wheels to rotate at different speeds, which is essential for turning.
Rear Differential: Allows the rear wheels to rotate at different speeds.
Driveshafts (Propeller Shafts): Connect the transfer case to the front and rear differentials, transmitting power.
Axles: Connect the differentials to the wheels.
Wheel Speed Sensors: Some advanced AWD systems use wheel speed sensors to detect slippage and adjust power distribution accordingly. These sensors play a crucial role in Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Traction Control System (TCS) operations.

The key spec to consider is the type of AWD system in your vehicle. Is it a part-time system, a full-time system, or an on-demand system? This will greatly affect towing requirements. Check your owner's manual!

AWD Towing Diagram Symbols

Towing diagrams often use symbols to convey important information. Here's a breakdown of common symbols:

Solid Lines: Represent solid, mechanical connections like driveshafts or axles.
Dashed Lines: May represent hydraulic lines (in systems with electronically controlled clutches) or wiring harnesses for sensors.
Arrows: Indicate the direction of force or movement.
Circles/Gears: Symbolize differentials or gearboxes.
"X" over Wheels: Typically signifies that the wheel must be off the ground during towing.
Colors: Color coding often differentiates between different systems or fluid types (e.g., transmission fluid, differential fluid).

The towing diagram we can provide will be specific to your vehicle. It will show recommended towing points, whether flatbed towing is required, and other crucial information. We have that file and can provide it on request.

How It Works: The Mechanics of Towing

When towing an AWD vehicle with all four wheels on the ground (a practice generally not recommended unless specifically approved by the manufacturer), the wheels are forced to turn. This turning motion is transferred through the axles to the differentials. The differentials then transmit this motion through the driveshafts to the transfer case and, ultimately, to the transmission. This is where the problems begin.

Even with the engine off, the internal components of the transmission and transfer case are still rotating. If these components are not properly lubricated (as they would be with the engine running and the oil pump operating), excessive friction and heat can build up, leading to significant damage. Moreover, some AWD systems have electronically controlled clutches or viscous couplings within the transfer case or differentials. Without power, these components may not disengage, leading to binding and potential damage.

The safest method for towing most AWD vehicles is using a flatbed truck. A flatbed ensures that all four wheels are off the ground, preventing any rotation of the drivetrain components. If a flatbed isn't available, you may be able to use a dolly. However, a dolly typically only lifts two wheels off the ground, leaving the other two wheels to rotate. In most cases, this is still problematic for AWD systems.

Some AWD vehicles *may* have a "neutral tow" mode. This mode is designed to disengage the drivetrain, allowing the vehicle to be towed with all four wheels on the ground. However, this mode is not available on all AWD vehicles, and it is *crucial* to consult your owner's manual to determine if your vehicle has this feature and the specific procedure for engaging it. Incorrectly engaging neutral tow can be just as damaging as towing the vehicle without disengaging the drivetrain.

Real-World Use: Troubleshooting and Best Practices

Here are some practical tips for safely towing an AWD vehicle:

Consult Your Owner's Manual: This is the most important step. Your owner's manual provides specific instructions for towing your vehicle.
Identify Your AWD System: Determine the type of AWD system your vehicle has. This will help you understand the towing requirements.
Inspect for Damage: Before towing, visually inspect the vehicle for any existing damage to the drivetrain.
Check Fluid Levels: If you suspect a leak in the transmission or transfer case, check the fluid levels before towing. Low fluid levels can exacerbate damage during towing.
Use the Right Equipment: Use the appropriate towing equipment, such as a flatbed truck or a dolly. Ensure the equipment is in good working condition.
Consider Disconnecting the Driveshaft: As a last resort if you can't use a flatbed and a neutral tow mode isn't available, you *may* be able to disconnect the driveshaft. *This is a complex procedure and should only be attempted by experienced mechanics.* It is also model specific.

Troubleshooting Tip: If you hear unusual noises during towing, stop immediately and reassess the situation. Continuing to tow with unusual noises could indicate damage to the drivetrain.

Safety: Risky Components and Precautions

The most risky components during AWD towing are the transfer case and the differentials. These components are complex and contain numerous moving parts that require proper lubrication. Towing an AWD vehicle with all four wheels on the ground can cause excessive wear and tear on these components, leading to premature failure. The electronically controlled clutches in some AWD systems are also vulnerable if not properly disengaged.

Important Safety Precautions:

Never tow an AWD vehicle with all four wheels on the ground without first consulting your owner's manual or a qualified mechanic.
Always use the recommended towing equipment.
Ensure the towing equipment is properly secured.
Drive slowly and carefully during towing.
Stop immediately if you hear any unusual noises.
Wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection, when working around towing equipment.

Ignoring these precautions can result in serious damage to your AWD vehicle and potentially dangerous situations. Remember, the cost of a flatbed tow is almost always less than the cost of repairing a damaged transfer case or differential.

We have the towing diagram specific to your vehicle, which includes detailed instructions and safety guidelines. Contact us to download the file and ensure a safe and damage-free towing experience.