Towing is a common necessity when your vehicle experiences a breakdown, runs out of fuel, or needs to be transported to a different location. However, it’s essential to understand the impact of towing on your car’s transmission to ensure a smooth and damage-free towing experience. Today, we at Speedway Towing & Roadside Assistance would like to discuss what you need to know about towing and its effects on your vehicle’s transmission.
Role of the Transmission
The transmission of a vehicle plays a critical role in regulating power and controlling the speed of your car. It is responsible for shifting gears, ensuring that the engine’s power is efficiently delivered to the wheels. Transmissions come in two primary types: automatic and manual. Automatic transmissions use a hydraulic torque converter to manage gear changes, while manual transmissions require the driver to shift gears manually. The type of transmission your vehicle has can significantly impact how it should be towed.
Towing a Vehicle with an Automatic Transmission
When towing a vehicle with an automatic transmission, it’s essential to understand that the transmission pump, which circulates automatic transmission fluid (ATF), is typically driven by the engine. Therefore, when the engine is not running, as is the case during towing, the transmission pump is not functioning. This can lead to a lack of lubrication and potential damage to the transmission components. To safely tow a vehicle with an automatic transmission, the most common method is using a flatbed tow truck or a dolly, which raises the driving wheels off the ground. This prevents any damage to the transmission as the wheels are not connected to the transmission components.
Towing a Vehicle with a Manual Transmission
Towing a vehicle with a manual transmission is generally less complex in terms of the transmission’s functionality. In a manual transmission, the driver controls gear changes manually, so there is no need to be concerned about a non-operational transmission pump. However, it’s still essential to ensure that the vehicle is properly secured and connected to the tow truck.
Precautions to Take When Towing
1) Flatbed Tow Trucks: Whenever possible, opt for a flatbed tow truck or a tow dolly for towing your vehicle. This method keeps all your vehicle’s wheels off the ground, ensuring the transmission remains unaffected.
2) Ensure the Transmission Is in Neutral: Before towing, make sure the transmission is in neutral, regardless of the type of transmission your vehicle has. This prevents the transmission from being under strain during towing.
3) Consult Your Vehicle’s Manual: Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific towing instructions and any limitations regarding towing with your particular make and model.
4) Stay Within Speed and Distance Limits: Avoid towing your vehicle over long distances and at high speeds. Prolonged towing can generate excessive heat and friction, which can be detrimental to the transmission.
5) Professional Towing Services: If you’re uncertain about the best method to tow your vehicle, it’s advisable to enlist the services of a professional towing company with experience in handling different types of vehicles and transmissions.
Towing & Roadside Assistance in Irving, Fort Worth, Arlington, Carrollton & Plano Texas
Understanding the relationship between towing and your car’s transmission is crucial for preventing damage and ensuring a safe towing experience. By taking the right precautions, such as using flatbed tow trucks or tow dollies and consulting your vehicle’s manual, you can help safeguard your transmission during towing. Additionally, when in doubt, seek the expertise of a reliable towing service to ensure that your vehicle is towed safely and without any transmission-related issues. Call Speedway Towing & Roadside Assistance and let us take care of you.
