When your car breaks down or needs to be towed, the type of vehicle you drive plays a significant role in determining the best towing method. Wheel lift towing is a common and efficient way to transport vehicles, but it’s crucial to understand how it differs for front-wheel drive (FWD) and rear-wheel drive (RWD) vehicles. Choosing the wrong towing method could lead to damage, so we at Speedway Towing & Roadside Assistance would like to share what you need to know.
How Wheel Lift Towing Works
Wheel lift towing uses a hydraulic metal yoke that hooks under either the front or rear wheels of the vehicle. The lifted wheels are secured, while the remaining two wheels stay in contact with the road. This method is ideal for short-distance tows or situations where a flatbed tow truck isn’t necessary or practical. The key to safe wheel lift towing is knowing which wheels drive the vehicle—this determines whether the front or rear wheels should be lifted.
Towing a Front-Wheel Drive Vehicle
Most modern vehicles are front-wheel drive, meaning that power from the engine is transferred to the front wheels, while the rear wheels simply roll along. This setup makes FWD vehicles relatively easy to tow with a wheel lift system.
Best Towing Method: The front wheels should be lifted off the ground since they are connected to the drivetrain.
Why? Keeping the drive wheels off the road prevents unnecessary wear and transmission damage.
What About the Rear Wheels? Since they are free-rolling, they can safely remain on the ground.
Potential Risks. If a front-wheel drive vehicle is towed with its rear wheels lifted instead, the drive wheels will be dragged along the road, which could damage the transmission, differential, and axles.
Towing a Rear-Wheel Drive Vehicle
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) vehicles operate differently, with the power directed to the rear wheels. This means that when towing a RWD vehicle, the approach must be reversed.
Best Towing Method: The rear wheels should be lifted off the ground.
Why? If the rear wheels remain on the road, they could force the driveshaft to spin without the engine running, causing potential transmission damage.
What About the Front Wheels? Like the rear wheels on a FWD car, the front wheels of an RWD car can roll freely.
Potential Risks. If a RWD vehicle is towed with its front wheels lifted, the rear wheels will be dragged along, which could lead to severe transmission damage and excessive wear on the drivetrain components.
Alternative Towing Options
If a vehicle needs to be towed over a long distance or if a wheel lift tow is not possible, a flatbed tow truck may be a better option. This ensures that all four wheels are off the ground, preventing any risk of drivetrain or transmission damage. Another alternative is using tow dollies, which lift the non-driven wheels to prevent damage.
Towing & Roadside Assistance in Irving, Fort Worth, Arlington, Carrollton & Plano Texas
Understanding the differences between front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive towing is essential to avoid costly repairs. Always ensure that the drive wheels are off the ground when using a wheel lift towing method. When in doubt, consult a professional towing company to determine the best and safest approach for your vehicle. Reach out to Speedway Towing & Roadside Assistance for wheel lifting services in Irving, TX and surrounding areas.
