AWD Towing: Why Two Wheels Down Destroys Drivetrains

When your all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicle breaks down, how it gets towed can mean the difference between a simple repair and a catastrophic drivetrain failure costing thousands of dollars. Towing an AWD vehicle with two wheels on the ground—whether front or rear—is one of the most damaging mistakes you can make.

How AWD Systems Work (And Why It Matters)

All-wheel drive systems distribute power to all four wheels through a complex network of differentials, transfer cases, and driveshafts. Unlike traditional two-wheel drive vehicles, AWD systems are designed with all four wheels turning at coordinated speeds.

When you tow an AWD vehicle with two wheels on the ground:

• The grounded wheels spin freely while the lifted wheels remain stationary
• The drivetrain components try to compensate for the speed differential
• Massive stress builds up in the transfer case and center differential
• Lubricant can't circulate properly without the engine running

This speed mismatch creates internal friction that can destroy bearings, gears, and seals within minutes—not hours, minutes.

The $3,000 to $8,000 Mistake

Here's what improper two-wheels-down towing typically damages in AWD vehicles:

Transfer Case Failure

The transfer case distributes power between the front and rear axles. Towing with mismatched wheel speeds forces it to work against itself. Replacement cost: $2,000 to $4,000 including labor.

Center Differential Damage

Many AWD systems use a center differential to manage power distribution. The internal gears can strip or weld together from heat buildup. Repair cost: $1,500 to $3,000.

Transmission Damage

In some vehicles, especially those with automatic transmissions, improper towing can force the transmission to turn without lubrication. This destroys bearings and clutch packs. Replacement cost: $3,500 to $8,000.

CV Joint and Axle Damage

The constant velocity joints connecting the wheels to the drivetrain weren't designed for this type of stress. Replacement: $300 to $800 per axle.

Which Vehicles Are Most Vulnerable?

Full-Time AWD Systems (Most at Risk):

• Subaru (all models with Symmetrical AWD)
• Audi Quattro
• BMW xDrive
• Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC
• Most luxury SUVs

Part-Time AWD Systems (Still at Risk):

• Toyota RAV4 AWD
• Honda CR-V AWD
• Ford Escape AWD
• Chevrolet Equinox AWD

4WD Vehicles (Risk When Engaged):

• Jeep Wrangler (when in 4WD mode)
• Toyota 4Runner
• Ford F-150 4x4

Even "part-time" AWD systems that can theoretically be shifted to 2WD mode often can't be safely towed with wheels down because the transfer case may still engage unexpectedly.

What Your Owner's Manual Actually Says

Every major automaker explicitly prohibits two-wheels-down towing for AWD vehicles. Here are some direct quotes:

Subaru: "Towing with all four wheels on the ground can cause serious damage to the transmission, differential, and other drivetrain components."

Audi: "Never tow your vehicle with only two wheels on the ground. All four wheels must be lifted or use a flatbed carrier."

BMW: "xDrive vehicles must be transported on a flatbed truck or with all four wheels off the ground."

Toyota (for AWD models): "If towing is necessary, use a wheel-lift or flatbed to prevent drivetrain damage."

The Only Safe Towing Methods for AWD

1. Flatbed Towing (Best Option)

A flatbed tow truck lifts your entire vehicle onto the truck bed. All four wheels are off the ground, eliminating any drivetrain stress. This is the only method we recommend for AWD vehicles.

Benefits:

• Zero risk of drivetrain damage
• Protects low-clearance vehicles
• Safest for all vehicle types
• Required by most manufacturers

2. All-Wheels-Off Dolly System

Some specialty towing situations use wheel dollies that lift all four wheels. This is less common but still safe when properly executed.

3. Driveshaft Disconnection (Not Recommended)

Theoretically, disconnecting the driveshaft can allow two-wheels-down towing, but this:

• Requires mechanical expertise
• Takes significant time
• Risks improper reassembly
• Voids many warranties if done incorrectly

Why Cheap Towing Companies Get This Wrong

Not all towing companies understand AWD systems. Warning signs of an inexperienced tow operator:

• Arrives with only a wheel-lift truck without asking about your drivetrain
• Dismisses your concerns about flatbed towing
• Claims "short distances are fine" (they're not—damage can occur within a mile)
• Doesn't ask about your vehicle type before dispatch

Questions to Ask Before Your Vehicle Gets Hooked

When you call for a tow, always ask:

1. "Do you have a flatbed available?"
2. "Does your driver understand AWD towing requirements?"
3. "Can you confirm my vehicle will be transported with all four wheels off the ground?"

If they can't answer yes to all three, call another company.

What to Do If You Witness Improper Towing

If a tow truck operator starts to hook up your AWD vehicle with a wheel-lift:

1. Stop them immediately and explain your vehicle is AWD
2. Show them your owner's manual towing section if they resist
3. Request a flatbed even if it means waiting longer
4. Document everything with photos and the operator's name
5. Refuse the tow if they won't comply

The brief inconvenience of waiting for proper equipment is nothing compared to a destroyed transmission.

Insurance and Warranty Implications

Here's what many drivers don't realize:

Manufacturer Warranty: Most automakers explicitly state that damage from improper towing is not covered. If your transfer case fails after being towed wrong, you're paying out of pocket—even on a new car.

Insurance: Your auto insurance typically covers towing as part of roadside assistance. If the tow company damages your vehicle, you may need to file a claim against their insurance, which creates a lengthy dispute process.

Third-Party Extended Warranties: These often have even stricter language excluding towing-related damage.

Nashville-Specific Considerations

In Nashville, many breakdowns happen on:

• I-24/I-40 interchange where quick towing decisions get made
• Downtown areas with narrow streets favoring smaller tow trucks
• Steep hills in neighborhoods like Green Hills and Sylvan Park

Don't let urgency or convenience override proper towing. The extra 15-20 minutes waiting for a flatbed is always worth it.

The Bottom Line

Never allow your AWD vehicle to be towed with two wheels on the ground. Period.

The only safe method is flatbed towing where all four wheels are completely off the road. The potential $3,000 to $8,000 in drivetrain damage far exceeds any savings from accepting the first available tow truck.

When you call for towing service:

• Specify that you have an AWD vehicle
• Request flatbed towing explicitly
• Confirm before the truck arrives
• Don't compromise under pressure

Your vehicle's drivetrain is too expensive and too critical to risk on improper towing methods.

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At Hook Em' Up Towing, we maintain a fleet of flatbed trucks specifically for AWD, 4WD, and luxury vehicles. Every driver on our team is trained on proper towing methods for all drivetrain types. When you need a tow in Nashville, call us at (615) 756-5330 for service that protects your vehicle.