Can You Tow an Automatic Car? Here's the Safe Way to Do It

Automatic transmission vehicles make up the majority of cars, trucks, and SUVs on the road today. While they're convenient to drive, they require extra care when it comes to towing. Many drivers assume that any vehicle can simply be hooked up behind a tow truck and transported, but that's not always the case.

Improper towing can lead to serious transmission damage, drivetrain problems, and expensive repairs. That's why it's important to understand how automatic vehicles should be transported and why professional towing services are the safest option.

At NCT Northern Cross Towing, we've been safely transporting vehicles throughout Jerome and Southern Idaho for more than 30 years. Whether your vehicle has broken down on Interstate 84, won't start in your driveway, or needs long-distance transport, we use the proper equipment to protect your investment.

Here's what every driver should know before towing an automatic vehicle.

Can Automatic Cars Be Towed?

Yes—but not every automatic vehicle should be towed the same way.

Many automatic transmissions rely on the engine running to circulate transmission fluid. When the vehicle is pulled with the drive wheels on the ground and the engine isn't running, internal components may not receive proper lubrication.

This can result in:

• Transmission overheating
• Internal gear damage
• Premature wear
• Complete transmission failure

Because repairs to automatic transmissions can cost thousands of dollars, using the proper towing method is critical.

The Best Way to Tow an Automatic Vehicle

The safest method depends on the type of vehicle you own.

Flatbed Towing

Flatbed towing is widely considered the safest option for most automatic vehicles.

With this method, the entire vehicle is loaded onto the truck so none of the tires remain on the roadway.

Benefits include:

• No transmission wear
• Reduced tire wear
• Protection for all-wheel-drive systems
• Safe transportation over long distances
• Lower risk of vehicle damage

Flatbed towing is commonly recommended for luxury vehicles, electric vehicles, sports cars, and vehicles with mechanical failures.

Wheel-Lift Towing

In certain situations, a professional wheel-lift tow truck can safely transport automatic vehicles.

This method lifts either the front or rear wheels off the ground while the remaining wheels roll behind the truck.

Professional operators determine whether this method is appropriate based on:

• Drive wheels
• Vehicle manufacturer recommendations
• Distance being traveled
• Road conditions
• Mechanical condition of the vehicle

When performed correctly using proper procedures, wheel-lift towing can be an efficient solution for many local towing situations.

Why Drivetrain Matters

Not every automatic vehicle is built the same.

Understanding the drivetrain helps determine the safest towing method.

Front-Wheel Drive

Many front-wheel-drive vehicles can be safely transported using specific towing methods, but proper procedures must always be followed.

Rear-Wheel Drive

Rear-wheel-drive vehicles often require different loading techniques to protect the transmission and drivetrain.

All-Wheel Drive and Four-Wheel Drive

Vehicles equipped with AWD or 4WD generally require additional precautions.

Many manufacturers recommend transporting these vehicles on a flatbed because allowing any wheels to rotate independently can damage the drivetrain.

Professional towing companies consult manufacturer recommendations whenever necessary.

Never Assume Every Tow Truck Is the Same

One common misconception is that every tow truck operates identically.

In reality, different situations require different equipment.

Professional towing companies maintain multiple types of equipment to safely transport various vehicles, including:

• Passenger cars
• SUVs
• Pickup trucks
• Motorcycles
• Commercial vehicles
• Specialty vehicles

Using the proper equipment helps protect your vehicle throughout the entire towing process.

Common Reasons Automatic Vehicles Need Towing

Drivers call for towing services for many reasons besides accidents.

Some of the most common include:

Engine Failure

A vehicle that suddenly stalls or won't restart often requires professional towing to a repair facility.

Transmission Problems

Slipping gears, grinding noises, or complete transmission failure make driving unsafe.

Dead Battery

Sometimes a jump start solves the problem.

If not, towing may be necessary for battery replacement or electrical diagnosis.

Flat Tire

A damaged tire without a usable spare may require towing if roadside tire replacement isn't possible.

Overheating

Continuing to drive an overheating engine can cause permanent damage.

Having the vehicle professionally towed may prevent much more expensive repairs.

Why DIY Towing Isn't Worth the Risk

Some drivers consider towing their own vehicle using ropes, chains, or another vehicle.

This approach creates several risks.

Improper towing can lead to:

• Transmission damage
• Brake failure
• Loss of steering control
• Vehicle collisions
• Broken tow straps
• Damage to both vehicles

Without commercial towing equipment and proper training, DIY towing can quickly become dangerous.

Professional towing companies are equipped to transport vehicles safely while following industry best practices.

Preparing Your Vehicle Before the Tow Truck Arrives

While waiting for assistance, there are a few simple steps you can take.

Gather important items such as:

• Vehicle registration
• Insurance information
• Driver's license
• House keys
• Personal belongings
• Prescription medications
• Phone charger

If the vehicle still has electrical power, remove any valuables and make sure the parking brake is released only when instructed by the tow operator.

Most importantly, stay in a safe location away from moving traffic.

Why Professional Towing Protects Your Investment

Modern vehicles are more advanced than ever before.

Today's cars often include:

• Electronic parking brakes
• Advanced safety systems
• Complex transmissions
• Hybrid components
• Electric drivetrains
• Sophisticated suspension systems

Professional towing companies understand how these systems affect transportation procedures.

Using the correct loading angles, secure tie-down methods, and appropriate towing equipment helps reduce the risk of unnecessary damage.

Choosing experienced professionals protects both your vehicle and your peace of mind.

Why Drivers Trust NCT Northern Cross Towing

For more than 30 years, NCT Northern Cross Towing has been the trusted choice for drivers throughout Jerome and the surrounding 250-mile service area.

As a BBB-accredited, owner-operated towing company, we understand that every vehicle deserves careful handling.

Our team provides:

• Local towing
• Long-distance towing
• Emergency towing
• Auto transport
• Roadside assistance
• Light-duty towing

Using clean, modern equipment, we transport vehicles safely and efficiently while providing the professional customer service our community has come to expect.

Whether your automatic vehicle has experienced a mechanical failure, been involved in an accident, or simply won't start, we're available 24 hours a day to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can towing damage an automatic transmission?

Yes, if improper towing methods are used. Professional towing companies use the appropriate equipment to help prevent transmission damage.

Is flatbed towing always the safest option?

For many automatic, all-wheel-drive, luxury, and specialty vehicles, flatbed towing is generally considered the safest transportation method.

Can I tow my automatic vehicle myself?

DIY towing is not recommended unless you fully understand your vehicle's manufacturer requirements and have the proper equipment. Improper towing can cause significant damage.

How do I know which towing method my vehicle needs?

Professional towing operators evaluate your vehicle's drivetrain, condition, and manufacturer recommendations before selecting the safest towing method.

Does NCT Northern Cross Towing provide emergency towing?

Yes. We provide 24/7 emergency towing, roadside assistance, local towing, long-distance towing, and auto transport throughout Jerome and our approximately 250-mile service area.

Call NCT Northern Cross Towing for Safe, Professional Vehicle Transport

When your vehicle breaks down, the last thing you want is additional damage caused by improper towing. Choosing an experienced towing company ensures your automatic vehicle is transported safely using the right equipment for its drivetrain and condition.

If you need emergency towing, roadside assistance, local towing, long-distance towing, or auto transport in Jerome or throughout Southern Idaho, NCT Northern Cross Towing is here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. With more than three decades of experience and a reputation for dependable service, we'll get your vehicle where it needs to go safely and efficiently.