Towing an Automatic Car: What to Know

Why automatics are different

With a manual gearbox, you can disconnect the engine from the drivetrain by pressing the clutch. With an automatic, a lot depends on the transmission fluid, which is only properly circulated while the engine runs. If the wheels turn with the engine off, the transmission can be damaged. That's why many manufacturers say: only with the selector in position N, only short distances, only slowly.

The rules of thumb

• Position N: this is the only way an automatic vehicle can be towed over a short distance, since it disconnects the engine from the driven wheels.
• Short distance, low speed: many manufacturers allow only a few kilometres to the nearest garage and a maximum of around 50 km/h. Longer distances or higher speeds almost always cause transmission damage.
• Read the owner's manual: it states whether and how your model may be towed.

If the selector lever is stuck

Without power, for example with a flat battery, the selector often can't be moved out of position P. Many vehicles have a mechanical manual release for the selector-lever lock. Its location varies by model, usually under a small cover on the selector lever or in the centre console. The owner's manual describes it. Vehicles with an electronic selector or rotary dial have other workarounds.

Why loading is often the better choice

On a flatbed vehicle, the wheels don't turn. The transmission stays unstressed, and you don't need to worry about position N or a maximum distance. If the selector lock is stuck, please tell us on the phone. We'll then work out how the vehicle can be loaded. Also tell us that it's an automatic and which position the lever is in.

What to tell us

• Make, model and year
• Which position the selector is in (P, N, D)
• Whether the engine runs or the battery is flat
• Whether it's a hybrid or electric car, see Towing an electric car

General rules for towing with a rope are in our guide Tow rope or towing service?