Think a Tow Will Break Your Car? Let’s Talk.
We hear it all the time: “Isn’t towing bad for your transmission?” It’s one of those myths that hangs around, passed from one driver to the next like roadside folklore. But let’s set the record straight. A tow truck service, when done correctly, doesn’t destroy your transmission. But poor technique and bad decisions do. The reality is, modern vehicles are built with towing in mind. Many even come with factory tow packages and guidelines for how much they can safely pull. Problems only creep in when drivers ignore those limits or skip essential steps, like shifting into neutral or disconnecting the driveshaft on certain vehicles. As Willow Run towing experts, we know transmission damage during towing isn’t inevitable, it’s preventable. And that’s a fact worth knowing.
The Real Culprits Behind Transmission Trouble
We’ve been in the towing game long enough to know that most transmission issues blamed on towing actually start before we ever hook the vehicle up. Overheating, worn-out fluid, poor maintenance… these are the real threats hiding under the hood.
If a vehicle’s transmission is already on its last legs, a tow might be the moment things finally snap. But that’s correlation, not causation. Properly executed towing doesn’t add stress; it actually prevents further damage by keeping a broken vehicle from limping along and making things worse.
Common Myths We Hear All the Time
- “Flatbed towing is the only safe way.”
Not true. While flatbeds are great, wheel-lift towing works perfectly for many vehicles — especially front-wheel drive ones — when done by trained pros. - “Towing overheats the transmission.”
It can, but only if the vehicle is being driven while towing something heavy. If your car is being towed with the drive wheels off the ground, heat isn’t a factor. - “Towing with an automatic is always risky.”
Not if you’re doing it right. Most modern automatics are built to handle towing within their rated capacity.
What Actually Matters During a Tow
Our Willow Run towing team tows vehicles every single day, and we’ve learned that the smallest details matter the most. Things like:
- Knowing your vehicle’s drivetrain
- Using the correct tow method (flatbed, wheel-lift, or dolly)
- Disengaging the transmission, when required
- Communicating with the tow operator about your car’s condition
If you’re ever unsure, ask. A good tow operator won’t just show up and hook up, they’ll take a minute to check what your vehicle needs and adjust their approach.
Trust Nationwide Towing for Willow Run Towing Done Right
At Nationwide Towing, we’ve seen just about everything on the roads of Willow Run and beyond. And when it comes to Willow Run towing, we’ve built our reputation on doing things right: not rushing, not cutting corners, and never taking risks with your vehicle. Our drivers know the difference between a car that can roll and one that needs a little extra care. And as experienced Willow Run towing operators, we never assume.
If you’ve been worried that calling for a tow will hurt your vehicle, let us put your mind at ease. Towing doesn’t have to mean transmission trouble. Not when you call the right Willow Run towing crew! We’ve got the gear, the know-how, and the common sense to get your car off the road and where it needs to go without making things worse. That’s the kind of service Willow Run towing should stand for: careful, informed, and always done right.
Call us next time you’re stuck. We’ll get you moving. No myths, no drama.
FAQ
Does towing automatically damage a transmission?
No, towing does not automatically harm your transmission. Damage typically happens when improper methods are used or when a vehicle is already experiencing mechanical issues.
Can you tow an automatic car safely?
Yes, automatic cars can be towed safely if the proper precautions are taken, such as using the right tow method and knowing the drivetrain layout.
What’s the safest way to tow a car?
The safest method depends on the vehicle. Flatbed towing is often preferred, but wheel-lift and dolly methods are also safe when used correctly.
Is it bad to tow a car in park?
Yes, towing a car in park can cause serious damage. The drive wheels should be off the ground or the transmission properly disengaged.
How do I know if my car needs special towing instructions?
Check your owner’s manual or consult a towing professional. Some vehicles require specific steps like disconnecting the driveshaft.
Will towing a car with a dead battery hurt the transmission?
No, towing a car with a dead battery won’t harm the transmission as long as the vehicle is properly prepared and towed using the correct method.