Can I drive in tow mode all the time?
In most vehicles, Tow/Haul mode is intended for towing or carrying heavy loads and is not recommended for constant use in everyday driving. If you regularly tow, you may leave it on; otherwise switch back to normal mode for better efficiency and smoother operation.
What Tow/Haul mode does
Tow/Haul mode adjusts the transmission’s shift points, throttle response, and, in some models, the cooling system to improve control when towing or hauling. It typically keeps gears engaged longer, provides stronger engine braking on descents, and helps prevent transmission hunting with heavier loads. Exact behavior varies by manufacturer and model, so check your owner’s manual for model-specific details.
Is it safe to drive in tow mode all the time?
Most manufacturers frame Tow/Haul as a tool for towing or hauling. Leaving it on all the time won’t usually cause immediate damage, but it can reduce fuel economy, make shifts feel firmer, and increase transmission heat in normal driving conditions. In stop-and-go urban traffic, the mode can feel less smooth and efficient.
Pros and cons of keeping Tow/Haul engaged
Here are the main advantages and drawbacks to consider when using Tow/Haul beyond towing situations:
- Pros: Improved engine braking and control on hills; geared toward keeping the engine in its power band when pulling heavy loads; reduced shift hunting with a trailer.
- Cons: Higher fuel consumption; harsher or less smooth shifts during regular driving; potential for extra heat buildup in the transmission if used without a load.
In practice, Tow/Haul is best reserved for towing or hauling. For normal trips, switching to normal mode usually yields smoother, more efficient driving.
Practical tips for using Tow/Haul mode
Keep these considerations in mind to use Tow/Haul mode safely and effectively when it’s appropriate:
- Engage Tow/Haul when starting with a trailer, climbing steep grades, or descending long hills to maximize control and braking support.
- Disable Tow/Haul when not towing to restore smoother shifts and better fuel economy.
- Monitor engine and transmission temperatures and pull over if you notice overheating signs.
- Ensure proper trailer setup, including brakes, lighting, and weight distribution, to maintain stability.
- Refer to your vehicle’s manual for model-specific guidance and any cautions about automated transmission behavior.
Used thoughtfully, Tow/Haul can improve towing safety and performance, but it’s not a universal substitute for normal driving modes.
Summary
Tow/Haul mode is a specialized setting designed to assist with towing or hauling heavy loads by altering shift behavior, throttle response, and cooling. It is not generally recommended to keep it on all the time for everyday driving due to reduced fuel efficiency and potential wear. Use Tow/Haul when needed, and switch to normal mode for regular trips. Always consult your vehicle’s manual for model-specific guidance.
Is tow haul mode hard on transmission?
On downhills, Tow/Haul mode selects a lower gear for a stronger engine-braking effect. This reduces the demands on the brakes, which reduces the odds of the brake pads or fluid overheating. Second, the gearbox won't shift as much as it would regularly, which helps keep transmission temperatures at a safe level.
Can you ride in your car while being towed?
No, you cannot ride in the car that is being towed by a tow truck. It is not legal in any state for you to ride in the car while it is being towed.
Can you leave your truck in tow haul mode?
On the 2026 Silverado, Tow/Haul mode may stay engaged for up to four hours after the truck is turned off. A reminder is shown if it remains active.
Does towing damage transmission?
Yes, towing a car can damage the transmission if done improperly, particularly if the drive wheels remain on the ground, even if the car is in neutral. This is because the engine-driven oil pump that lubricates and cools the transmission doesn't operate when the engine is off, leading to overheating and friction. The safest methods are using a flatbed truck or a tow dolly to lift the drive wheels completely off the ground.
This video explains why improper towing can damage your car's transmission: 55sWeller Truck PartsYouTube · Apr 10, 2024
How improper towing causes damage
- Lack of lubrication: When an automatic transmission is towed with the drive wheels on the ground, the transmission's internal gears are still turning, but the engine isn't running, so the pump is not circulating the fluid.
- Overheating: The spinning gears generate heat without any fluid circulation for cooling, causing the transmission fluid to overheat and the transmission to suffer significant wear and tear.
- Mechanical stress: This scenario can cause damage to internal components like the main shaft, bushing, and washers due to the speed difference between the spinning gears and the lack of proper lubrication.
How to tow a car safely
- Flatbed towing: This is the safest option because the entire vehicle is lifted off the ground, and no wheels are turning.
- Wheel-lift towing: This method is safe if the correct wheels are lifted. For a front-wheel-drive car, the front wheels are lifted; for a rear-wheel-drive car, the rear wheels are lifted. A tow dolly may be used to keep the drive wheels off the ground.
- Manual vs. automatic transmissions:
- Automatic: Always ensure the drive wheels are off the ground. Some modern automatic transmissions require special procedures even in neutral, and the vehicle's owner's manual should be consulted.
- Manual: Towing in neutral is often considered safe for short distances, but some manuals may still have specific instructions.
- Disconnect the driveshaft: For some vehicles, disconnecting the driveshaft is another way to prevent the transmission from being turned.
