Can I tow an AWD Subaru?
Generally, you should not tow an AWD Subaru with all four wheels on the ground. The safest option is flatbed towing, or a tow setup that is explicitly approved in your owner's manual. Always verify the exact guidance for your model and year with Subaru or your dealer before towing.
Why the question matters
All-wheel drive Subarus share a symmetric drivetrain that relies on a center differential and, in many cases, a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Towing methods that spin the driveline while the engine is off can cause lubrication issues, differential stress, or transmission damage. Because Subaru's recommendations can vary by model and year, owners must consult their specific manual and a dealer for guidance.
What Subaru says about towing AWD models
Subaru’s official guidance for most modern AWD models with automatic transmissions directs against four-wheel-down towing. For manual transmissions, there can be model- and year-specific allowances, but these are not universal. In practice, Subaru typically recommends secure, controlled towing that keeps the drivetrain off the road, such as flatbed towing, to avoid potential damage and warranty complications.
Common towing options for AWD Subarus
Below are the most commonly used methods, along with notes about when they are appropriate. Always confirm the method with the exact model/year manual and a dealer before proceeding.
- Flatbed towing (most universally accepted): The vehicle is loaded onto a trailer so all wheels are off the road. This is the safest option for most AWD Subarus, especially with automatic transmissions, and it minimizes driveline stress.
- Tow dolly towing (front or rear wheels on the ground): Some situations or older guidelines may permit a tow dolly, but this is not universally approved for AWD Subarus. It depends on the model/year and often requires explicit manufacturer approval. Verify with the manual and a Subaru dealer before using a tow dolly.
- Four-wheel-down towing behind an RV (4-down): Generally not recommended or allowed for modern AWD Subarus with automatic transmissions. Some manuals may note exceptions for certain manuals, but these cases are rare and model-specific. Always check your exact guidance first.
Conclusion for towing options: For most AWD Subarus, flatbed towing is the safest and most reliable choice. Other methods require explicit model/year approval and should only be used after consulting the manual and a dealer.
Practical steps to arrange towing
If you need to tow an AWD Subaru, follow these steps to ensure you're compliant and protected:
- Consult the owner’s manual for your exact model/year to understand towing restrictions and procedures.
- Contact Subaru Customer Service or your local dealership to confirm the approved towing method and any required equipment (such as a towing package or transmission precautions).
- If flatbed towing is recommended, hire a professional towing service equipped with a flatbed trailer and proper tie-downs.
- Provide the tow operator with your vehicle’s exact model/year and the recommended method, and confirm insurance coverage for the tow.
Following manufacturer guidance helps protect your drivetrain, maintain warranty coverage, and reduce the risk of damage during transport.
Model-year caveats and exceptions
Guidance can vary by year and transmission type. Here are general considerations to be aware of when evaluating a specific Subaru:
- Automatic CVT AWD models: Typically not suitable for 4-down towing; flatbed towing is preferred unless the manual explicitly allows another method.
- Manual transmission AWD models: Some older or specific model-year combinations may have allowances for certain towing methods, but these are model-year specific and require verification in the manual.
- Future updates: Subaru’s towing guidance can change with new models or transmissions, so always rely on the latest official documentation or a dealership confirmation.
Bottom line: Always verify with the exact model/year manual and a Subaru expert. Do not assume that one towing approach fits all AWD Subarus.
Summary
For most AWD Subarus, the recommended towing method is flatbed towing to avoid drivetrain damage when the engine is off. Four-wheel-down towing is generally discouraged for automatic-transmission models, and any alternative method should be approved by the manufacturer for your specific vehicle. Always consult the owner’s manual and your local Subaru dealer or service center before towing, and consider professional towing for safety and warranty compliance.
Can towing damage an AWD?
Problems arise only when incorrect methods are used, like traditional two-wheel towing, which forces some of the wheels to stay in contact with the ground while the others are lifted. This can cause severe damage to your AWD system because the wheels are designed to work together, not separately.
Is it safe to tow an AWD car in neutral?
No, you should not tow an AWD car in neutral without first consulting your owner's manual, as it can cause severe drivetrain damage. Most modern AWD systems are not designed for flat towing, because internal components can still spin without proper lubrication from the engine, leading to overheating and failure. The safest methods are using a flatbed tow truck or dollies to lift all four wheels off the ground.
You can watch this video to learn why you should not flat tow an AWD car in neutral: 57sFreedom WorxYouTube · Oct 13, 2023
Why towing an AWD car in neutral is dangerous
- Lack of lubrication: When a car is towed with the engine off, the transmission is not being properly lubricated, which can cause overheating and significant damage.
- Drivetrain damage: Even with the transmission in neutral, the all-wheel drive system, including the transfer case and differentials, may still be spinning, which can lead to internal component damage.
- Modern AWD systems: Many modern AWD systems operate differently from traditional 4WD systems and do not have a true neutral position that disconnects the drivetrain.
Safest towing methods
- Flatbed tow truck: This is the safest method because it completely lifts all four wheels off the ground, preventing any part of the drivetrain from rotating.
- Tow dollies: A tow truck can use dollies under the front or rear wheels, with the other set of wheels being lifted by the truck. This keeps all four wheels from rotating while driving.
- Consult your owner's manual: Always check your owner's manual for specific instructions. Some vehicles may have a special "neutral tow" mode, while others will require professional towing.
How to tow a Subaru all-wheel-drive?
Answer : It is generally not safe to tow an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) vehicle with any wheels on the ground due to the risk of damaging the drivetrain. The safest method is using a flatbed tow truck, where all four wheels are lifted off the ground.
Can you tow a car that's AWD?
The safest method for towing an AWD vehicle is using a flatbed tow truck. A flatbed lifts all four wheels off the ground, preventing mechanical damage during transport. Flatbeds are frequently used for this very reason. This option ensures your AWD system stays intact.
