How do you tow an AWD car behind an RV?
Towing an all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicle behind an RV can be a bit tricky, but with the right knowledge and preparation, it can be done safely and efficiently. In this article, we will explore the essential steps and considerations to ensure that your AWD car is towed correctly, preventing any potential damage to the vehicle and ensuring a smooth journey.
Understanding AWD Vehicles
All-wheel-drive vehicles are designed to distribute power to all four wheels, which enhances traction and stability. However, this feature can complicate the towing process. Unlike two-wheel-drive vehicles, AWD cars often cannot be towed with all four wheels on the ground without risking damage to the drivetrain.
Steps to Safely Tow an AWD Car
Here are the steps you should follow to tow your AWD vehicle behind an RV:
- Check the Owner's Manual: Always start by consulting the owner's manual of your AWD vehicle. Manufacturers often provide specific guidelines on towing, including whether flat towing is permissible.
- Use a Tow Dolly or Trailer: If flat towing is not recommended, consider using a tow dolly or a full trailer. A tow dolly lifts the front wheels off the ground, while a full trailer carries the entire vehicle.
- Prepare the Vehicle: Before towing, ensure that the vehicle is in neutral and that the parking brake is disengaged. This is crucial for preventing any damage during the towing process.
- Secure the Vehicle: Make sure the vehicle is securely attached to the RV. Double-check all straps and connections to avoid any accidents on the road.
- Monitor the Towing: While driving, keep an eye on the vehicle being towed. Look for any signs of trouble, such as unusual noises or swaying.
Additional Tips for Towing an AWD Vehicle
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when towing your AWD car:
- Consider Weight Limits: Ensure that your RV can handle the weight of the AWD vehicle. Check the towing capacity of your RV to avoid overloading.
- Use Proper Equipment: Invest in high-quality towing equipment, including safety chains and a reliable hitch, to ensure a safe towing experience.
- Practice Before the Trip: If you're new to towing, practice maneuvering with the towed vehicle in a safe area before hitting the road.
- Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated on any changes in towing regulations or best practices to ensure a safe journey.
Conclusion
Towing an AWD vehicle behind an RV requires careful planning and adherence to guidelines to prevent damage and ensure safety. By following the steps outlined above and keeping these tips in mind, you can enjoy a worry-free towing experience on your next adventure. Safe travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you tow a trailer with an AWD vehicle?
The short answer is “yes, but not by much from an overall perspective”. The longer answer; let's look at each phase of towing, starting with manoeuvring such as reversing the trailer. AWD can help here as sometimes a 2WD (rear or front) runs out of traction, particularly when reversing up hills or over a kerb.
Can you tow an AWD car in neutral?
You must tow your vehicle with all four wheels off the ground, such as when using a car-hauling trailer. You can only tow a four-wheel drive vehicle with all wheels on the ground by placing the transfer case in its neutral position and engaging the four-wheel-down towing feature.
Can you tow an AWD vehicle with a tow dolly?
All Wheel Drive – AWD cars should not be used on a tow dolly. In extensive circumstances, just make sure you disconnect the driveshaft.
Why can't you tow an AWD?
While technically it is possible to tow an all-wheel drive vehicle on its wheels, you would need to disengage the driveshaft – which is a complex and expensive procedure only to be performed by a trained mechanic. By doing so, the spinning of the wheels don't have a negative impact on the driveshaft and drivetrain.
How do towing companies tow AWD cars?
With the vehicle secured on a flat platform, the wheels remain stationary, reducing strain on the tires and suspension from road impacts. Flatbed towing is widely recognized as the best method for AWD vehicles, providing effective protection for the drivetrain and stability during transport.
Are AWD vehicles flat towable?
A few different factors determine what vehicles can be flat towed. It all depends if they have specific features from the manufacturer, such as a transmission disconnect and steering lockout override. Generally, AWD and 4x4 vehicles are more prevalent and preferred vehicles for flat towing.
Can you tow an AWD car behind an RV?
For example, many all-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive vehicles cannot be flat-towed — towed with all four wheels on the ground — behind an RV. This is because it will cause damage to the transmission. In other cases, there may be critical cooling systems or protections that only kick on when your vehicle is running.
Do you need a braking system to tow a car behind an RV?
Do I need a braking system when towing a car? Yes, most states require auxiliary braking systems when towing to ensure safety. The system helps stop both the RV and the towed vehicle safely.
Are AWD cars harder to tow?
With all-wheel drive cars such as four-wheel vehicles, it is difficult to tow because all the wheels are drive wheels. It is important to understand that all wheel drives are designed for on-road use and thus make use of front and rear differentials. They are electronically coupled to split power between each axle.
Can you put an AWD vehicle on a tow dolly?
All Wheel Drive – AWD cars should not be used on a tow dolly. In extensive circumstances, just make sure you disconnect the driveshaft.
