Automatic, EV, or CVT: How to Tow Cars with Different Transmissions the Right Way

Today’s drivers are used to seeing all kinds of transmissions on the road—not to mention electric vehicles. But when it comes to towing a broken-down car, these differences matter. In fact, both EVs and automatic transmissions can’t simply be towed like a manual car. And among automatics, there are three common types—traditional torque-converter units, robotic or dual-clutch gearboxes, and CVTs—each with its own rules.

Towing a Manual Transmission

Manual cars are the easiest to tow. Just shift the gearbox into neutral, keep your foot ready on the brake, and watch the towline carefully. The lead vehicle should accelerate smoothly, avoid sudden maneuvers, and maintain moderate speed. The towing car should have its headlights on, while the towed car uses parking lights and hazard flashers. These basics apply to all towing situations.

Towing a Traditional Automatic (Torque Converter)

With a conventional automatic, extra care is needed:

• Engine off: Always tow with the engine off.

• Neutral gear: Shift to neutral (N) before towing.

• Speed & distance limits: Check the owner’s manual, but generally stay below 15–30 mph (25–50 km/h) and don’t exceed 20–30 miles (30–50 km).

Exceeding these limits or towing in the wrong gear can overheat and damage the transmission. For long distances, use a flatbed tow truck or stop every 30 miles (50 km) to let the transmission cool.

Towing an Automated or Dual-Clutch Transmission

For single-clutch automated manuals, the process is similar to towing a manual: put it in neutral and proceed cautiously. But keep in mind that when the engine is off, power steering and brake assist stop working—so using a rigid tow bar is safer.

Dual-clutch transmissions (DCTs) are closer to automatics and usually have stricter limits—often no more than 30 miles (50 km), and sometimes towing is prohibited altogether. Many manufacturers explicitly forbid towing DCT-equipped vehicles, so always consult the owner’s manual. In most cases, calling a tow truck is the safest choice.

Towing a CVT

Continuously variable transmissions are among the most delicate. In short: don’t tow them. Most manufacturers require flatbed transport. If the car is front-wheel drive, you can sometimes tow it only by lifting the front wheels completely off the ground or placing them on a dolly. Rear- or all-wheel-drive CVT vehicles generally must never be towed on their wheels.

Towing an Electric Vehicle

EVs also demand special care. Some asynchronous-motor EVs feature a specific tow mode—check the owner’s manual. If your EV doesn’t have the proper motor type or a tow setting, do not tow it on the road. Even short-distance towing can damage the drivetrain. Use a flatbed or specialized transport instead.

Bottom line: When in doubt, use a flatbed tow truck. Towing without understanding your vehicle’s transmission can turn a minor breakdown into a major repair bill.