How to Tow a Rear Wheel Drive Car: And Why It Might Feel Like Herding Cats

Towing a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) car is not as straightforward as it might seem. Unlike front-wheel-drive vehicles, where the driven wheels are typically lifted off the ground, RWD cars require a bit more finesse to avoid damaging the drivetrain. Whether you’re dealing with a classic muscle car, a sleek sports car, or a rugged pickup truck, understanding the nuances of towing a rear-wheel-drive vehicle is crucial. And let’s be honest, sometimes it feels like you’re trying to herd cats—unpredictable, stubborn, and occasionally chaotic. But fear not, because this guide will walk you through the process step by step, ensuring that your car (and your sanity) remain intact.

1. Understand the Basics of Rear-Wheel Drive Mechanics

Before you even think about hooking up a tow rope or calling a tow truck, it’s essential to understand how a rear-wheel-drive car works. In RWD vehicles, the engine’s power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a driveshaft. This setup is common in performance cars and trucks because it offers better weight distribution and handling. However, it also means that towing the car incorrectly can lead to significant damage, especially to the transmission and differential.

When towing a RWD car, the key is to avoid putting stress on the drivetrain. If the rear wheels are left on the ground while the car is being towed, the rotation of the wheels can cause the transmission to spin without proper lubrication, leading to overheating and potential failure. This is why knowing the right towing method is critical.

2. Choose the Right Towing Method

There are several ways to tow a rear-wheel-drive car, and the method you choose will depend on the situation, the type of vehicle, and the equipment available. Here are the most common options:

Flatbed Towing

Flatbed towing is the safest and most recommended method for towing a RWD car. With this method, the entire vehicle is loaded onto a flatbed truck, ensuring that all four wheels are off the ground. This eliminates any risk of drivetrain damage and is ideal for long-distance towing or transporting high-value vehicles.

Dolly Towing

A tow dolly is a two-wheeled trailer that lifts the front wheels of the car off the ground while the rear wheels remain on the road. While this method is better than towing with all four wheels on the ground, it’s not ideal for RWD vehicles. The rear wheels will still be rotating, which can cause transmission issues over long distances. However, for short distances, a tow dolly can be a viable option.

Two-Wheel Towing (Not Recommended)

Towing a RWD car with only two wheels on the ground (typically the front wheels) is generally not recommended. This method leaves the rear wheels—and thus the drivetrain—exposed to potential damage. If you must use this method, ensure that the transmission is in neutral and the parking brake is disengaged. However, this should only be done as a last resort and for very short distances.

3. Prepare the Vehicle for Towing

Once you’ve chosen the appropriate towing method, it’s time to prepare the car. Here’s a checklist to ensure everything goes smoothly:

• Check the Owner’s Manual: The manufacturer’s guidelines are your best friend when it comes to towing. Some RWD cars have specific instructions or restrictions that you need to follow.
• Disconnect the Driveshaft (if necessary): For certain vehicles, especially older models, disconnecting the driveshaft may be necessary to prevent transmission damage. This is a more advanced step and should only be done if you’re confident in your mechanical skills.
• Secure Loose Items: Make sure all loose items inside the car are secured or removed. This includes anything in the trunk, as sudden stops or turns during towing can cause items to shift and potentially damage the interior.
• Turn Off the Alarm System: If your car has an alarm system, make sure it’s turned off to avoid unnecessary noise or complications during the towing process.

4. Hire a Professional or DIY?

Deciding whether to tow the car yourself or hire a professional depends on your experience, the equipment you have, and the complexity of the situation. If you’re not confident in your ability to tow the car safely, it’s always better to call a professional towing service. They have the right equipment and expertise to handle the job without risking damage to your vehicle.

On the other hand, if you’re experienced and have access to the necessary tools (like a flatbed trailer or tow dolly), you can save money by towing the car yourself. Just make sure you follow all safety precautions and double-check everything before hitting the road.

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Towing a RWD car can be tricky, and even small mistakes can lead to big problems. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Towing in Park: Never tow a RWD car with the transmission in “Park.” This can cause severe damage to the transmission. Always shift to neutral if the rear wheels are on the ground.
• Ignoring Weight Limits: Make sure your towing equipment (like a tow dolly or trailer) can handle the weight of your car. Exceeding weight limits can lead to equipment failure and accidents.
• Skipping the Owner’s Manual: Every car is different, and the owner’s manual will have specific towing instructions tailored to your vehicle. Ignoring these guidelines is a recipe for disaster.

6. Why Towing a RWD Car Feels Like Herding Cats

Let’s circle back to the title of this article. Why does towing a rear-wheel-drive car feel like herding cats? Well, much like cats, RWD cars have a mind of their own. They require careful handling, attention to detail, and a bit of patience. One wrong move, and things can go sideways (sometimes literally). But with the right knowledge and preparation, you can tame the beast and get your car where it needs to go—safely and efficiently.

FAQs

Q: Can I tow a rear-wheel-drive car with all four wheels on the ground?
A: It’s not recommended, especially for long distances. Doing so can cause significant damage to the transmission and drivetrain.

Q: What’s the best way to tow a RWD car?
A: Flatbed towing is the safest and most effective method, as it keeps all four wheels off the ground.

Q: Can I use a tow dolly for a RWD car?
A: Yes, but only for short distances. For longer trips, a flatbed is a better option to avoid transmission issues.

Q: Do I need to disconnect the driveshaft before towing?
A: It depends on the vehicle. Check the owner’s manual for specific instructions. Some older models may require this step.

Q: What should I do if I don’t have the right equipment to tow my RWD car?
A: Call a professional towing service. They have the expertise and equipment to handle the job safely.