This is a question that we get quite often and for good reason–there’s just no blanket answer as to whether or not you can tow an automatic car. Generally speaking, the answer is yes under the right conditions, but this isn’t always the case.
Towing a car with an automatic transmission isn’t as straightforward as it might seem, and doing it the wrong way can lead to serious damage. We’re going to give some general advice here to point you in the right direction, but if you’re looking to tow your own vehicle please check your car’s owners manual for advice specific to your vehicle first. If you don’t have the owners manual, call your local dealership. It could end up saving you thousands.
Now, with that out of the way, let’s look at some general advice you should know before towing an automatic car, and why it’s usually best to leave it to the professionals.
What Happens When You Tow an Automatic Car?
Automatic transmissions are complex systems that rely on transmission fluid circulating through the gearbox to keep everything running smoothly. When your car is turned off, that fluid isn’t moving — which means parts inside the transmission aren’t being properly lubricated.
If you try to tow an automatic car with the drive wheels on the ground (for example, a front-wheel drive car being towed from the rear), you risk:
- Overheating the transmission
- Stripping gears
- Causing long-term mechanical failure
In short: if you tow an automatic car the wrong way, you could end up with a costly repair job.
Can You Tow an Automatic Car While It’s Running?
The common (and reasonable) follow-up question we get on this topic is if the damage happens because the transmission fluid isn’t circulating, can you just leave the car running while it’s being towed?
In theory, having the engine running can help the transmission fluid circulate, but that doesn’t make towing safe. Here’s why:
- It doesn’t fully solve the problem — Even with the engine idling, the transmission isn’t designed to operate under towing conditions.
- It’s still easy to cause transmission damage if the drive wheels are spinning at road speed without proper load and lubrication.
- It’s dangerous — Leaving the engine running during towing increases the risk of overheating or other mechanical failure while in motion.
The bottom line? Leaving the car running doesn’t make DIY towing safe for automatics. The only reliable solution is to tow the vehicle with all four wheels off the ground — ideally with a flatbed tow truck and a licensed operator.
Can You Tow an Automatic Car Yourself?
Plenty of people think they can tow a car themselves using a tow strap. And while that might work in some situations with manual cars, automatic vehicles are a different story.
If you’re considering DIY towing, keep the following in mind:
🚫 Flat towing (all four wheels on the ground):
Most manufacturers don’t recommend this for automatic vehicles unless the car is specifically designed for it — and very few are. Towing in this way can destroy the transmission in just a few kilometres.
🚫 Dolly towing (front wheels off the ground):
This method can work for some front-wheel drive cars, but it’s still risky without the right setup and knowledge.
✅Trailer towing (all wheels off the ground):
This is a viable solution that’s much safer than the other two options above, since all wheels are off the ground and secured in place.
That said, the cost of hiring a car trailer from your local servo often ends up rivalling the cost of a tow truck these days. Not to mention the added time and hassle of hiring the trailer and securing your car safely for the journey.
✅ Flatbed towing (all wheels off the ground):
This is the safest and most reliable way to tow an automatic car. But unless you’ve got a flatbed tow truck handy, this isn’t something most people can manage themselves.
Bottom line? Unless you’re absolutely sure of what you’re doing, it’s not worth the risk. DIY towing could cause more harm than good.
How Professionals Tow Automatic Cars Safely
With our professional towing service, we use purpose-built equipment and experienced operators to safely tow automatic cars across Brisbane and beyond.
Depending on your vehicle’s make, model, and condition, we may use:
- Flatbed tow trucks, which lift the entire car off the road
- Wheel-lift systems, suitable for some front-wheel drive vehicles
- Skates or dollies, when the drive wheels must remain elevated
We always assess the safest method to protect your car’s transmission and avoid damage. That’s the difference between a professional towing service and a backyard job.
Situations Where You Can’t Tow an Automatic (Without a Flatbed)
In some cases, the only safe option is a flatbed truck. These include:
- When the car is stuck in “park”
- If the vehicle is immobilised due to drivetrain failure
- If towing guidelines from the manufacturer require it
Trying to tow a locked or severely damaged automatic car using ropes or basic dollies can cause damage to both vehicles involved. If you’re ever unsure, call a towing professional — it’s not worth the risk.
Cost Consideration: Towing From $99 vs Potential New Transmission
We get it, the current economy is challenging for a lot of people, and saving money has become more of a priority than ever. On this topic though, a professional tow truck can be as cheap as $99. A new automatic transmission will cost thousands to replace if it gets damaged.
Is it worth the risk?
Final Thoughts: Always Check Before You Tow
The safest way to tow an automatic car is to let someone who knows exactly what they’re doing handle it. Before attempting to move your vehicle:
- Check the owner’s manual for towing instructions
- Avoid flat towing unless specifically allowed
- If flat towing is allowed, be sure to follow every single instruction to the letter
- Don’t tow with drive wheels on the ground
- Contact a licensed operator like Rudd’s Towing for advice
We’re available 24/7 to help Brisbane drivers move their vehicles safely and quickly — without the risk of damaging your transmission. We can even give you an exact quote over the phone with zero obligation so you have a clear number to factor in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can towing an automatic car damage it?
Yes — if it’s not done correctly. Towing an automatic car with the drive wheels on the ground can lead to severe transmission damage. Flatbed towing is the safest option.
What’s the safest way to tow an automatic?
Using a flatbed tow truck is the safest method. It keeps all four wheels off the ground and avoids stress on the transmission.
Is flat towing an automatic legal in Australia?
It’s not illegal, but it’s rarely safe or recommended. Most automatic vehicles aren’t designed to be flat towed. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Can I tow my automatic car with a rope?
No. Towing an automatic car with a rope — especially with the drive wheels on the ground — can lead to serious mechanical damage for most models. It’s strongly discouraged, though if you are considering it, check your owners manual first to see if it’s possible.
