All-wheel drive vehicles offer excellent control and performance—especially in Gatineau’s icy winters.
But when it comes to towing, AWD vehicles need specialized care. Using the wrong equipment doesn’t just put your car at risk—it can destroy your transmission. If you drive an AWD vehicle in Gatineau, here’s what you need to know before calling for a tow.
1. What Makes AWD Different?
AWD systems send power to all four wheels—either continuously or as needed. Unlike FWD or RWD, all wheels are linked through your transmission and differentials. Towing improperly—with wheels on the ground—can cause stress across the entire drivetrain, even if the vehicle is off.
2. Improper Towing Can Cause Serious Damage
Dragging an AWD car can lead to:
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Transfer case failure
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Transmission overheating
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Cracked housings or warped gears
Because internal parts spin without lubrication, friction builds fast—resulting in thousands in repair costs.
3. Flatbed Towing Is the Gold Standard
The safest method is a flatbed tow truck, which lifts all four wheels off the road. This eliminates drivetrain stress, protects your transmission, and ensures damage-free transport—whether you’re going across Gatineau or out of town.
4. Tow Dollies May Be Used—with Caution
In some cases, trained professionals may use tow dollies with wheel-lift systems to safely lift drive wheels. But this method:
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Doesn’t work for all AWD setups
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Requires exact knowledge of your vehicle’s drivetrain
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Should only be done by experienced operators
5. Always Tell Dispatch Your Vehicle Is AWD
When calling for a tow in Gatineau, mention your drivetrain. This allows dispatch to:
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Send the right truck (flatbed or dolly-equipped)
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Avoid delays or damage
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Get you back on the road safely
It’s a small step that protects your vehicle from big problems.
Final Thought
AWD cars are built for power, not shortcuts. Improper towing isn’t just risky—it’s expensive. When you call a Gatineau towing service, choose professionals who know your vehicle type and use the right equipment from the start. It’s the difference between getting towed safely—or paying for a new transmission.