Can I tow a car with an automatic transmission?
Can a car equipped with an automatic transmission be towed? We often have to think about this question when problems arise on the road. There are many articles in which they write that cars with automatic transmission cannot be towed, let alone used as a tug.
In reality, everything is not as scary as it is described. In any case, each car owner, before starting to operate the vehicle, is obliged to understand its capabilities and characteristics. You will find answers to all such questions in the operating book or directly from the dealer.
Features of the automatic transmission device
On our automotive portal Vodi.su, we have already described the characteristics and differences between an automatic transmission and a manual one, so we will not dwell on this issue in detail.
The mechanical gearbox is designed in such a way that during towing with the engine off, only a pair of gears is spinning, which are responsible for one or another gear. And if the lever is in the neutral position, then only one gear will rotate. Thus, overheating and friction will be minimal. In addition, oil is fed into the box automatically. Accordingly, all gears that are included with each other in the clutch will be lubricated during transportation.
The machine has its own characteristics:
- the oil pump does not work when the engine is turned off, that is, oil will not be supplied;
- all elements of the automatic transmission mechanism will rotate, which is fraught with friction and heat.
It is clear that at very high towing speeds over long distances, the automatic transmission mechanism will experience enormous loads. All this can result in costly repairs.
Basic rules for towing a car with automatic transmission
If, nevertheless, you have problems along the way and you don’t have the opportunity to continue the trip on your own, experts recommend using simple tips.
First of all, try to call a tow truck. This service may be too expensive, but repairing the box will cost even more, so it's not worth saving. If there is no tow truck nearby, follow these recommendations:
- make sure there is enough transmission fluid in the gearbox;
- unlock the steering wheel by turning the key in the ignition;
- put the selector lever in the neutral position;
- monitor the oil temperature in the automatic transmission;
- observe speed limits;
- if you have to tow the car for long distances, from time to time - every 25-30 km make stops so that the box cools down a little.
During towing, transmission oil is consumed about one and a half times more intensively, while it is not cheap, so do not forget to check its level. Also, experienced drivers are advised to use a rigid hitch, rather than a cable, to avoid sharp jerks.
The operating books of almost all vehicle models indicate that the transportation distance should not exceed 30-40 kilometers.
Pay attention to this moment: in no case should you try to start a car with automatic transmission “from the pusher”, since the torque converter may simply not survive such bullying.
If your car is all-wheel drive, then it is better to refuse towing. Such a car can only be transported on a tow truck, or with the rear or front axles raised, that is, by partial loading onto the platform.
Automatic towing of another vehicle
Driver solidarity is an important quality. Often we strive to come to the aid of people whose car won't start. But if you have an automatic, then you need to think twice before towing someone to the nearest service station.
If such a situation arises, then observe the following rules:
- the towed vehicle must not exceed your car in curb weight;
- do not accelerate above 40 kilometers;
- shift the selector lever either to manual control and drive at 2-3 speeds, or put it in position L;
- use a rigid hitch.
You can find more detailed information in the manual for your car. So, for 3-speed automatics, the travel range is limited to 25 kilometers at a speed of 35-40 km / h. A 4-speed automatic allows you to tow other cars for distances up to 100 km at a speed of 60 km/h.
Possible consequences of towing a car with automatic transmission
Since the torque converter is rigidly connected to the engine, it is he, as well as the fluid couplings, that first of all experience the greatest loads.
If you do not follow the rules of towing, you may encounter a number of problems:
- failure of automation;
- gear wear with the wrong gear;
- rapid wear of the internal elements of the gearbox.
Based on the foregoing, try to prevent such situations in advance. Check the condition of the car before each departure. Timely pass diagnostics and technical inspection. Write down in the memory of your phone the numbers of evacuation services in a particular region.
Loading…
