When your vehicle breaks down, and you need a tow, most people focus on distance, cost, or response time. But one of the most important factors a towing service considers is your car’s drivetrain. Whether your vehicle is front-wheel drive (FWD), rear-wheel drive (RWD), four-wheel drive (4WD), or all-wheel drive (AWD), each configuration requires specific towing equipment and techniques to avoid damage. When you call our team for towing service in Amesbury, MA, we’ll ask you what kind of drivetrain your car has. It’s not just because we’re curious. We need to know so we can send out the right equipment and avoid damaging your vehicle.
Why does your towing service in Amesbury, MA, need to know about your drivetrain? Here’s how each type affects how we tow your car.
Front-Wheel Drive
FWD vehicles are among the most common on the road. In these cars, the front wheels handle both steering and power delivery. When towing an FWD vehicle, operators typically lift the front wheels off the ground using a wheel-lift tow truck. This prevents unnecessary wear on the transmission and drivetrain components. In some cases, a flatbed tow truck may also be used for added safety.
Rear-Wheel Drive
RWD vehicles send power to the rear wheels, which means those wheels must be off the ground during towing. Towing companies often use a wheel-lift system to raise the rear wheels while the front wheels roll freely. If done incorrectly—such as towing with the rear wheels on the ground—it can cause serious damage to the transmission. For high-value or performance vehicles, flatbed towing is often preferred.
Four-Wheel Drive
4WD systems distribute power to all four wheels, but they are typically designed for off-road or part-time use. These vehicles require extra care when towing. In many cases, a flatbed truck is the safest option because it keeps all four wheels off the ground. If a flatbed isn’t available, tow operators may use dollies to lift two wheels while ensuring the drivetrain is disengaged.
All-Wheel Drive
AWD vehicles are the most sensitive to towing. Their systems are always engaged, constantly sending power to all wheels. Because of this, towing an AWD vehicle with any wheels on the ground can quickly damage the drivetrain. For this reason, towing services almost always use flatbed trucks for AWD vehicles to prevent costly repairs.
Towing Service in Amesbury, MA | Viking Towing
Understanding your drivetrain helps ensure your vehicle is towed safely and correctly. A professional towing service will ask about your vehicle type before dispatching equipment, helping protect your car from avoidable damage during transport. If you have to call Viking Towing for service in Amesbury, MA, make sure you know what kind of drivetrain you have! It’s one of the questions we’ll ask to ensure we can tow your vehicle safely.
