Can You Tow an AWD Vehicle in Calgary? What Drivers Need to Know

All-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicles are popular among Calgary drivers because they can provide better traction on snow-covered roads and in changing weather conditions. However, when an AWD vehicle breaks down or is involved in an accident, transporting it requires particular care.

Unlike some front-wheel-drive or rear-wheel-drive vehicles, many AWD models cannot safely be towed with two wheels rolling on the road. Choosing the wrong towing method can damage important drivetrain components and lead to expensive repairs.

If you own an AWD car or SUV, understanding how it should be transported can help you make the right decision when you need roadside assistance.

What Makes Towing an AWD Vehicle Different?

An AWD system distributes power to all four wheels, either continuously or when additional traction is needed. Depending on the vehicle, this system may include a transfer case, centre differential, electronically controlled couplings and other drivetrain components.

When a vehicle is moving, these components work together to distribute power between the wheels.

The problem begins when a tow truck lifts only one axle while the other wheels remain on the road. Depending on the vehicle’s design, the wheels that remain on the ground may continue rotating parts of the drivetrain even though the engine is not running.

This can cause unwanted movement and potentially damage transmission or AWD components.

For this reason, drivers should never assume that an AWD vehicle can be towed in the same way as an ordinary two-wheel-drive car.

Can You Tow an AWD Vehicle With Two Wheels on the Ground?

In many cases, no.

Some AWD vehicles must be transported with all four wheels completely off the ground. Towing them with only the front or rear wheels lifted can cause drivetrain damage.

For example, Mazda’s official vehicle towing guidance states that its AWD vehicle must be transported with all four wheels off the ground. It warns that leaving either axle on the road can damage the drivetrain.

However, towing requirements vary between manufacturers and models. Always check the owner’s manual or ask an authorised technician about the correct procedure for your particular vehicle.

The Safest Ways to Transport an AWD Vehicle

Choosing suitable equipment is one of the most important parts of transporting an AWD vehicle.

1. Flatbed Towing

A flatbed tow truck is often the preferred option for AWD vehicles because the entire vehicle sits on the truck’s platform.

All four wheels remain off the road during transport, reducing the risk of unwanted drivetrain movement.

Flatbed towing can also be useful when:

• The vehicle has suffered drivetrain damage.
• One or more wheels cannot rotate properly.
• The vehicle has been involved in an accident.
• The owner’s manual requires all four wheels to remain off the ground.
• The vehicle needs to be transported over a longer distance.

The exact loading procedure should still follow the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Wheel-Lift Towing With Dollies

A wheel-lift tow truck may also transport certain AWD vehicles when suitable wheel dollies are used.

Dollies support the wheels that would otherwise remain on the road. When the correct equipment is used, all four wheels can remain off the ground during transport.

However, not every wheel-lift setup is suitable for every vehicle. The operator must consider the vehicle’s drivetrain, weight, wheel condition and manufacturer’s towing instructions.

What Can Happen If an AWD Vehicle Is Towed Incorrectly?

Using unsuitable equipment can create several problems.

Drivetrain Damage

The AWD system contains components that are designed to work together. Incorrect towing can cause internal movement that the manufacturer does not permit, potentially damaging the drivetrain.

Transmission Problems

Depending on the vehicle’s design, towing with the wrong wheels on the ground can cause unwanted transmission movement or lubrication-related problems.

Tyre and Wheel Damage

If a wheel is damaged, locked or unable to rotate freely, dragging the vehicle may create additional damage.

More Expensive Repairs

A towing mistake can turn a relatively straightforward breakdown into a more complicated repair. Replacing or repairing drivetrain components may be significantly more expensive than arranging suitable transport from the beginning.

What Should You Tell the Tow Truck Operator?

Before arranging assistance, give the operator accurate information about your vehicle.

Try to provide:

• Make and model: For example, a Subaru Outback, Mazda CX-5 or Audi Q5.
• Model year: Towing instructions can change between model years.
• Drivetrain: Confirm whether the vehicle has AWD or another system.
• Vehicle condition: Explain whether it starts, moves, steers and brakes.
• Wheel condition: Mention any damaged, locked or missing wheels.
• Parking situation: Explain whether the vehicle is in a driveway, roadside location, underground garage or another restricted area.

If you are unsure about the drivetrain, check the vehicle badge, owner’s manual or registration information before arranging transport.

Providing these details helps the operator identify suitable equipment and prepare for the recovery.

What If Your AWD Vehicle Breaks Down on a Calgary Road?

A breakdown can happen anywhere, including Deerfoot Trail, Stoney Trail, residential streets or busy parking areas.

Your first priority should be safety.

Follow these steps:

1. Move the vehicle away from traffic if it can be done safely.
2. Turn on your hazard lights.
3. If possible, stop in a safe location away from moving vehicles.
4. Avoid attempting to drive if the vehicle has serious mechanical or drivetrain damage.
5. Contact a suitable towing service and explain that your vehicle has AWD.
6. Follow the operator’s instructions while waiting for assistance.

If you break down on a busy road or highway, remain aware of surrounding traffic and follow local road-safety guidance. Do not stand in a dangerous position beside the vehicle.

For more advice, read our guide to what to do when your car breaks down on a Calgary highway.

AWD Towing Checklist for Calgary Drivers

Before your vehicle is transported, use this checklist to help avoid common mistakes.

• Confirm that your vehicle has AWD.
• Identify the make, model and year.
• Check the manufacturer’s towing instructions.
• Tell the operator about any damaged or locked wheels.
• Ask whether the proposed equipment is suitable for your vehicle.
• Confirm that the required wheels will remain off the ground.
• Mention any underground parking or access restrictions.
• Check the destination and estimated towing cost before transport.

Being prepared can make the recovery process easier and help reduce the risk of avoidable damage.

Why Choosing the Right Towing Service Matters

Not every vehicle can be transported using the same equipment. AWD cars, luxury SUVs and vehicles with damaged drivetrains may require additional planning before loading begins.

A suitable towing service should ask about your vehicle, understand its condition and select equipment that follows the manufacturer’s recommendations.

In Calgary, road conditions, winter weather and restricted access can also make vehicle recovery more complicated. Sharing accurate information when requesting assistance helps the operator prepare for the job.

If you need help with a breakdown or vehicle transport, visit ARM Towing to learn more about available towing and roadside assistance services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can all AWD vehicles be towed on a flatbed?

A flatbed is a common option for AWD vehicles because it keeps all four wheels off the ground. However, the vehicle manufacturer’s loading and transport instructions should always be followed.

Can a tow truck lift only the front wheels of an AWD vehicle?

Not necessarily. Many AWD vehicles require all four wheels to remain off the ground. Lifting only one axle without suitable dollies may damage the drivetrain.

Is AWD the same as four-wheel drive?

No. AWD and four-wheel drive (4WD) are different drivetrain systems, although both can send power to multiple wheels. Their towing requirements can vary, so check the owner’s manual rather than assuming they use the same procedure.

Can an AWD vehicle be towed if its engine does not start?

Yes. A vehicle that will not start can still be transported using suitable equipment. The operator may need to use additional loading equipment if the transmission, steering or parking brake cannot be operated normally.

Is flatbed towing better for AWD vehicles?

Flatbed towing is often a practical choice because it carries the entire vehicle with all four wheels off the ground. Nevertheless, the correct method depends on the vehicle’s design and condition.

Conclusion

Towing an AWD vehicle requires more attention than simply lifting one end and pulling it away. The drivetrain, transmission and wheel condition all influence how the vehicle should be transported.

For many AWD models, flatbed towing or a suitable wheel-lift setup with dollies is the appropriate solution. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before moving the vehicle.

If your AWD car or SUV breaks down in Calgary, provide the towing operator with accurate vehicle information and make sure the equipment is suitable before transport begins. A little preparation can help protect your vehicle and avoid unnecessary repair costs.