Drivetrain and tow-mode planning
The correct transport method cannot be determined from a general rule such as ‘all cars can be dragged’ or ‘every vehicle uses the same tow mode.’ Owner’s manuals may distinguish emergency transport, recreational towing, loading and movement within a workshop. Tell dispatch the precise model and drivetrain, and make the relevant manual instructions available when possible. If the steering, transmission, parking brake or electronic systems do not function normally, that is part of the transport request. Do not improvise a release procedure on the roadside.
All-wheel-drive towing questions
For an all-wheel-drive vehicle, describe exact model and manufacturer transport requirements. Do not assume wheels can remain on the road during transport.
Four-wheel-drive towing questions
For a four-wheel-drive vehicle, describe transfer-case configuration and current operating state. 4WD modes do not establish a universal towing method.
Front-wheel-drive towing questions
For a front-wheel-drive vehicle, describe model, wheel condition and transmission state. Loading still depends on vehicle condition and equipment.
Rear-wheel-drive towing questions
For a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, describe model, drivetrain condition and any modifications. A drivetrain label alone is not a loading instruction.
Vehicle stuck in park
For a vehicle that will not shift out of park, describe battery state, warning messages and key availability. Do not force a shifter or parking mechanism.
Electronic parking brake will not release
For an electronic parking brake fault, describe model, battery state and brake messages. A failed release may require different loading equipment.
Steering locked before pickup
For locked or inoperative steering, describe key availability and whether wheels can turn. Dispatch needs this information before arrival.
Tow mode on an electric vehicle
For a manufacturer-specific transport mode, describe model, manual instructions and available system power. Transport mode is not a universal permission to tow.
Transmission problem before towing
For a suspected transmission fault, describe symptoms and whether the vehicle rolls in neutral. Do not assume neutral can be selected safely.
Broken driveshaft transport planning
For a damaged driveshaft, describe visible damage and whether the vehicle can roll. Keep clear of damaged driveline components.
Manual transmission transport planning
For a manual-transmission vehicle, describe model, gear selection and wheel movement. Manual transmission does not remove model-specific requirements.
Missing key before a tow
For a pickup without a working key, describe steering lock, transmission state and authorization. No-key loading must be reviewed before dispatch.
Owner’s manual towing instructions
For the vehicle’s manufacturer instructions, describe exact model year and the relevant transport section. Recreational towing and emergency transport are different use cases.
Confirm the service and handoff
Before a vehicle or load moves, discuss the equipment, actual pickup access, destination and receiving contact. Ask what the quote covers and which details remain unresolved. A form or text is a request; wait for dispatch to confirm the arrangement.
Read about the related service, review pricing factors, or send your request. For time-sensitive coordination, call dispatch. Contact emergency services first if there is immediate danger or injury.