The vehicle configuration determines how to properly tow the car to prevent transmission damage. In particular, either your car has Front or Rear Wheel Drive and that it is Automatic or Manual.
Read the owner’s instruction manual first. It has a section dedicated to the proper towing of your car. Some vehicles are easy to tow, others are advised not to tow at all. Vehicle Manufacturers know best, pay attention to their instructions. With four wheels parked while towing in a FlatBed or a Trailer Towing, the owner just needs to park.
Follow the instructions for Transmission and Rear / Front Wheel Drive:
Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) and Automatic: This is the hardest vehicle type to tow properly. If you are using a Dolly Towing or a 4-wheel on the ground using a Flat Towing with the right equipment, unless you are driving, disengage the driveshaft.
Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) and Manual: Use a Dolly Towing or Flat Towing, leave the transmission neutral and then let it be towed. No need to have special equipment or start the engine.
Front Wheel Drive (FWD) and Automatic: Using a Dolly Towing, the front two wheels are lifted. Just put the car in parking mode. If the four wheels are on the ground using Flat Towing, the vehicle needs to have the correct towing device installed so that the transmission cannot rotate without proper lubrication. Keeping the car neutral will not prevent damage. In any emergency, the car can be turned on and off with a neutral transmission while towing. This keeps the transmission lubricated, but is not recommended for long Towing.
Front Wheel Drive (FWD) and Manual: If the car is on Dolly Towing, shift to first gear and tow. Using Flat Towing, the car has to be neutral and towed. Manual transmission vehicles can usually be towed without driving and no risk of transmission damage.
Some vehicles ignore these rules, so be sure to check your manufacturer's guide before towing your vehicle.
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