Can a front-wheel-drive car be towed on its rear wheels?
Yes, a wheel lift can raise the driven front wheels while the undriven rear wheels roll on the road. Do not lift only the rear, because that leaves the front wheels turning the transaxle with the engine off.
Why the front end goes up
- A front-wheel-drive car sends power through its front wheels and transaxle. The rear wheels are not driven.
- A front wheel lift stops both driven wheels from rotating. Only the free-rolling rear wheels remain on the pavement.
- Lifting the rear creates the opposite result. Both driven front wheels then turn the transaxle throughout the tow.
- This makes front-wheel drive the simplest drivetrain for a wheel lift when every wheel is intact and rolling.
- Front collision or suspension damage can block a secure front lift. That damage, rather than the drivetrain, usually forces a flatbed.
- The owner’s manual still controls the method. Some front-wheel-drive models restrict towing regardless of which end is raised.
The normal front-wheel-drive setup
- A front wheel lift raises both driven wheels and lets the undriven rear pair roll.
- A flatbed carries the car when front damage prevents safe lifting or the manual requires full support.
- Dollies or skates support a rear wheel that is locked, damaged, or unable to roll.
What to check before the car moves
- Confirm front-wheel drive in the manual or vehicle records.
- Tell the operator about front collision, wheel, steering, or suspension damage.
- Check whether both rear wheels roll and the parking brake releases.
- Confirm that the wheel lift is raising the front, not the rear.
Keep the front wheels off the pavement
A rear-only lift leaves the driven front wheels spinning the transaxle. That can rotate transmission parts without the engine-driven lubrication expected during normal travel.
Front-wheel-drive towing questions
Which wheels stay on the road during a front wheel lift?
The undriven rear wheels stay on the road and keep rotating. The driven front wheels remain raised and stationary.
Can a front-wheel-drive car be lifted from the rear?
Not with the front tires left on the pavement. A rear lift needs dollies under the driven front wheels, or the car needs a flatbed.
Does every front-wheel-drive car need a flatbed?
No. A front wheel lift usually works when the manual permits it and both rear wheels roll freely.
When does front damage require a flatbed?
Use a flatbed when collision or suspension damage prevents secure front lifting. Loading equipment can keep the damaged area from dragging.
Can the owner’s manual override this setup?
Yes. Some models prohibit wheel-down towing or give a different procedure. Follow the section for the exact year, model, and trim.
Talk it through with an operator
Have the year, make and model ready, whether the vehicle rolls and steers, where it is parked, and where it needs to go.
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