Towing a Tesla requires a specialized approach to ensure the vehicle’s high-voltage system remains protected. While traditional cars can often be towed with two wheels on the ground, doing so with an electric vehicle (EV) can cause permanent damage to the motors. If you find yourself stranded, following critical safety rules and calling a professional like Quik Tow LLC is the best way to protect your investment.

The Golden Rule: Why You Can’t Tow a Tesla Like a Gas Car

The most important thing to know is that a Tesla should never be towed with its wheels spinning on the road. Unlike a gas-powered car with a neutral gear that physically disconnects the engine from the wheels, a Tesla’s motors are always logically connected.

When the wheels of a Tesla spin, they generate electricity through a process called induction. On the road, this is used for “Regenerative Braking” to charge the battery. However, during a tow, this energy has nowhere to go. If the wheels spin at high speeds while being towed, the motors can overheat, potentially leading to a catastrophic fire or a “bricked” battery. This type of damage is often not covered by insurance and can cost tens of thousands of dollars to repair.

Approved vs. Prohibited Towing Methods

Not all tow trucks are created equal when it comes to EVs. Knowing the difference can save your car from the scrap heap.

• The Gold Standard: Flatbed Towing: This is the only method officially recommended by Tesla. The entire vehicle is lifted onto the back of a truck so that all four wheels remain stationary.
• Wheel Lift and Dollies: In tight spots, a wheel lift truck can be used, but only if “dollies” are placed under the wheels that are touching the ground. The goal is to ensure zero tires are rotating against the pavement.
• Prohibited Methods: You must never use a tow rope, a chain, or a “T-bar” lift that leaves two wheels on the ground. Additionally, “dinghy towing” (towing behind an RV) is strictly forbidden and will immediately void your Tesla warranty.

Tesla Transport Mode: The “Secret” to a Safe Tow

Before a Tesla can be winched onto a flatbed, it must be put into Transport Mode. This mode electronically releases the parking brake and allows the wheels to roll freely at very slow speeds.

To activate it:

Shift into Park.

Press and hold the brake pedal.

On the touchscreen, tap Controls > Service > Towing.

Press and hold the Transport Mode button until it turns blue.

Important Safety Note: Transport Mode is only for moving the car a few feet onto a trailer. You should never exceed 3–5 mph or travel more than 30 feet in this mode. If you need to move it further, the car must be lifted completely.

Model-Specific Towing Requirements

While the basics are the same, different Tesla models have unique hardware needs.

• Model 3 & Model Y: These are the most common and typically use a standard tow eye located in the front bumper.
• Model S & Model X: These often feature air suspension. You must engage Jack Mode in the settings before lifting the car. This prevents the self-leveling suspension from trying to adjust while the car is being secured, which could damage the sensors.
• The Cybertruck Difference: As a heavy-duty truck, the Cybertruck has reinforced front tow hooks integrated into the bumper. Unlike the smaller sedans, you don’t need to screw in a separate tow eye. However, because of its immense weight, it requires a heavy-duty flatbed. The UI also features a dedicated “Towing & Hauling” menu that provides real-time feedback on the vehicle’s status during transport.

What to Do If Your Tesla Has No Power

One of the most stressful situations is a “bricked” Tesla that won’t turn on. If the screen is black, you cannot engage Transport Mode.

In this scenario, you must “jump” the low-voltage system to get the screen working. Behind the small circular tow eye cover on the front bumper, there are two wires (red and black). Connecting an external 12V or 16V power supply to these wires will pop the frunk. Once the frunk is open, a tow professional from Quik Tow LLC can jump the main low-voltage battery, allowing you to access the touchscreen and release the brakes.

If the car still won’t respond, we use wheel skates. These are small rollers placed under each tire that allow the car to slide onto the flatbed without the wheels ever rotating.

Safety Protocol: Preparing Your Tesla for the Tow Truck

Before the truck arrives, take these steps to ensure a smooth process:

Locate the Tow Eye: It is usually stored in the frunk or the trunk’s sub-floor.

Remove Aero Covers: If your wheels have plastic hubcaps, pop them off. This prevents them from being cracked by the tie-down straps.

Use the 8-Point Tie-Down: Ensure the tow operator secures the car by the tires, not by the chassis or suspension arms. Securing the car by the frame can bend the battery casing.

Towing a Trailer With Your Tesla

If you are the one doing the towing, your Tesla is a powerhouse, but it requires strategy. When you hitch a trailer, your car should automatically enter Trailer Mode. This disables some Autopilot features and adjusts the stability control to prevent the trailer from swaying.

Be prepared for “Range Anxiety.” Towing a heavy load generally reduces your driving range by about 50%. If you normally get 300 miles, plan for 150. Also, keep an eye on your battery temperature during long downhill stretches, as the regenerative braking system will be working overtime to hold the weight of the trailer.

Warranty, Insurance, and Cost Considerations

Using an unapproved towing method is the fastest way to void your battery warranty. Tesla’s internal computers log every wheel rotation; if they see the motors were spun at 60 mph while the car was “off,” they will know.

Because of the specialized equipment and training required, EV towing often costs more than a standard tow. However, paying for a professional flatbed service is a small price compared to the cost of a new $20,000 drive unit. When calling a provider, always ask: “Do you have a flatbed and are you familiar with Tesla Transport Mode?”

People Also Ask (FAQ)

Can a Tesla be flat-towed behind an RV?
No. Flat-towing (four wheels on the ground) will cause the motors to overheat and will void your warranty.

Can you tow a Tesla with a dead battery?
Yes, but you must jump-start the low-voltage system first to release the electronic parking brake, or use wheel skates to lift the tires off the ground.

Will towing a Tesla void the warranty?
Not if it is towed on a flatbed according to Tesla’s official guidelines. Using a standard “hook and chain” truck will likely void it.

How much does it cost to tow a Tesla?
Prices vary by distance, but expect to pay a premium for flatbed service and the specialized labor required for EV safety.

How do I tow a Tesla out of a low-clearance parking garage?
This requires a “low-profile” tow truck or wheel dollies. Quik Tow LLC specializes in these difficult recoveries to ensure your car isn’t damaged by low ceilings.

Trust the Professionals at Quik Tow LLC

Towing a Tesla isn’t just about moving a car; it’s about protecting a complex piece of technology. At Quik Tow LLC, our team is specifically trained in EV safety protocols, from Transport Mode activation to 8-point tie-down techniques. We provide 24/7 emergency service across Southern California, ensuring your Tesla gets to the service center safely and without damage.

Don’t risk your battery. Contact Quik Tow LLC today for professional, damage-free EV towing!