If you drive an AWD, 4WD or low-clearance luxury car, a flatbed tow is the safest option — it protects drivetrains, prevents scraping, and is the choice most manufacturers and pros recommend. This article explains why, how the process works, what to ask your tow company, and how Polina Transporter LLC handles these jobs across New Jersey.
1 — Why flatbed towing matters for AWD & low-clearance cars
All-wheel-drive systems and many modern luxury drivetrains are sensitive to having wheels roll while the engine (and its lubrication / cooling for drive components) is off. A flatbed tow puts the entire vehicle on a platform so no wheels touch the road, which removes the main risk of drivetrain damage for AWD/4WD cars. This is the standard recommendation from towing pros and roadside experts.
Low-clearance and low-profile cars (sports cars, some luxury sedans) are at real risk of scraping the front bumper, air dam, or oil pan when being hooked or winched up on a wheel-lift truck. Flatbeds eliminate that scraping by allowing a gentle, angled ramp and winch pull or drive-on loading.
2 — How a flatbed tow works — simple, safe steps
Here’s the usual sequence an experienced tow crew uses for AWD / low-clearance vehicles:
- Assess & secure the scene: crew sets cones, turns on beacons, and parks the flatbed to allow a safe ramp angle.
- Prep the vehicle: release the parking brake if safe, put car in neutral if the manual allows and the owner’s manual instructs; engage “tow mode” for EVs when required. (Always follow the owner’s manual.)
- Lower the bed & set ramp angle: a hydraulic bed creates a shallow ramp; for very low cars the crew may use boards/shims to raise the ramp entry.
- Winch or drive onto bed: winch cables attach to manufacturer-approved tow points (never to body panels). The car is slowly pulled fully onto the bed.
- Chock & secure: wheels are chocked, and soft straps or wheel nets secure the car at multiple points—done in a way that won’t mark paint or trim.
- Transport with care: the vehicle is driven to destination on the flatbed; speeds and tie-down checks are conservative to avoid sway and bounce.
If any step is unclear for a specific model, the safest course is flatbed transport and strictly following the vehicle’s tow instructions.
3 — Manufacturer guidance & drivetrain safety
Many manufacturers (especially EV makers like Tesla and high-end European brands) document flatbed towing or explicit towing procedures in their owner manuals. For example, Tesla’s manuals show instructions for activating Tow Mode and recommend flatbed methods for safe transport. For specific Audi, BMW, Lexus or other models, owners’ manuals and towing spec databases list approved methods and warnings — always check them before any non-flatbed towing is attempted.
4 — Luxury & low-profile cars: extra care checklist
When you own a luxury or modified low-profile car, small mistakes during a tow can lead to expensive damage. Insist your tow company does the following:
- Use soft straps or wheel nets that won’t rub paint.
- Attach winch cables to approved tow points or the tow eye, not bodywork.
- Use boards or ramp shims on the flatbed for a gentler loading angle if the car sits low.
- Chock wheels twice and use at least three secure tie-down points (industry practice).
- Photograph the car before loading (helps document condition).
If a company insists wheel-lift or dolly towing is “fine” for an AWD or manufacturer-restricted vehicle, ask for written justification or choose a different operator.
5 — Choosing a tow company in New Jersey — what to ask
When you call for a tow truck New Jersey service for an AWD or low-clearance car, ask these quick questions:
- Do you have flatbed trucks on call right now? (Not “maybe later.”))
- Are your drivers trained on low-profile & luxury loading?
- Do you use soft straps/wheel nets and manufacturer-approved tow points?
- What is the estimated ETA and total price (including winch/bed fees)?
- Are you insured for vehicle damage during transport?
New Jersey’s emergency and agency contracts often require vendors to present flatbeds among their fleet; that’s because flatbeds handle the widest range of vehicle types safely. If a company won’t answer these questions confidently, keep calling.
6 — Polina Transporter LLC — how we handle flatbed jobs across NJ
Polina Transporter LLC (polinatransporterllc.com) runs 24/7 towing and recovery across New Jersey, Pennsylvania and New York and keeps flatbeds ready for AWD, low-clearance, and luxury vehicles. We load with manufacturer care in mind, use soft straps and approved winch points, and photograph each vehicle before movement. If you need a tow truck New Jersey service that understands AWD towing and luxury car towing, call our dispatch for a clear, upfront plan.
Quick CTA: Emergency? Polina’s dispatch handles flatbed requests now — specify “flatbed for AWD/low-clearance” when you call.
7 — Helpful enhancements (owner checklist, safety tips, pricing notes)
Owner’s pre-tow checklist (5 things)
- If safe, move the car to a level spot off the traveled way.
- Turn hazard lights on and set the parking brake only if the company instructs.
- Locate your owner’s manual or phone the manufacturer’s roadside line if unsure about towing mode (EVs often require Tow Mode).
- Remove loose gear and note any body damage with photos.
- Ask the dispatcher for ETA and whether they will use a flatbed (insist on it for AWD/low cars).
Safety while waiting
- Stand well away from traffic; keep children and pets in a safe location.
- If you must stay with the car, remain visible and wear a reflective vest if possible.
Pricing note (what affects cost)
Flatbed fees depend on distance, time of day, winching complexity, and ramp/shim needs. Flatbed towing generally costs more than a quick wheel-lift, but the incremental cost is small compared to potential drivetrain or undercarriage repairs.
8 — FAQ
Q: Can my AWD be towed with two wheels on the ground?
A: In most cases, no — unless the owner’s manual explicitly allows it and the procedure is followed precisely. Flatbed is the safe default.
Q: My EV needs a tow — what then?
A: Many EVs require flatbed transport and activation of a Tow Mode. Tell the dispatcher you have an EV and which model it is.
Q: Will a flatbed damage my low car’s bumper when loading?
A: Not if the operator uses ramp shims/boards and winch control. If you’re worried, request a low-profile flatbed and confirm their procedure before they arrive.
9 — Author & review box
Author: Team Polina Transporter LLC — 10 years experience, Polina Transporter LLC
Reviewed by: Lead Operations Manager, Polina Transporter LLC — reviewed for safety accuracy and local NJ compliance.
Published: 17/09/2025
Rating: ★★★★☆ (based on professional safety standards — independent consumer reviews available on our business listing).
- Polina Transporter LLC — 24/7 Flatbed Towing for AWD & Low-Clearance Cars | Serving NJ, PA & NY
- Website : polinatransporterllc.com
- Phone : (908) 357-0903
- Email : polinatransporter@gmail.com
