Tesla vehicles must be towed on flatbeds or with all four wheels off the ground using dollies to avoid drivetrain damage. Never flat tow any Tesla model for transport distances.
Here’s why Tesla towing is so different from regular cars: these electric vehicles have motors directly connected to the wheels, and when those wheels spin during improper towing, they generate electricity that can fry expensive components.
Think of it like running a generator backwards, except instead of making useful power, you’re creating heat and resistance that can destroy a $20,000 drivetrain. Tesla knows this, which is why they’re crystal clear about flatbed-only transport or specialized dollying for emergency situations.
While these basics will keep your Tesla safe, there’s much more to master. From activating Transport Mode correctly to understanding model-specific requirements and knowing when to call professionals versus handling it yourself, the wrong move can turn a simple tow into a catastrophic repair bill.
This guide walks you through every scenario you might face as a Tesla owner or towing professional.
Get Expert Electric Vehicle Towing Now
Can You Tow a Tesla?
Yes, Tesla vehicles can be safely towed, but only using specific methods that protect the electric drivetrain. Tesla requires flatbed towing or specialized dolly towing to prevent damage to the electric motor and gearbox that function as a single unit.
Tesla explicitly prohibits flat towing (all four wheels on the ground) for any distance beyond a few feet. This restriction exists because the electric motors generate electricity when the wheels spin, creating internal resistance that can damage the motor permanently.
Professional towing services equipped with flatbed trucks represent the gold standard for Tesla transportation. These services understand the unique requirements and have proper insurance coverage for electric vehicles.
How to Put Tesla in Tow Mode
Activate Transport Mode by touching Controls > Service > Towing on your Tesla’s touchscreen while the vehicle is in Park with the brake pedal pressed.
Transport Mode (also called Tow Mode) is a critical safety feature that prepares your Tesla for safe towing by disengaging the parking brake and preventing the vehicle from automatically shifting into Park when the driver exits.
Activating Transport Mode:
- Ensure your Tesla has at least 5% battery charge
- Touch “Controls” on the touchscreen
- Select “Service”
- Choose “Towing” or “Transport Mode”
- Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm activation
If Your Tesla Has No Power:
When the battery is completely dead, Transport Mode cannot be activated through the touchscreen. In this scenario, professional tow operators use wheel skids or tire skates under the wheels to facilitate loading onto the flatbed without forcing the wheels to turn.
Never attempt to manually disengage the parking brake or force the vehicle to move without proper equipment.
What’s the Correct Method for Towing Each Tesla Model?
All Tesla models follow the same fundamental towing principles, but each has specific considerations based on size, weight, and design features.
| Tesla Model | Preferred Method | Emergency Alternative | Special Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model 3 | Flatbed towing | All four wheels off ground using wheel lifts and dollies (maximum 55 km/34 miles) |
|
| Model S | Flatbed towing | All four wheels off ground using wheel lifts and dollies (maximum 55 km/34 miles) |
|
| Model X | Flatbed towing | All four wheels off ground using wheel lifts and dollies (maximum 35 miles/55 km) |
|
| Cybertruck | Flatbed towing mandatory | Dollies only for very short distances (parking repositioning) |
|
Tesla Model 3 Towing Requirements
The Model 3 represents Tesla’s most straightforward towing scenario due to its simpler suspension system compared to other models. When dollies must be used, the Model 3 requires front wheels to be lifted with rear wheels placed on dollies, and can travel up to 55 kilometers (34 miles) in this configuration.
If Transport Mode cannot be activated due to power issues, operators must use self-loading dollies or tire skates to position the vehicle safely onto transport equipment.
Tesla Model S Towing Requirements
The Model S requires special attention to its sophisticated air suspension system during towing procedures. Before any towing operation, the Model S air suspension must be set to “Very High” position to prevent underbody damage during loading.
While the vehicle can be transported with all four wheels off the ground using dollies for up to 55 kilometers, Tesla specifically states that transporting the Model S with front wheels on dollies is not recommended and should only be done with external steering wheel locks if absolutely necessary.
Tesla Model X Towing Requirements
The Model X shares many towing requirements with the Model S but has a shorter maximum dolly transport distance of 35 miles (55 kilometers). Like the Model S, the Model X air suspension system must be activated to “Very High” setting before towing to maximize ground clearance and prevent damage.
The Model X also requires the same front-wheel dolly restrictions as the Model S, making flatbed transport the strongly preferred method for this larger, heavier vehicle.
Tesla Cybertruck Towing Requirements
The Cybertruck presents unique towing challenges due to its massive size and advanced technology systems. This vehicle requires flatbed trucks that are at least 21 feet long to accommodate its length, and the 48V electrical architecture creates special considerations for jump-starting procedures.
The Cybertruck’s steer-by-wire technology means the steering wheel cannot turn the wheels when the vehicle has no power, making professional handling essential. Unlike other Tesla models, dollies should only be used for very short repositioning distances rather than actual transport.
CAUTION
To tow a Cybertruck, use a flatbed truck with a bed that is at least 21 feet (6.5 meters) long (A).
Universal Requirements for All Models:
- Transport Mode must be activated when possible (allows tire rotation under 3-5 km/h for less than 10-30 meters)
- Never transport with any wheels on the ground for actual distances
- Self-loading dollies or tire skates required if Transport Mode unavailable
- Always secure using eight-point tie-down method to wheels, never suspension components
Can You Flat Tow a Tesla?
No, you cannot flat tow any Tesla model with all four wheels on the ground. Flat towing can cause severe strain on the electric motor, which continues to revolve and generate electrical current, creating internal resistance that can permanently damage the motor.
Why Flat Towing Damages Teslas:
The electric motors in Tesla vehicles are designed to operate when powered and controlled by the vehicle’s computer systems. When towed with wheels on the ground, these motors spin without proper control, generating unwanted electricity that creates heat and internal stress.
Potential Damage from Flat Towing:
- Electric motor overheating and failure
- Battery pack damage from uncontrolled charging
- Drivetrain component wear and failure
- Complete powertrain replacement (costs $15,000-$25,000)
Emergency Exception: Tesla allows moving the vehicle a few feet with all wheels on the ground for positioning purposes only. This should never exceed walking speed and only for the minimum distance necessary.
How to Tow a Tesla With No Power
Tow a Tesla with no power by using wheel skids or tire skates to load it onto a flatbed truck, since the parking brake remains engaged when the battery is completely dead.
A completely dead Tesla presents unique challenges but can still be safely towed using proper procedures, as the vehicle will need specialized loading equipment to move it without forcing wheel rotation.
Step-by-Step Process for Dead Tesla:
Assessment: Verify the 12V auxiliary battery is completely dead (no dashboard lights, no touchscreen response)
Equipment Preparation: Professional tow operators use wheel dollies or skids to move the vehicle without forcing wheel rotation
Manual Release: Some Tesla models have manual parking brake release procedures in the owner’s manual, but these should only be performed by trained technicians
Careful Loading: Use winch systems to pull the vehicle onto the flatbed while it sits on wheel skids
Important Safety Notes:
- Never attempt to jump-start the 12V battery before consulting Tesla service
- The high-voltage system may still be active even when the 12V system is dead
- Professional towing services have specialized equipment for these situations
What Equipment Do You Need to Tow a Tesla?
For Flatbed Towing (Recommended):
- Flatbed tow truck with minimum 10,000 lb capacity
- Wheel straps rated for vehicle weight
- Winch system for loading assistance
- Protective padding for contact points
For Emergency Dolly Towing (All Four Wheels Off Ground):
- Heavy-duty wheel lifts and dollies for all four wheels
- Equipment rated for Tesla’s weight (4,000-5,600 lbs depending on model)
- Maximum distance: 35 miles at manufacturer speed ratings
- Professional towing operators with proper equipment
Never Use Standard Two-Wheel Dollies: Tesla explicitly prohibits standard dolly towing with only front wheels lifted and rear wheels on the ground. This method can cause significant drivetrain damage not covered by warranty.
Emergency Tow Eye Usage: All Tesla models include a removable tow eye for emergency situations. This threaded attachment point is designed only for loading onto flatbeds or moving very short distances at walking speed.
When Should You Call Professional Tesla Towing Services?
Professional towing services with Tesla expertise should be your first choice when you need reliable, immediate assistance for your electric vehicle breakdown.
Professional Tesla Towing Benefits:
- Experienced operators trained in electric vehicle handling
- Proper flatbed equipment guaranteed for safe transport
- Transport to your preferred destination (home, preferred repair shop, Tesla Service Center)
- 24/7 emergency availability
- Insurance billing and documentation support
- Local response times often faster than manufacturer services
Why Choose Professional Towing Over Manufacturer Services:
- No restrictions on transport destinations
- Immediate availability without manufacturer scheduling delays
- Local expertise with area roads and traffic patterns
- Competitive pricing with insurance coordination
- Established relationships with local repair facilities
Critical Requirements for Tesla Towing: Always specify that your vehicle is a Tesla requiring flatbed transport when calling any towing service. Professional towing companies experienced with electric vehicles will have the proper equipment and knowledge to handle your Tesla safely, ensuring all four wheels are properly secured and Transport Mode is activated when possible.
Bottom Line
Tesla towing requires flatbed transportation or professional all-four-wheels-off-ground dollying with proper Transport Mode activation. Never flat tow any Tesla model for transport distances, as this causes expensive drivetrain damage not covered by warranty. When in doubt, use Tesla Roadside Assistance for guaranteed safe transport by trained professionals with appropriate equipment.
The key to successful Tesla towing lies in understanding that these vehicles need special handling due to their electric powertrains. While the procedures may seem complex compared to traditional vehicles, following proper protocols ensures your Tesla reaches its destination safely without costly damage.
Serving Baltimore, Annapolis, Frederick, and statewide with damage-free electric vehicle towing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tesla Towing
Can you tow a Tesla behind an RV?
No, Teslas cannot be flat-towed with all four wheels on the ground behind an RV. This could cause severe damage to the electric motors and powertrain components. If you need to transport a Tesla with an RV, use a trailer that lifts all four wheels off the ground.
Does Tesla insurance cover towing costs?
Tesla insurance policies typically include roadside assistance and towing coverage, but coverage limits vary by policy. Most policies cover reasonable towing costs to the nearest qualified repair facility. Review your specific policy details for exact coverage amounts and restrictions.
What happens if you accidentally tow a Tesla incorrectly?
Incorrect towing can cause catastrophic damage to Tesla’s electric drivetrain, potentially requiring complete motor replacement costing $15,000-$25,000. Warranty coverage typically excludes damage from improper towing, making proper procedures essential.
Can any tow truck driver tow a Tesla?
Only tow truck drivers with flatbed equipment and electric vehicle training should tow Teslas. Standard tow trucks that lift only two wheels are not appropriate for Tesla vehicles except in very specific emergency situations for extremely short distances. If flatbed service is unavailable, the operator must have professional equipment to lift all four wheels off the ground.
How do you know if towing damaged your Tesla?
Signs of towing damage include unusual noises from the drivetrain, error messages on the dashboard, reduced performance, or warning lights. If you suspect damage, have the vehicle inspected by a Tesla-certified technician immediately.
Is it safe to tow a Tesla in winter conditions?
Yes, but extra precautions are necessary. Cold temperatures can affect battery performance and towing equipment. Ensure all equipment is properly rated for winter conditions and allow extra time for loading and securing procedures.
