Technical data

Vehicle Recovery
172
TOWING FOR RECOVERY
If your car is to be towed, most qualified recovery specialists
will use wheel lift equipment to suspend the front wheels,
while the rear wheels remain on the ground. However, if it is
necessary for the car to be towed with all four wheels on the
ground, abide by the following procedure.
Before being towed:
DO NOT remove the
starter key or turn the
starter switch off while the car is
being towed on four wheels -
this will prevent the steering
wheel from being turned.
1. Turn the starter key to the first position to unlock the
steering and then to the second position to enable the
brake lights, wipers and direction indicators to be
operated if necessary.
If, due to an accident or electrical fault, it is considered
unsafe to turn the starter switch to the first position,
disconnect the battery before turning the switch.
2. Place the gear lever in neutral (‘N’ for cars with
automatic transmission).
3. Release the handbrake.
While being towed observe the following:
•
Without the engine running, greater effort will be
required to operate the brake pedal and turn the steering
wheel. Longer stopping distances will also be experienced.
•
While towing for recovery, the towing vehicle should
never exceed 30 mph (50 km/h).
Automatic transmission cars
Ideally, cars fitted with an automatic gearbox should only be
moved by trailer/transporter, or on suspended tow (with the
front wheels raised).
If these facilities are unavailable and it is ESSENTIAL for the
car to be towed on all four wheels, adhere strictly to the
following:
•
DO NOT allow the car to be towed further than 30 miles
(50 km).
•
Restrict the towing speed to a maximum of 30 mph (50
km/h).