Hyundai Towing: A Comprehensive Guide

Encountering a situation where your Hyundai needs to be towed can be a stressful experience. Whether it's due to an unexpected breakdown or a planned move, understanding the correct towing procedures is paramount to prevent further damage to your vehicle. This guide will walk you through the essential steps and considerations for towing your Hyundai, ensuring it reaches its destination safely and without incurring costly repairs.

Professional Towing: The Recommended Approach

The safest and most recommended method for towing your Hyundai is to utilise the services of your Hyundai dealer or a reputable commercial tow truck service. These professionals are equipped with the knowledge and specialised equipment to handle your vehicle correctly. They are also generally well-versed in local towing laws and regulations, ensuring compliance and avoiding potential legal issues.

When engaging a tow service, it's always a good practice to provide the tow truck operator with specific information regarding your Hyundai's model and drivetrain (2WD or 4WD). This allows them to select the appropriate towing method. Remember to explicitly request that a safety chain system is used and that all local towing ordinances are strictly adhered to. The ideal scenario for towing is using a wheel lift with dollies or a flatbed truck, ensuring all wheels are clear of the ground.

Crucial Precautions Before Towing

Incorrect towing can lead to significant damage to your Hyundai. Always be aware of the following critical points:

• Transaxle in Neutral: For both manual and automatic transmissions, ensure the transaxle is in the Neutral (N) position. This allows the wheels to rotate freely without engaging the drivetrain.
• Steering Lock: If the engine will not start, the steering wheel may be locked. To unlock it, place the ignition key in the "ACC" (Accessory) position. This allows the steering wheel to turn freely, which is essential for guiding the vehicle during towing.
• Key Position: When towing from the rear without a towing dolly, do not remove the key or leave it in the "LOCK" position. This can prevent the steering from unlocking.

Towing a 2-Wheel Drive Hyundai

Towing a 2-wheel drive (2WD) Hyundai offers a few options, but care must be taken to avoid damaging the vehicle's underbody or bumper.

Using a Wheel Lift Truck

A wheel lift type truck is a common and effective method. Depending on the situation, either the front or rear wheels will be lifted off the ground.

• Rear Wheels on the Ground: If the vehicle is being towed with the rear wheels on the ground, it is imperative to release the parking brake. This prevents resistance during towing.
• Front Wheels on the Ground (with Dolly): If the vehicle is being towed with the front wheels on the ground, or if any loaded wheels or suspension components are damaged, a towing dolly must be used under the front wheels.

Manual Transaxle Considerations

For Hyundai models with a manual transaxle, if you are not using a towing dolly and the front wheels are on the ground, ensure the ignition key is in the "ACC" position and the transaxle is in "N (Neutral)".

Automatic Transaxle Considerations

Vehicles equipped with an automatic transaxle require special attention. A crucial rule is never to tow an automatic transmission Hyundai from the rear with the front wheels on the ground. This can inflict severe damage to the transaxle. Therefore, it is mandatory to use a towing dolly under the front wheels if the front wheels are to remain on the ground.

Flatbed Equipment

The most secure method for towing any Hyundai, especially those with automatic transmissions or when unsure, is using a flatbed towing truck. This ensures all four wheels are completely off the ground, eliminating any potential drivetrain stress or damage.

Towing a 4-Wheel Drive Hyundai

Towing a 4-wheel drive (4WD) Hyundai requires a different approach to protect the complex drivetrain system.

Mandatory Lifting

Your 4WD Hyundai must always be towed with all four wheels lifted off the ground, either by using a towing dolly under all wheels or, preferably, by a flatbed truck. This is non-negotiable to prevent serious damage to the transaxle and the 4WD system.

Prohibited Towing Methods

• Never tow a 4WD Hyundai with any of its wheels on the ground.
• Avoid using a sling-type truck, as this can potentially damage the bumper or underbody of your vehicle.

Emergency Towing Procedures

In situations where professional towing services are unavailable, emergency towing can be attempted, but with extreme caution.

• Attachment Points: Use the designated towing hooks located under the front and rear of your vehicle. Attach your tow cable, chain, or strap securely to these points.
• Surface Caution: Be exceptionally careful when towing on unpaved surfaces, as this can increase the risk of damage to your vehicle's undercarriage.
• Pre-Towing Checks: Do not attempt emergency towing if the wheels, drivetrain, axles, steering, or brakes are damaged.
• Vehicle Preparation: Ensure the transaxle is in neutral and the ignition key is in the "ACC" position (if the engine is off) or the "ON" position (if the engine is running).
• Driver Presence: A driver must be present in the towed vehicle to operate the steering and brakes.
• Speed and Distance Limits: For emergency towing of a 4WD vehicle, limit the towing speed to 10 mph and the distance to no more than 1 mile. Exceeding these limits can cause severe damage.

What if You Lose Your Keys?

Misplacing your keys is an inconvenience, but Hyundai has solutions. Many Hyundai dealerships can create a new key if you know your key number. If you accidentally lock your keys inside your vehicle, dealerships often have specialised tools to open the door without causing damage.

Hyundai Roadside Assistance

Hyundai offers a valuable service through its complimentary Roadside Assistance program. When your vehicle is serviced at an authorised Hyundai repairer according to the correct schedule, you can benefit from additional periods of roadside assistance. This typically extends for 12 months for most models, and 24 months for IONIQ 5 and 6 models, starting from the date of service. This provides peace of mind, knowing help is available when you need it.

Hyundai Towing Capacity and Accessories

While this guide focuses on towing procedures, it's worth noting that Hyundai offers a range of vehicles with towing capabilities. If you plan to tow trailers or other loads, it's essential to consult your vehicle's specific tow ratings and capacity. Hyundai's official shop can also provide necessary towing accessories, such as hitch kits, wiring harnesses, and bumper plates, to ensure safe and compliant towing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I tow my Hyundai with a sling-type truck?

A1: No, it is strongly advised against towing with a sling-type truck as it can cause damage to your Hyundai's bumper or underbody.

Q2: What is the most recommended way to tow my Hyundai?

A2: The most recommended method is to have your Hyundai towed by your Hyundai dealer or a professional commercial tow truck service using a wheel lift with dollies or a flatbed truck, ensuring all wheels are off the ground.

Q3: What should I do if my Hyundai has an automatic transmission and needs to be towed?

A3: If your Hyundai has an automatic transmission, it must be towed with all four wheels off the ground, preferably on a flatbed. If a flatbed is not available, a towing dolly must be used under the front wheels if the front is being lifted.

Q4: Is it safe to tow my 4WD Hyundai with its wheels on the ground?

A4: Absolutely not. A 4WD Hyundai should never be towed with any wheels on the ground, as this can cause severe damage to the transaxle and the 4WD system. Always ensure all four wheels are lifted.

Q5: What should I do if I lock my keys inside my Hyundai?

A5: If you lock your keys inside your car, contact your Hyundai dealer. They often have specialised tools to open the door safely.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that your Hyundai is towed safely and correctly, minimising the risk of damage and ensuring a smooth process, whether it's a planned event or an unexpected roadside situation.