If your car breaks down or ends up stuck on the side of the road, calling a tow truck is usually the safest and smartest move. But many Australian drivers worry about one thing: will towing void my vehicle warranty? The quick answer is no — towing your car will not void your warranty, as long as it’s done correctly and the wrong method isn’t used. Warranties are there to protect you against manufacturing faults, not punish you for needing help in an emergency.
Still, there are a few important details you should understand, especially when it comes to how your car is towed, who tows it, and what kind of equipment is used. Below, we break down the key points in simple, practical terms.
Does Calling a Tow Truck Affect My Warranty?
In general, simply towing your car does not void a warranty. Manufacturers expect that vehicles may break down, get flat batteries, suffer mechanical issues, or be involved in accidents. Roadside assistance and towing are considered normal parts of vehicle ownership.
However, a warranty claim could be affected if:
- the car was towed incorrectly,
- the wrong towing method caused extra damage, or
- an unlicensed operator used unsafe equipment.
In these cases, the warranty won’t be cancelled entirely, but the manufacturer may refuse to repair damage that came from the incorrect towing, because it wasn’t caused by a factory defect.
What Towing Methods Could Put a Warranty at Risk?
While towing itself doesn’t void a warranty, using the wrong method for your vehicle type can cause damage that won’t be covered. Different makes and models have strict towing requirements, especially modern vehicles with advanced drivetrains.
Here are the most common examples:
1. Towing a Front-Wheel Drive Car Incorrectly
Front-wheel drive vehicles can usually be towed safely with the front wheels lifted off the ground. If someone pulls the car with the front wheels on the road, it may strain the transmission. That type of damage wouldn’t be covered under warranty.
2. Towing an All-Wheel Drive or 4WD the Wrong Way
AWD and 4WD systems have more complex drivetrains. They usually must be transported on a flatbed to prevent internal damage. If they’re towed with any wheels on the ground, the drivetrain can overheat or lock up — and this damage won’t be a manufacturer’s problem.
3. Automatic Cars Towed With Driving Wheels Rolling
Some automatic transmissions are extremely sensitive. If the driving wheels spin while the engine is off, the transmission may lack lubrication. This can cause severe damage that won’t be covered under warranty because it is considered improper handling.
4. Using Tow Ropes or Improvised Equipment
If someone uses a backyard tow setup, the risk of bumper, frame, or undercarriage damage increases. Manufacturers are unlikely to repair damage caused by poor handling.
Does Manufacturer Roadside Assistance Protect My Warranty?
Absolutely. If your vehicle is still under factory warranty, using the manufacturer’s own roadside assistance service is often the safest and simplest option. They know the correct towing procedure for your specific model and only send licensed operators.
Even if you use a private towing company, there’s no issue as long as they:
- follow the correct towing method
- use proper equipment
- avoid causing damage
A professional tow truck operator will always ask the make, model, and condition of your vehicle before choosing the right approach.
Can a Dealer Refuse Warranty Repairs Because a Car Was Towed?
A dealership cannot deny warranty coverage just because you had the vehicle towed. By law, they must show that the towing caused the damage you’re claiming for. If towing was not the cause, they have no grounds to refuse.
For example:
What can be denied:
• If your AWD drivetrain was damaged because it was towed on two wheels.
What cannot be denied:
• If your alternator failed and the car was towed to the dealership afterwards.
The tow didn’t cause the alternator failure, so warranty repairs should be honoured.
Should You Mention the Towing When Making a Warranty Claim?
Yes, always be upfront. If the towing was done professionally and correctly, there is nothing to hide. In fact, giving the service history and tow details helps the repairer understand what happened before the car arrived at the workshop.
How to Make Sure Towing Never Causes Warranty Problems
There are a few simple steps you can take to prevent any issues:
- Choose a licensed professional towing company.
They know towing points, requirements, and correct procedures for different drivetrains. - Tell the tow operator your car’s drivetrain type.
Let them know if it’s AWD, 4WD, hybrid, or electric. - Follow the manufacturer’s towing instructions.
These are usually found in the owner’s manual. - Avoid DIY towing with ropes or chains.
Modern vehicles are not designed for backyard tow jobs. - Ask for a flatbed if unsure.
A flatbed is the safest option for most vehicles today.
These small steps keep your warranty safe and your vehicle protected during transport.
Does Towing Affect Hybrid or Electric Vehicle Warranties?
Hybrid and electric vehicles have very specific towing rules. Many EVs must be transported on a flatbed because their motors can be damaged if the wheels spin while powered off. Incorrect towing can damage battery cooling systems, electric motors, or regenerative braking components.
Again, this won’t void the entire warranty, but the manufacturer may decline to cover the damage from incorrect towing.
Towing Won’t Void Your Warranty — But It Must Be Done Properly
Towing your vehicle after a breakdown, flat tyre, or accident is perfectly normal and won’t cancel your warranty. The only risk comes from improper towing techniques, which can create extra damage that the manufacturer won’t cover. As long as you use a professional towing service and the correct method for your car, your warranty remains completely safe.
Now Any Car Towing is available in Keysborough Victoria 3173.
Contact Us
Any Car Towing
10 Silvergum Pl, Cranbourne VIC 3977
0413 176 223
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