Towing a car with a DCT gearbox?

DavidKlyne replied on 05/04/2020 15:35

Posted on 05/04/2020 15:35

I appreciate that automatic cars with a  torque converter type gearbox are not suitable for towing behind a motorhome, except perhaps on a trailer. However I wondered if the same applied to DCT type gearboxes but not on a trailer? Simple question but probably a complicated answer?

David

Tinwheeler replied on 05/04/2020 21:15

Posted on 05/04/2020 21:13 by davetommo

I have a discovery sport just press the accelerator and it goes. Uses loads more fuel though than the manual one I hade before it.

Posted on 05/04/2020 21:15

But surely that’s not a dual clutch auto?

davetommo replied on 05/04/2020 21:26

Posted on 05/04/2020 21:26

No idea just know it doesn’t have a gearstick and goes when I press the accelerator. And stops when I press the brake

Phishing replied on 05/04/2020 21:31

Posted on 05/04/2020 21:31

Basically as I see it:

Manual OK to tow.

Auto(slushbox) not advised to tow (usually RWD).

Auto DSG,DCT, Powershift etc. OK to tow (select neutral) or lift driven wheels.

 

Towing behind MH is usually city car size and all are FWD so as long as you lift the front or are able to select Neutral then you should be OK. Just make sure there is no hybrid option driving the rear wheels as well, there are some right strange hybrid combinations out there.

Above all else make sure the manual states this or get confirmation from the dealer.

 

EmilysDad replied on 05/04/2020 21:34

Posted on 05/04/2020 21:26 by davetommo

No idea just know it doesn’t have a gearstick and goes when I press the accelerator. And stops when I press the brake

Posted on 05/04/2020 21:34

You need to read DK's original question again. πŸ˜‰

He doesn't want advise on towing WITH an auto, he wants to know if he can tow a DCT auto behind his motorhome. 😎

EmilysDad replied on 05/04/2020 21:36

Posted on 05/04/2020 21:31 by Phishing

Basically as I see it:

Manual OK to tow.

Auto(slushbox) not advised to tow (usually RWD).

Auto DSG OK to tow (select neutral) or lift driven wheels.

 

Towing behind MH is usually city car size and all are FWD so as long as you lift the front or are able to select Neutral then you should be OK. Just make sure there is no hybrid option driving the rear wheels as well, there are some right strange hybrid combinations out there.

 

Posted on 05/04/2020 21:36

city car size and all are FWD 

Smarts drive the rear wheels .... πŸ˜‰

Phishing replied on 05/04/2020 21:38

Posted on 05/04/2020 21:36 by EmilysDad

city car size and all are FWD 

Smarts drive the rear wheels .... πŸ˜‰

Posted on 05/04/2020 21:38

Ahh yes forgot those with the drivetrain in the back.

peedee replied on 06/04/2020 08:20

Posted on 06/04/2020 08:20

I think you would have to be guided by what the manufacturer advised. If you want an automatic those with AGS boxes usually can be towed but again best check with the manufacturer. I have a Suzuki Celerio with an AGS box and the handbook even explains how to tow it behind a motorhome. Unfortunately this model is not produced anymore.

peedee

EmilysDad replied on 06/04/2020 15:16

Posted on 06/04/2020 08:20 by peedee

I think you would have to be guided by what the manufacturer advised. If you want an automatic those with AGS boxes usually can be towed but again best check with the manufacturer. I have a Suzuki Celerio with an AGS box and the handbook even explains how to tow it behind a motorhome. Unfortunately this model is not produced anymore.

peedee

Posted on 06/04/2020 15:16

 But as above eg Merc say a Smart is an auto so shouldn't be towed .... πŸ€”

peedee replied on 06/04/2020 19:37

Posted on 06/04/2020 15:16 by EmilysDad

 But as above eg Merc say a Smart is an auto so shouldn't be towed .... πŸ€”

Posted on 06/04/2020 19:37

I know and I have seen the endless discussions on this on other forums. If the manufacturer says don't tow that is good enough for me. Apart from that it is too small for my requirements. Do as I did shop around for one which can be towed with the approval of the manufacturer.

peedee

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