Tesla and EV Towing in the Coachella Valley
Electric cars should be towed on a flatbed. Call (760) 263-6756 and tell dispatch the car is electric before the truck leaves.
Why EVs go on a flatbed
The motors in most electric cars turn with the wheels. Dragging them on the pavement can spin the motor and damage the drive unit, and some makers say so plainly in the owner's manual. Lifting all four wheels on a flatbed avoids that risk.
Many EVs also have a tow or transport mode that releases the parking lock so the car can be winched onto a bed. Check your manual or touchscreen, and tell the driver if the car will not unlock.
Tell dispatch before the truck leaves
- It is an electric car, and the make and model.
- Whether it has power, the screen works, and the doors and charge port open.
- Whether it is stuck in park or will not release the brake.
If the 12-volt battery is dead, the car may need a jump on the small battery before it can be put in tow mode. Ask dispatch whether that can be done on the spot.
Dead battery or no charge
Running out of charge is a tow, not a jump. A flatbed can carry the car to the nearest charger, your home or a service center. Give dispatch the destination when you call.
Questions
Short answers. For anything else, call and ask.
Can a Tesla be towed on a regular tow truck?
Tesla's owner information calls for a flatbed. Dragging the drive wheels can damage the motor, so ask for a flatbed when you call.
What if my EV will not go into neutral?
Many models have a transport or tow mode in the touchscreen. If the screen is dead, tell dispatch so they bring equipment to winch it onto the bed.
Can you take my EV to a charger?
A flatbed can carry an EV to a charger, a service center or your home. Tell dispatch where you want it dropped.