Towing an Electric Vehicle in Montreal: What EV Owners Must Know
Electric vehicles are everywhere on Montreal’s roads β Teslas on the Plateau, Hyundai Ioniq 5s in Griffintown, Chevy Bolts on the South Shore. With EV adoption accelerating across Canada, more Montreal drivers than ever face a question gas-car owners never had to ask: what happens when my electric car needs a tow?, most tow operators reach for the same equipment they would use on a 2005 Honda Civic β and that is where things go catastrophically wrong. EV towing follows different rules than conventional cars. Drag an electric car with wheels on the ground and you can destroy the motor, fry the inverter, or damage the high-voltage battery pack β turning a $200 tow into a $10,000+ repair. This guide explains exactly why EVs need special handling, what each major brand requires, and how to get your electric car tow done safely in Montreal.
β‘ Critical EV Towing Rule
ALWAYS flatbed. NEVER wheels on the ground. Electric motors are directly connected to the wheels. Dragging an EV generates uncontrolled electricity that damages the battery, inverter, and motor β potentially causing a thermal event.
Need an EV tow now? Call (514) 483-6944 β we have EV-trained operators and flatbed trucks ready 24/7.
Why Electric Vehicles Cannot Be Towed Like Regular Cars
The engineering difference is fundamental. In a gasoline car, the engine connects to the wheels through a transmission with a neutral gear that disengages the drivetrain. In an EV, the electric motor is permanently connected to the wheels β there is no traditional neutral that fully disconnects them. Here is what happens when you drag an EV:
π Regenerative Current Generation
When the wheels spin, the motor acts as a generator β converting mechanical energy back into electricity. This is by design (regenerative braking), but during an uncontrolled tow, this current has nowhere safe to go. It feeds back into the battery management system, inverter, and charging circuits in ways the system was never designed to handle.
π₯ Overheating Risk
The uncontrolled current generates intense heat in the motor windings and battery cells. EV battery packs are designed to operate within a narrow temperature range. Excessive heat can trigger thermal runaway β a cascading chemical reaction in lithium-ion cells that can lead to fire. This is not theoretical β it has happened during improper towing.
βοΈ Motor and Inverter Damage
The inverter (which converts DC battery power to AC motor power) can be permanently damaged by reverse current. Motor bearings wear rapidly without the cooling and lubrication systems running. Repair costs: $3,000β$10,000+ for a motor replacement, $2,000β$5,000 for an inverter.
π Battery Pack Damage
Uncontrolled charging from dragging can damage individual cells, trigger safety disconnects, and degrade overall battery health. A full EV battery replacement costs $15,000β$30,000+ depending on the vehicle β often more than the car is worth on older models.
β οΈ Bottom Line: Even dragging an EV a few metres with wheels on the ground can cause damage. There is no safe distance for wheel-down towing of an electric vehicle. Flatbed-only is not a preference β it is a requirement from every EV manufacturer.
EV Towing Rules by Brand: What Your Car Requires
Each EV manufacturer has specific EV towing procedures. Getting them wrong voids your warranty and causes damage. Here are the rules for every major brand on Montreal roads:
Tesla (Model 3, Model Y, Model S, Model X)
Method: Flatbed only. All four wheels off the ground. No exceptions.
Transport Mode: Access via touchscreen: Controls β Service β Towing. This disengages the parking brake and allows free-rolling for flatbed loading. Without it, wheels are locked.
If screen is dead: The 12V battery may be drained. Access the frunk (front trunk) using the manual release, then jump the 12V to restore the touchscreen. Or load using wheel skates/dollies without rolling.
Warning: Tesla towing with any wheels on the ground β even short distances β voids the drivetrain warranty and will cause motor damage.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 / Ioniq 6 / Kona Electric
Method: Flatbed only. All four wheels off the ground.
Preparation: Shift to N (Neutral) before loading if the vehicle can be powered on. Engage the parking brake only after the car is secured on the flatbed.
Note: AWD Ioniq models have dual motors β both axles are connected, making wheel-down towing impossible in any configuration.
Kia EV6 / Kia Niro EV
Method: Flatbed only. All four wheels off the ground.
Preparation: Place in N (Neutral). On EV6 AWD, both motors are permanently connected β no safe wheel-down configuration exists.
Note: Shares the E-GMP platform with Hyundai β identical towing requirements.
Chevrolet Bolt EV / Bolt EUV
Method: Flatbed only. All four wheels off the ground.
Preparation: Shift to N. The Bolt is FWD, but GM explicitly requires flatbed-only towing β the front motor generates current even in neutral.
Note: The owner’s manual states wheel-down towing will cause “drive motor damage not covered by warranty.”
Nissan Leaf / Ariya
Method: Flatbed only. All four wheels off the ground.
Preparation: Shift to N. The Leaf’s motor is directly coupled to the front axle with no disconnect mechanism.
Note: Early Leaf models (2011β2017) with smaller battery packs are especially vulnerable to regenerative current damage during towing.
Ford Mustang Mach-E / F-150 Lightning
Method: Flatbed only. All four wheels off the ground.
Preparation: Activate “Transport Mode” through the infotainment system (Settings β Vehicle β Service Mode β Transport Mode). This puts the vehicle in a low-power state for safe loading.
Warning: The F-150 Lightning weighs 2,900+ kg β ensure the flatbed truck is rated for the weight.
BMW iX / i4 / iX3
Method: Flatbed only. All four wheels off the ground.
Preparation: Activate transport mode via the iDrive system. On the iX, the air suspension must be set to a specific height for flatbed loading.
Note: BMW’s Connected Drive app can unlock the vehicle remotely if the key fob is unavailable β useful for keyless lockout situations.
Regardless of brand, the rule is universal: flatbed only, all four wheels off the ground, every time. If your EV is not listed here, consult your owner’s manual or call us at (514) 483-6944 β our dispatchers verify the correct procedure for your specific vehicle before sending a truck.
Hybrid Vehicles: Do They Need Flatbed Towing Too?
Hybrids fall into a grey area. The answer depends on the type of hybrid:
When in doubt, flatbed. The $50β$100 premium for flatbed towing is insignificant compared to a $5,000+ motor or inverter repair. Our flatbed vs wheel-lift comparison guide explains the cost difference in detail.
Why EVs Break Down in Montreal: The Most Common Reasons
EVs have fewer moving parts than gas cars, but they still break down β and Montreal’s climate creates unique challenges. Here is what sends EV owners calling for a tow:
π‘ Winter Range Tip: Montreal EV owners should plan for 30β40% less range in winter. A car rated at 400 km may only deliver 240β280 km when temperatures drop below β15Β°C. Precondition the cabin while plugged in, use seat heaters instead of the HVAC system, and maintain a charging buffer β do not push below 15% in cold weather.
EV-Trained Operators. Flatbed Fleet. 24/7.
Tesla, Hyundai, Kia, Ford, Nissan, BMW β we know every EV’s towing rules.
(514) 483-6944
What to Do When Your EV Breaks Down in Montreal
Whether you ran out of charge, got a flat, or the car threw a system error, follow these steps:
Pull over safely. EVs lose power smoothly β no engine stalling. You will feel the car decelerating gradually. Use the remaining momentum to reach the shoulder or a safe stopping point.
Turn on hazard lights and stay in the car. The 12V system powers the hazards even when the main battery is depleted. On highways, follow the same safety rules as any breakdown β stay belted, doors locked, and call from inside.
Call for a flatbed tow β specify that your vehicle is an EV. This is critical. Call (514) 483-6944 and tell the dispatcher your vehicle is electric, the exact make and model, and whether the car can be powered on (for transport mode activation). On expressways, call *4141 and specify EV.
Activate transport mode before the truck arrives (if the car has power). This prevents the parking brake from locking the wheels and allows smooth flatbed loading. Check your owner’s manual or the brand cards above for your specific vehicle’s procedure.
Confirm the destination. If you ran out of charge, the nearest DC fast charging station may be your best destination β not a mechanic. For mechanical or electrical issues, the dealership service centre is usually required for warranty-covered repairs. You choose where the car goes.
How Much Does EV Towing Cost in Montreal?
EV towing costs the same as standard flatbed towing β there is no EV surcharge. However, flatbed is required (not optional), so the cheaper wheel-lift option is not available:
The math is simple: $200 for a proper flatbed tow versus $5,000β$30,000 for the damage caused by an improper one. If you have a roadside assistance endorsement or your EV is under warranty with a manufacturer roadside plan, the tow may be fully covered. See our insurance towing guide and our complete towing costs guide for details.
What to Tell the Tow Company When Calling for an EV
The information you provide on the phone determines whether the right truck shows up. Give the dispatcher these details:
π EV Tow Call Checklist
β “My car is electric (or plug-in hybrid)” β say this first
β Year, make, and model (e.g., “2023 Tesla Model Y”)
β Whether the car can be powered on (for transport mode)
β Whether the car is in a safe location or blocking traffic
β The reason for the tow (out of charge, flat tire, error code, accident)
β “I need a flatbed β no wheels on the ground”
β Your preferred destination (charger, dealer, home, mechanic)
β Whether the car has any aftermarket lowering or wide body modifications
EV-Compatible Roadside Services in Montreal
Montreal Towing provides full roadside support for electric vehicles:
π Flatbed towing β The only safe method for EVs. All four wheels off the ground, proper tie-down.
π 12V battery boost β EVs have a 12V accessory battery that powers locks, lights, and the touchscreen. If it dies, a quick boost may restore functionality without needing a tow. See our battery boost vs replacement guide.
π Tire change β Most EVs have no spare tire. We flatbed to a tire shop or, if you carry a repair kit, we can assist with sealant application.
π Car unlocking β Dead 12V battery disabled your keyless entry? We open the door and boost the 12V in one visit.
π‘οΈ Insurance towing β If the tow is accident-related, we bill your insurer directly. Many EV manufacturer warranties also include complimentary roadside assistance β check your warranty terms.
We serve all Montreal neighbourhoods 24/7 β view our service area. For information on safe towing practices, read our towing damage prevention guide and our advice on avoiding towing scams.
Frequently Asked Questions: EV Towing in Montreal
Can you tow an electric car with wheels on the ground?
No. Every major EV manufacturer requires flatbed-only towing with all four wheels off the ground. Dragging an EV causes the electric motor to generate uncontrolled current that can damage the motor, inverter, and battery pack. Even short distances of wheel-down towing can cause thousands of dollars in damage not covered by warranty.
How do you put a Tesla in transport mode for towing?
On the touchscreen, go to Controls, then Service, then Towing. This activates Transport Mode, which disengages the parking brake and allows the wheels to roll freely for flatbed loading. If the touchscreen is unresponsive due to a dead 12V battery, you need to jump the 12V first via the frunk, or the tow operator must use wheel skates to load without rolling.
How much does it cost to tow an electric car in Montreal?
EV towing costs the same as standard flatbed towing β $150 to $250 for a local tow under 10 kilometres, with per-kilometre charges for longer distances. There is no special EV surcharge. However, flatbed is mandatory (not optional), so the cheaper wheel-lift option is not available for electric vehicles.
What happens if my EV runs out of charge in Montreal?
Unlike a gas car that can receive roadside fuel delivery, an EV that runs out of charge needs a flatbed tow to the nearest charging station or to your home charger. There is currently no widespread mobile EV charging service in Montreal. The tow takes your car to a Level 2 or DC fast charger where you can recharge and continue driving.
Do EVs have a 12V battery that can die?
Yes. Every EV has a small 12V battery (separate from the main high-voltage pack) that powers the accessory systems β lights, locks, touchscreen, wipers, and hazard lights. This 12V battery can die from cold weather, age, or parasitic drain, just like in a gas car. A standard 12V battery boost restores these systems and may avoid the need for a tow entirely.
Does my EV warranty cover towing?
Most EV manufacturers include complimentary roadside assistance for the first 4 to 8 years or a set number of kilometres. Tesla, Hyundai, Kia, Ford, and others offer this as part of the new vehicle warranty. Check your warranty documents or manufacturer’s app for details. After warranty, your auto insurance roadside endorsement covers towing if you have it.
Can improper towing void my EV warranty?
Yes. Every major EV manufacturer’s owner’s manual explicitly states that towing with wheels on the ground can cause damage that is not covered by the drivetrain warranty. If your EV is improperly towed and the motor, inverter, or battery is damaged, the manufacturer can deny the warranty claim based on evidence of improper transport.
How much range do EVs lose in Montreal winters?
Expect 30 to 40 percent range loss in temperatures below minus 15 degrees Celsius. A vehicle rated at 400 kilometres in summer may deliver only 240 to 280 kilometres in January. Cold slows the battery chemistry, and cabin heating draws significant power. Preconditioning while plugged in and using seat heaters instead of the HVAC system helps preserve range.
Most EVs don’t have a spare tire β what do I do with a flat?
Most EVs omit the spare tire to save weight and because the battery pack occupies the floor space where a spare would go. If you get a flat, your options are tire sealant (for small tread punctures only), a Transport Canada-compliant temporary repair kit (included with many EVs), or a flatbed tow to a tire shop. Keep the included repair kit in your car and know how to use it before you need it.
Where can I get EV-safe towing in Montreal right now?
Call Montreal Towing at (514) 483-6944 for immediate flatbed towing for any electric vehicle. Our dispatchers verify the correct procedure for your specific EV, and our operators are trained in transport mode activation, 12V boosting, and proper EV tie-down procedures. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week across all Montreal neighbourhoods.
Your EV Deserves an EV-Safe Tow.
Flatbed only. Brand-specific procedures. Trained operators.
Tesla, Hyundai, Kia, Ford, Nissan, BMW, and every EV on Montreal’s roads.
(514) 483-6944