Even with careful maintenance and good maintenance habits, engine failure can and does occur. The recent recall of the 6.2L V8 L87 certainly comes to mind. So – if the engine in your GM truck do finally goes “pop”, the question is – how do you get it to a repair facility safely and without causing any damage Again damage? Turns out, the answer goes deeper than just hooking it up and throwing it away.
For starters, modern GM truck models use electronic shifters, electric parking brakes, and other systems that complicate traditional towing methods. Therefore, following the correct procedures is essential to avoid further damage, especially when it comes to remaining under warranty.
The first and most important guideline for disabled GM trucks is the use of a flatbed tow truck. GM explicitly recommends loading the vehicle completely from the ground rather than towing it with the wheels in contact with the road. Before loading, the transmission must be placed in Neutral and the electric parking brake (EPB) must be released to allow the vehicle to roll freely.
If the truck still has a 12 volt battery, this process is relatively easy. Some models may also offer a “Car Wash Mode”, which can help put the vehicle into Neutral depending on whether the vehicle is equipped with a mechanical or electronic shifter.
If the power goes out, the GM truck may not shift into Neutral, and the EPB may remain active. However, according to GM, the vehicle should not be towed with the wheels locked under any circumstances. Instead, the proper approach is to restore 12 volt power, usually via a jump start, so that the transmission shifts into Neutral and the parking brake is released. If power restoration is not possible, the crane operator is instructed to use roller skates or a dolly under the non-spinning wheels, so that they can be moved without causing damage to the drivetrain or tires.
Only special mounting points should be used when securing the truck to the flatbed, and the straps should not be connected to suspension components, the underbody, or other unapproved locations.
While towing a disabled GM truck is now more complicated than ever, relying on a professional tow operator familiar with GM guidelines is the safest bet, ensuring the vehicle is hauled without causing additional (and potentially costly) damage.
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