Towing a Ford Mustang Mach-E!

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Towing a Ford Mustang

The Ford Mustang Mach-E represents a bold leap into the electric future, blending the iconic Mustang spirit with cutting-edge EV technology. As these innovative vehicles become increasingly common on Ontario’s roads, including in our local Aurora community, understanding the specific requirements for Towing a Ford Mustang Mach-E is crucial. Unlike their gasoline-powered predecessors, electric vehicles (EVs) have unique considerations when it comes to roadside assistance and transport. For owners, knowing these details can prevent costly damage; for towing professionals like Pars Towing, it’s about providing the specialized, safe, and efficient service these advanced vehicles demand.

1. The Ford Mustang Mach-E: A New Breed of Mustang

Before diving into towing specifics, it’s essential to appreciate what makes the Mach-E different. This isn’t your traditional pony car. The Mach-E is an all-electric SUV, featuring a powerful electric drivetrain, a large high-voltage battery pack, and sophisticated electronic systems. It comes in various configurations, including rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD), each with its own nuances for towing.

Key Differences Affecting Towing:

  • Electric Motors: Unlike internal combustion engines, electric motors in an EV are directly connected to the wheels. Rotating these motors without proper lubrication or power can cause damage.
  • High-Voltage Battery: The massive battery pack is located under the floor, making it vulnerable to impact if not handled correctly during loading or recovery.
  • Regenerative Braking: This system uses the electric motors to generate electricity during deceleration, meaning that simply rolling the wheels can potentially generate current, which can damage components if not managed properly.
  • Electronic Parking Brake: The Mach-E, like many modern vehicles, uses an electronic parking brake that requires 12V power to disengage.
  • No “True” Neutral: Unlike traditional transmissions, EVs often lack a mechanical “neutral” gear that fully disengages the drivetrain for prolonged towing.

These characteristics mean that the “old ways” of towing a Ford Mustang (e.g., using a tow dolly with two wheels on the ground) are often unsuitable, and potentially damaging, for the Mach-E.

2. The Golden Rule of Towing a Ford Mustang Mach-E: Flatbed or Bust!

For almost all scenarios, the definitive answer to towing a Ford Mustang Mach-E is: flatbed towing only. This is the recommendation directly from Ford and is critical for protecting the vehicle’s intricate drivetrain, battery, and electronic systems.

Why Flatbed Towing is Essential for the Mach-E:

  • Protects the Drivetrain: With a flatbed, all four wheels of the Mach-E are lifted off the ground. This completely eliminates any rotation of the electric motors, preventing potential damage from lack of lubrication, overheating, or uncontrolled power generation due to regenerative braking.
  • Safeguards the Battery Pack: The high-voltage battery is a significant component. A flatbed ensures the entire vehicle is transported level, minimizing any stress or potential impact to the battery casing, which could occur with uneven loading on a dolly.
  • Avoids Unwanted Mileage/Wear: No wheels on the ground means no mileage accumulates on the odometer, and no wear and tear on tires or suspension components during transit.
  • Prevents Electronic System Errors: Improper towing methods can trigger warning lights, fault codes, or even permanent damage to the Mach-E’s sensitive electronic control units.

Attempting to tow a Mach-E using a two-wheel tow dolly (lifting only two wheels) or flat-towing (all four wheels on the ground) for anything more than very short, low-speed emergency movements can lead to severe mechanical damage and, crucially, void the vehicle’s warranty. This is a non-negotiable point for Ford.

3. Emergency Towing Mode and Other Critical Considerations

While flatbed towing is the primary method, the Ford Mustang Mach-E does have specific procedures for emergency situations that allow for limited, very short-distance, low-speed movement before a flatbed arrives.

3.1. Emergency Tow Mode (Neutral Hold)

If your Mach-E is inoperable or needs to be moved a short distance (e.g., onto a flatbed, out of traffic), Ford has designed an “Emergency Tow Mode” (also referred to as Neutral Hold or Transport Mode).

How to Activate Emergency Tow Mode (General Steps – Always Consult Owner’s Manual):

  1. Ensure 12V Power: The Mach-E requires its 12V auxiliary battery to be charged and functional to engage Emergency Tow Mode. If this battery is dead, it must be jump-started first. There are remote jump points under the front bumper/frunk area to access the 12V system.
  2. Access on Touchscreen: With the vehicle powered on (at least in accessory mode), navigate to the “Settings” menu on the infotainment touchscreen.
  3. Find Vehicle Settings: Look for “Vehicle” settings, then “Towing” or “Emergency Tow.”
  4. Activate & Shift to Neutral: Press and hold “Emergency Tow” until a confirmation message appears. Then, apply the brake pedal and shift the rotary shifter to “N” (Neutral).
  5. Confirm & Release Parking Brake: A confirmation message should appear in the instrument cluster. Once confirmed, release the electronic parking brake.
  6. Vehicle Stays in Neutral: The Mach-E will typically remain in this neutral mode for a limited time (e.g., 30 minutes) or until it’s shifted back into “Park.”

Important Notes for Emergency Tow Mode:

  • Limited Use: This mode is strictly for short-distance, low-speed maneuvers (e.g., onto a flatbed, off a road). Ford specifies maximum distances (e.g., 50 miles/80 km) and speeds (e.g., 35 mph/56 km/h) for this type of towing. Pars Towing always recommends flatbed for any significant distance.
  • Prioritize Connections: Before activating Emergency Tow Mode and releasing the parking brake, ensure the Mach-E is securely connected to the tow truck or winch to prevent uncontrolled rollaway.
  • Re-engage Park/Brake: Once the vehicle is on the flatbed, always shift it back into “Park” and engage the parking brake for transport.

3.2. Dead 12V Battery Scenarios

A dead 12V battery is a common reason for a Mach-E to become inoperable. Without 12V power, the car cannot be put into neutral, the doors might not unlock, and the parking brake will remain engaged.

  • Jump-Starting: Familiarize yourself with the jump-starting procedure for the Mach-E, which involves using remote terminals located under the front bumper or in the frunk area. This 12V power is distinct from the main high-voltage battery.
  • Manual Frunk Release: Know how to manually open the frunk (front trunk) if the 12V battery is dead to access jump points or charging cables.
  • Professional Assistance: If you’re unsure or uncomfortable jump-starting an EV, or if the vehicle remains unresponsive, it’s always best to call a professional service like Pars Towing. Our technicians are trained in the safe handling of electric vehicles, including jump-starting and accessing critical systems.

4. Specialized Equipment and Expertise for EV Towing

Towing a Ford Mustang Mach-E, or any EV, isn’t just about having a flatbed. It requires specialized equipment and trained operators.

  • Flatbed Tow Trucks: Modern flatbeds designed for low-clearance vehicles are ideal. The Mach-E, with its battery pack located beneath the floor, benefits from a gentle loading angle to prevent scraping or damage.
  • Wheel Straps and Securement: The use of proper wheel straps that secure the tires directly to the flatbed is crucial. These are often preferred over axle straps to minimize contact with sensitive suspension or drivetrain components. Ford explicitly recommends “8-point carrier retention ONLY” and “wheel straps only” for the Mach-E.
  • Dollies for Access (Limited Use): In extremely tight spaces or situations where the Mach-E cannot be driven onto the flatbed (e.g., wheels seized, severe damage), specialized car dollies (like GoJak or similar equipment) might be used by trained professionals to move the vehicle short distances onto the flatbed. This is distinct from using a “tow dolly” for long-distance towing.
  • EV-Specific Training: Tow truck operators need specific training on EV architecture, high-voltage safety, and manufacturer-specific towing procedures. Understanding the Mach-E’s neutral mode, 12V jump points, and potential hazards (e.g., thermal runaway in damaged batteries, although rare) is paramount. Pars Towing invests in this training for our team.

5. Why Choose Pars Towing for Your Mustang Mach-E in Aurora & Ontario?

At Pars Towing, serving the Aurora area and all of Ontario, we understand that your Ford Mustang Mach-E is more than just a car; it’s a significant investment in cutting-edge technology. When you need towing a Ford Mustang Mach-E, you need a service that understands its unique requirements and prioritizes its safety.

5.1. Expertise in Electric Vehicle Towing

Our team is continuously trained on the latest protocols for electric vehicle recovery and transport, including specific guidelines for the Ford Mustang Mach-E. We know how to safely activate emergency tow modes, jump-start 12V systems, and secure your EV without causing damage to its battery, motors, or sensitive electronics.

5.2. State-of-the-Art Flatbed Fleet

Pars Towing operates a modern fleet of flatbed tow trucks, many equipped with low-angle ramps or air-ride suspensions, ideal for safely loading and transporting vehicles with low ground clearance like the Mach-E. Our trucks are regularly maintained to ensure reliability and safety.

5.3. 24/7 Emergency Response in Aurora & Beyond

Whether your Mach-E has a dead 12V battery in your Aurora driveway, runs out of charge on a rural Ontario highway, or is involved in an accident, Pars Towing offers 24/7 emergency roadside assistance. Our rapid response team is ready to deploy with the right equipment, minimizing your wait time and stress.

5.4. Damage-Free Towing Guarantee

We employ industry best practices for securement, including the proper use of wheel straps and safety chains, ensuring that your Mach-E arrives at its destination without a scratch. Our commitment to damage-free towing is a cornerstone of our service.

5.5. Comprehensive Roadside Assistance

Beyond towing, Pars Towing offers a full suite of roadside assistance services that are relevant to Mach-E owners:

  • Battery Boost (12V): For those times when the 12V auxiliary battery is dead and preventing your Mach-E from starting or going into neutral.
  • Tire Changes: For flats, although the Mach-E typically doesn’t have a spare and relies on a tire repair kit.
  • Winch-Outs: If your Mach-E is stuck in mud, snow, or a ditch, our winching services can safely recover it.
  • Emergency Transportation: We can get you and your vehicle to a charging station, a Ford dealership, or your preferred repair shop.
 Towing a Ford Mustang

5.6. Understanding Ontario Regulations

We are fully compliant with all Ontario towing regulations, ensuring that our operations are not only safe but also legally sound. This includes proper licensing, transparent pricing, and adherence to the Towing and Storage Safety and Enforcement Act (TSSEA).

6. Tips for Ford Mustang Mach-E Owners in Ontario

Being a proactive EV owner can make a big difference if you ever need towing.

  • Read Your Owner’s Manual: This is the most crucial piece of advice. Familiarize yourself with the “Towing Your Vehicle” and “Emergency Towing” sections. Understand how to activate Emergency Tow Mode and locate the 12V jump points.
  • Keep Your 12V Battery Healthy: A dead 12V battery is a common issue that can render your Mach-E inoperable. Consider a 12V battery tender if the vehicle is stored for long periods.
  • Know Your Roadside Assistance Options: Understand your FordPass or Ford Roadside Assistance benefits. They will typically dispatch a flatbed tow truck.
  • Save Pars Towing’s Number: For reliable, local, and professional EV towing services in Aurora and throughout Ontario, save our number (e.g., [Insert your Pars Towing phone number here]). We are ready to assist 24/7.
  • Be Aware of Charging Infrastructure: While not directly related to towing, knowing where charging stations are located, especially along your routes, can help prevent range anxiety and the need for a tow due to a depleted main battery.
  • Inform the Dispatcher: When calling for a tow, always clearly state that you have an electric vehicle, specifically a Ford Mustang Mach-E. This allows the towing company (like Pars Towing) to dispatch the appropriate flatbed truck and trained personnel.

Conclusion

The Ford Mustang Mach-E is an incredible vehicle, bringing performance and sustainability together in an exciting package. However, its advanced electric drivetrain necessitates a distinct approach when it comes to towing. For the safety of your vehicle and the peace of mind of its owner, flatbed towing is the unequivocally recommended method for Towing a Ford Mustang Mach-E.

As pioneers in the electric vehicle revolution, we at Pars Towing are committed to providing the highest standard of specialized EV towing services. Whether you’re in Aurora, facing an unexpected breakdown, or need transport for your Mach-E anywhere in Ontario, you can trust our experienced team and state-of-the-art flatbed fleet to handle your electric Mustang with the care and expertise it deserves. Don’t risk costly damage with improper towing methods. When in doubt, call Pars Towing – your reliable partner for safe and professional EV transport.

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