Towing with Minimal Vehicle Damage: The Right Way to Do It
There was a time when I didn’t think twice about how my car was towed—until I got it back with scratches, a misaligned frame, and transmission issues. Since then, I’ve made it a point to understand how to tow a car safely without causing damage. Whether it’s due to a breakdown, an accident, or a simple relocation, knowing the best towing practices is crucial for protecting my vehicle. In this guide, I’ll walk through the different towing methods, the risks involved, and how to ensure a damage-free tow every time.
United Towing Service Inc.
26170 Adams Ave, Murrieta, CA 92562, USA
1. Understanding the Risks of Improper Towing
Before diving into towing methods, I had to learn what could go wrong if towing isn’t done correctly. The most common problems include:
- Scratched or Damaged Bumpers: Incorrect attachment points can cause scrapes or even rip the bumper off.
- Suspension and Alignment Issues: Poor towing angles can strain the suspension system and misalign the wheels.
- Transmission Damage: Towing an automatic transmission car with its drive wheels on the ground can cause internal damage.
- Frame or Underbody Damage: Hooking onto the wrong tow points can bend the vehicle’s frame or damage its undercarriage.
With these risks in mind, I focused on understanding the safest towing methods.
J & J Towing
4560 N Webster Ave, Perris, CA 92571, USA
2. Choosing the Right Towing Method
The best way to tow a car depends on its condition, drivetrain type, and towing equipment. Here are the most common methods:
2.1 Flatbed Towing – The Safest Option
Flatbed towing is widely considered the safest and most damage-free method. Here’s why:
- The entire vehicle is lifted onto a flat platform, preventing stress on the tires, transmission, and suspension.
- There’s no risk of road debris damaging the undercarriage.
- All-wheel-drive (AWD) and automatic transmission vehicles are protected from drivetrain damage.
If I have the option, I always request a flatbed tow, especially for long-distance transport.
2.2 Wheel-Lift Towing – A Safer Alternative to Traditional Hook and Chain
Wheel-lift towing is another commonly used method, especially in emergency roadside assistance. It works by lifting the front or rear wheels off the ground while the other set rolls freely. This method is safer than hook-and-chain towing because:
- It prevents excessive stress on the frame and bumper.
- It’s a faster and more affordable towing option for short distances.
- It works well for front-wheel-drive (FWD) or rear-wheel-drive (RWD) vehicles.
However, I make sure the drive wheels are lifted off the ground to avoid transmission damage.
2.3 Dolly Towing – An Alternative for Short Distances
Tow dollies are small trailers that lift the front wheels off the ground while the rear wheels remain on the road. I use this method when:
- Flatbed towing is unavailable.
- I need to tow a front-wheel-drive vehicle without harming the transmission.
- I’m moving a car over a short distance.
Since the rear wheels still touch the ground, I ensure the parking brake is disengaged before towing.
2.4 Tow Straps or Chains – The Least Recommended Method
While it may seem like an easy way to tow a car, using tow straps or chains is risky and should only be used in controlled environments. I avoid this method for several reasons:
- If not secured properly, the strap can break and cause a serious accident.
- The lack of braking control makes it hard to stop safely.
- It can cause bumper or frame damage if the attachment points aren’t secure.
I only use tow straps for moving a vehicle a very short distance, such as pulling it out of a ditch.
3. Preventing Damage During Towing
Regardless of the towing method used, I take extra precautions to ensure my vehicle remains in good condition.
3.1 Selecting the Proper Attachment Points
Hooking up the tow equipment incorrectly can damage the bumper or frame. I always check my vehicle’s manual for the designated tow points.
3.2 Using Soft Straps Instead of Metal Chains
Metal chains can scratch or dent my car’s body. When possible, I request soft nylon straps to minimize the risk of cosmetic damage.
3.3 Putting the Transmission in Neutral
For wheel-lift or dolly towing, I ensure the car is in neutral and the parking brake is disengaged. This prevents unnecessary strain on the drivetrain.
3.4 Checking Tire Pressure
Before towing, I inspect my tires to ensure they’re properly inflated. Underinflated tires can cause instability and uneven wear.
3.5 Securing the Steering Wheel
To prevent steering movement during towing, I lock the steering wheel straight if the front wheels are on the ground.
4. When to Call a Professional Towing Service
While I always try to prepare for emergency situations, there are times when I need professional towing assistance. I call a reliable towing company if:
- My car has severe mechanical damage and shouldn’t be driven.
- I need long-distance towing.
- I want to avoid any risk of damage from improper towing.
For damage-free towing, I trust Rescue & Towing. Their professional team uses the best towing techniques to transport vehicles safely and efficiently.
5. Final Thoughts
Understanding the safest towing methods has helped me protect my vehicle from unnecessary damage. Whether using a flatbed, wheel-lift, or dolly, the key is to choose the right method for the situation. If I ever need emergency towing, I rely on Rescue & Towing to get the job done right.
