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A car may need a tow if it breaks down due to mechanical issues, such as engine failure, a dead battery, or a flat tire, making it unsafe or impossible to drive. But, towing a car can be tricky, and when done incorrectly, it can cause even more damage to your vehicle. For example, using the wrong method to tow, attaching the tow ropes or chains in the wrong places, or loading and unloading the vehicle the wrong way can damage the car. Fortunately, these risks are primarily associated with amateur towing efforts.
Effectively towing a vehicle requires training and practice, and attempting to move a car without professional expertise can lead to significant and costly mistakes.
However, the damages caused also depend on the towing methods you use.
Different Towing Methods
Various methods are commonly employed for towing a vehicle, with the three most prevalent being flatbed, dolly, and chain towing.
Flatbed Towing
Method
Flatbed towing is considered the safest and most popular method. In this technique, a truck with a flatbed can either be lowered to the ground or tilted to transport the vehicle. The process starts with positioning the truck, then the vehicle is driven onto the flatbed and secured with chains or straps. When towed in this manner, all four wheels of the car are elevated, reducing wear and tear.
Advantage
The flatbed’s key benefit lies in its ease of loading and unloading in confined spaces. It caters to different vehicle categories like large trucks, sports cars, luxury cars, motorcycles, and SUVs.
Time Savings
- Higher cost compared to other towing methods.
- Weight limitations may restrict the towing of larger vehicles.
- Limited availability in some regions may result in longer wait times.
Dolly Towing
Method
Dolly towing utilizes a small two-wheeled trailer equipped with ramps to tow a vehicle. The ramps lift the front wheels of the car while the back wheels maintain contact with the road.
Advantage
Towing small vehicles becomes easier with dolly towing, eliminating the need for a bulky tow truck. Many RV owners use a towing dolly to tow a compact car behind their RV. It’s a great choice for short-distance towing.
Disadvantage
It’s not ideal for long journeys since it exerts significant pressure on the car’s suspension system.
Hook and Chain Towing
Method
This process involves looping the chain around the vehicle’s frame or axle and lifting one end with a hook.
Disadvantage
Hook and chain towing is not advisable as the metal chain is in direct contact with the car’s body, increasing the risk of scratches, dents, and other damage. This method is generally avoided for towing newer or more delicate vehicles as it can cause more harm than other methods.
Wheel-Lift Towing
Method
Wheel-lift tow trucks simplify the process of picking up stranded cars. In this method, a metal axle (yoke) is attached to either the front or rear wheels of the car, the car is then elevated by a hydraulic or pneumatic lift. After lifting, the tow truck drags the car to its destination.
Advantage
Wheel-lift tow trucks are perfect for quickly towing vehicles over short distances. Providing a quick and efficient solution, they are the top choice for a swift exit from the highway in comparison to other towing methods.
Disadvantage
Wheel-lift trucks are often seen as a riskier choice when it comes to potential damage to your car.
Now that we’ve reviewed the different towing methods, let’s explore the specific types of harm that may be incurred to a car during towing.
Type of Damages That Can Be Caused While Towing A Car
Below are a few examples of damage that can be caused when towing a car.
Car Bumper Damage
Bumper damage is the most common type of damage that a car might get while being towed. This can include the bumper becoming loose, cracked, or even coming off completely.
This happens when the towing service doesn’t position the tow hook properly. If the hook is positioned inaccurately, it can apply excessive pressure on the bumper, leading to cracks or detachment from the car frame.
Also, if the chain is too loose, there’s a risk of your car hitting the back of the tow truck and causing damage to the bumper.
Auto Body Damage
This damage usually occurs due to incorrect towing practices followed by inexperienced tow truck operators. Connecting vehicles to their trucks in an incorrect way can cause exterior issues like scratches, dents, dings, and harm to the wheels and tires.
While these issues may not directly affect a vehicle’s performance, repairing them can be a burden on your wallet. Even when using the services of a professional towing truck, it’s crucial to stay alert and make sure your vehicle is firmly connected to the tow truck.
Transmission Damage
Improper towing methods can also mess up important things inside, like the transmission. It’s typically easy to tow a car with a manual transmission; things become more complex when dealing with automatic transmissions.
If you tow a car with an automatic transmission and all wheels down, it can lead to major damage. To avoid this, experts recommend towing such vehicles with the back wheels on the ground.
It should also be noted that towing a vehicle in “park” can cause skidding and transmission linkages. That’s why a car should only be towed in “neutral.”
In addition to the types of towing and damages that can occur, you should also know your vehicle’svspecifications to reduce risk.
Factors to Keep in Mind if Your Car is Being Towed
To minimize the risk of damages while towing a car, there are certain factors that should be taken into consideration.
Vehicle’s Weight
Before opting for any towing method, make sure that the tow truck can handle your car’s weight. If your car is too heavy for the tow truck, it strains the engine, brakes, and transmission.
Speed of Tow Truck
The speed of the tow truck affects your car’s condition. If the driver goes too fast, it stresses your car and increases the risk of accidents. Choose a reliable towing company with drivers who follow safe practices and appropriate speeds.
Road Condition
The state of the road matters for your car during towing. Rough or uneven roads can cause extra wear on your car’s suspension system and tires.
Type of Transmission
The type of transmission your car plays a role in safe towing. Automatic cars shouldn’t be dolly-towed or chained. The safest way to tow an automatic car is by using a flatbed method or trailer with all the wheels off the ground.
Vehicles with manual transmissions can be towed with all wheels on the ground (flat towing) as long as the car is in “neutral.”
Remember these important details when your car is being towed. Let’s delve deeper and understand how to prevent damage to the car while towing.
How to Prevent Damage to Your Car While Towing?
Here are some techniques you can use to safeguard your vehicle from potential damage during towing:
Put the Car in “Neutral” Gear
Many experts recommend placing your car in “neutral” during towing as it allows for free movement. However, it’s essential to keep the engine running to facilitate the circulation of oil through the transmission.
Generally, putting the transmission in “neutral” for short distances doesn’t lead to damage, making it a relatively safe option for towing.
Ensure Equipment is Properly Secured
Another effective measure to reduce the risk of damage while towing the vehicle is ensuring its proper and secure attachment to the tow truck.
Sometimes, people rush to reach their destination and forget to check if their vehicle is properly hooked up or not, thus resulting in damages. No matter how much of a hurry you are in, it’s crucial not to overlook this step.
Additionally, it’s helpful to know the basics of how different tow trucks work. This knowledge ensures you can properly secure your vehicle, making the towing process safer.
Invest in the Best Equipment
Using top-notch towing equipment is necessary to keep your car safe while it’s being towed. Good quality instruments ensure that the car is properly attached to the truck and the weight is evenly distributed.
If you go with a professional towing service that uses high-quality equipment and knows what they’re doing, it adds an extra layer of safety.
You can follow these steps to reduce risk but the best and safest thing to do is to hire a professional car towing company to avoid damages.
How ACERTUS Can Help?
When it comes to moving non-running vehicles, towing is often the best option. However, improper towing can risk damage to your vehicle. ACERTUS specializes in the safe transport of inoperable vehicles, using professional towing services that ensure your vehicle arrives at its destination without damage. With our highly qualified team and competitive pricing, ACERTUS reduces the risks associated with towing, providing you peace of mind that your vehicle is in expert hands.
Conclusion
In short, towing a car requires careful consideration to prevent potential damages. Knowing the risks of improper towing can spare your car and your wallet. Always opt for a reputable towing company and communicate any specific needs or concerns with the tow truck driver.
Another reliable option is to choose ACERTUS for car shipping services, ensuring your vehicle is transported safely and securely without any additional wear and tear.
Request a commitment-free, online quote today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the safest way to tow a car?
The flatbed method stands out as the safest approach for towing a car. In this method, your car is raised onto a platform, lifting all four wheels off the ground. This significantly reduces the risk of damage during the towing process.
Should I disconnect the driveshaft when towing a vehicle?
If the towed vehicle has an automatic transmission, it’s advisable to disconnect the driveshaft to prevent damage.
Can towing cause overheating in my car?
Yes, a car being towed can potentially overheat. Towing makes the engine work harder, and if the cooling system can’t handle it, the car might overheat.
Are there legal requirements for towing in terms of equipment and speed?
Yes, towing involves adherence to legal requirements, encompassing regulations on equipment, speed limits, and safety measures, which vary from one location to another.
How can I find a reliable towing company in my area?
To find a reliable towing company nearby, consult friends or family for recommendations and check online reviews. You can also inquire with your insurance provider or reach out to local authorities for reliable towing services.
