Towing a car might seem frustrating, but it’s not as complicated as you think. If you’re helping a friend with a broken-down car or need to move your vehicle, knowing how to tow a car safely and correctly is important. In this guide, we’ll break it down step by step so you can easily and confidently tow a vehicle with no hassle.

Why Would You Need to Tow a Car?

No matter the reason, following the right steps ensures everyone stays safe, and the car gets to its destination without any damage; there are many reasons you might need to tow a vehicle, such as:

  • The car has broken down due to accidental damage and can’t be driven.
  • You need to move a vehicle that doesn’t have proper registration or insurance.
  • The car is stuck in mud, snow, or off-road terrain
  • A fuel leakage that can cause serious safety hazards.
  • When the car breaks down and leads to traffic blocking, requiring to be moved to a safer location.
  • The vehicle has a flat tyre and cannot safely move on the roadside.
  • Illegal parking in a prohibited site on private property without taking permission must be removed.
  • Unpaid parking tickets impound vehicles, leading to towing a car.
Need to Tow Car
Step-by-Step Procedure


What You’ll Need to Tow a Car?

Before you start towing, you need to ensure that you have the right equipment. The following elements will be required.

  • A strong, durable tow rope, strap, or chain is essential. It helps in handling the weight of the car you’re towing.
  • Tow Bar or Dolly is a great option for long-distance towing. A tow bar attaches to both cars securely, while a tow dolly lifts the car’s front wheels off the ground.
  • The towing car and the car being towed should have working brake lights and indicators. You can use magnetic tow lights if the towed car’s lights don’t work.
  • Gloves can protect your hands while handling the tow rope or chain. It’s also a good idea to wear a reflective vest if you’re towing at night or on a busy road.

How to Tow a Car: Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Plan Ahead

Before you start towing, plan your route. If possible, avoid busy roads and highways. Stick to slower-speed roads where you can take your time.

Step 2: Check Both Vehicles

Ensure the towing vehicle is in good working order, especially the brakes and tyres. Inspect the car being towed for any loose parts or damage that could worsen during towing.

Step 3: Connect the Tow Rope or Chain

Attach the tow rope, strap, or chain to the designated towing points on both cars. These are usually located under the front and rear bumpers. Ensure the rope or chain is tight enough to avoid sudden jerks during towing but not so tight that it can’t move freely.

Step 4: Set Up Lights and Signals

If the car being towed has working lights, make sure they are turned ON. If not, attach magnetic tow lights to the back of the car being towed. It ensures other drivers can see your signals.

Step 5: Assign Roles

If someone is driving the towed car, they should:

  • Keep the ignition turned on to unlock the steering wheel and brakes.
  • Lightly apply the brakes to help control the car and prevent it from rolling too close to the towing vehicle.
  • Accelerate gently and avoid sudden movements.
  • Apply brake slowly to give the towing car time to respond.

Step 6: Start Towing

Begin slowly and carefully. Towing requires extra patience and focus. Maintain a steady speed. Driving at a fast speed can make it hard to control both vehicles. Use signals well in advance to let other drivers know your intentions.

Step 7: Monitor Constantly

Both drivers should stay alert and communicate if possible. If anything feels off like the rope becoming loose or the towed car swaying, stop immediately and fix the issue.


Tips for Safe Towing

Stick to Low Speeds: Towing is safest at lower speeds, usually around 15 mph. High speeds can make controlling both vehicles harder.

Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep a larger-than-usual gap between the towing vehicle and other cars. In this way, you get more time to stop or react.

Avoid Sudden Turns or Stops: Smooth movements are key. Jerky turns, or hard braking can damage the tow rope or make the towed car skid.

What to Avoid While Towing?

Overloading the Towing Vehicle: Never tow a car heavier than the towing vehicle’s capacity. It can strain the engine and brakes.

Using a Weak Tow Rope or Chain: A damaged or weak rope can snap during towing, which is dangerous. Always inspect your towing equipment beforehand.

Towing in Bad Weather: Rain, snow, or fog makes towing riskier due to slippery roads and poor visibility. Wait for better weather if possible or call for professional assistance.

When to Call for Professional Help?

If you’re not confident about towing a car or don’t have the right equipment, it’s best to call a towing service. The professional service providers have the expertise and tools to tow any vehicle, whether short-distance or long-haul safely.

Conclusion

Towing a car doesn’t have to be stressful. You can pull a vehicle safely and efficiently with the right preparation, equipment, and patience. Remember to follow these steps carefully, prioritise safety, and don’t hesitate to seek expert assistance if needed. Now that you know how to tow a car, you’ll be ready the next time you or someone else needs one.