Debunking the Myth: Does Towing Damage Your Vehicle?

Many vehicle owners worry that towing could damage their car, but when performed correctly by trained professionals, towing is a completely safe method of transport. The key is using the right towing equipment and techniques. In this article, we'll explore different types of tow trucks, the role of towing dollies, and how professional towing ensures your vehicle remains damage-free.

Understanding Tow Truck Types and Their Applications

Different situations call for specific tow trucks to ensure a smooth and damage-free tow.

Earl's Wrecker Service rollback truck transports U-Haul U-Boxes under a clear blue sky.

1. Flatbed Tow Trucks (Rollback Tow Trucks)

A flatbed tow truck has a long, hydraulically inclined platform that allows a vehicle to be driven or winched onto the bed.

Applications:

• Transporting severely damaged or inoperable vehicles

• Moving all-wheel-drive (AWD) or four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicles without disengaging the drivetrain

• Safely towing luxury, classic, or low-clearance vehicles

Advantages:

• The entire vehicle is lifted off the ground, eliminating road contact.

• Prevents wear and tear on the tires and drivetrain.

• Ideal for long-distance towing.

  
  
  
  

  

  Earl's Wrecker Service uses a medium-duty wheel lift to tow a large RV that got stuck in a carwash, showcasing their expertise in tricky recovery situations.

  
  

2. Wheel-Lift Tow Trucks (With and Without Dollies)

A wheel-lift tow truck uses a metal yoke that hooks under either the front or rear wheels of a vehicle, lifting them off the ground while the other set remains on the road. However, when necessary, operators can use towing dollies to keep all four wheels off the ground.

Applications:

• Towing vehicles from tight parking spaces or urban areas

• Short- to medium-distance towing

• An alternative to flatbed towing when using dollies

Advantages:

• Faster and more maneuverable than flatbeds, making it ideal for urban towing.

• Dollies allow for safe towing of AWD and 4WD vehicles by keeping all wheels off the ground, eliminating the need for a rollback in many cases.

• Less expensive than flatbed towing for short distances.

  

  Earl's Wrecker Service showcases its fleet of self-loading tow trucks in vibrant colors, ready for action against the backdrop of the service yard.

3. Integrated Tow Trucks (Self-Loaders)

Integrated tow trucks combine features of wheel-lift and boom tow trucks. They have extra axles and a reinforced arm, making them useful for heavy-duty towing.

Applications:

• Towing larger vehicles such as buses, box trucks, and commercial vehicles

• Quick repossession and impound towing

Advantages:

• Stronger and more stable for heavy loads.

• More efficient for quick, short-distance tows.

4. Hook-and-Chain Tow Trucks (Rarely Used Today)

This method uses chains to secure the vehicle by its frame or axle, lifting one end off the ground.

Applications:

• Used primarily for wrecked or junk vehicles headed to the scrapyard

Disadvantages:

• Can cause damage to bumpers and undercarriages

• Not commonly used for modern vehicle towing due to the risk of damage

A damaged car is being transported using dollies instead of a traditional rollback, highlighting a creative towing solution.

The Role of Tow Dollies in Damage-Free Towing

One of the biggest misconceptions about towing is that wheel-lift tow trucks always leave vehicles vulnerable to damage. In reality, towing professionals use dollies—small auxiliary wheels that lift the non-secured wheels off the ground—when necessary.

How Dollies Work:

• The metal yoke secures two wheels to the wheel-lift.

• Tow dollies are placed under the remaining two wheels to lift them off the road.

• This method effectively transforms a wheel-lift truck into a flatbed alternative, keeping all four wheels off the ground.

Benefits of Using Dollies:

• Safe for AWD and 4WD vehicles—prevents drivetrain damage.

• More maneuverable than a flatbed—ideal for tight spaces and city towing.

• Cost-effective—eliminates the need for a full rollback tow when unnecessary.

  
  

Ensuring Damage-Free Towing: Best Practices

While choosing the right towing method is crucial, following best practices ensures the safety of your vehicle:

✔ Proper Training: Tow truck operators undergo extensive training in vehicle handling and securement.

✔ Correct Equipment Use: The right tow truck, accessories, and towing angle prevent damage.

✔ Vehicle Assessment: Professionals check for pre-existing damage and choose the best towing method.

✔ Secure Strapping: Vehicles are tightly secured to prevent movement during transport.

Common Myths About Towing (And The Truth)

🚗 Myth: "Towing Always Damages the Transmission."✅ Truth: Using flatbeds or dollies for AWD/4WD vehicles prevents drivetrain damage. Proper towing techniques ensure the transmission is protected.

🚗 Myth: "Flatbeds Are Always Better Than Wheel-Lifts."✅ Truth: Wheel-lift tow trucks with dollies can be just as safe and are more maneuverable in tight spaces.

🚗 Myth: "Towing Scratches or Dents Vehicles."✅ Truth: Modern towing techniques prevent cosmetic damage, and professionals use soft straps and secure fastening to protect vehicles.

Conclusion

Towing, when performed correctly, does not damage vehicles. The key lies in choosing the right tow truck and using proper techniques, including tow dollies when needed. At Earl’s Wrecker Service, our trained professionals ensure your vehicle is towed safely and securely every time.

Got questions about towing? Give us a call, we’re happy to help! 🚗🔧

910-395-1195