Wheel lift towing is one of the most common and cost-effective methods for towing vehicles. It involves lifting either the front or rear wheels of a car off the ground while the remaining wheels roll along the road. While this method is ideal in many situations, there are certain cases where wheel lift towing should be avoided. Understanding when not to use this type of towing can save you from potential vehicle damage and ensure a safe towing experience. With this in mind, we at KB Towing Service would like share what every driver needs to know.
Towing All-Wheel-Drive & Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles
One of the primary reasons to avoid using wheel lift towing is when dealing with all-wheel-drive (AWD) or four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicles. These vehicles have power distributed to all four wheels, and towing them with only two wheels on the ground can lead to severe transmission and drivetrain damage. Since the wheels are connected through the drivetrain, towing only half of the vehicle while the other half remains in motion can cause unnecessary wear and tear. In such cases, flatbed towing, where the entire vehicle is lifted onto the truck, is the best option to avoid these risks.
Luxury or Low-Profile Vehicle Towing
Luxury and low-profile vehicles often have sensitive suspension systems and lower ground clearance, making them more susceptible to damage during towing. The mechanics of wheel lift towing involve lifting a portion of the car, which can cause stress on the vehicle’s frame or body. Additionally, there’s a greater chance of scraping the vehicle’s bumper or undercarriage when using a wheel lift, especially over uneven roads or bumps. To protect your luxury or low-profile car, flatbed towing, which keeps the vehicle fully secured, is a much safer alternative.
Towing Vehicles with Damaged or Compromised Wheels
If the wheels or tires of a vehicle are damaged, using wheel lift towing is not advisable. This is because wheel lift towing depends on the functional movement of the two wheels that remain in contact with the road. If any of these wheels are flat, misaligned, or severely damaged, it can result in uneven towing, potentially causing further damage to the vehicle’s suspension or drivetrain. In such scenarios, a flatbed tow truck can lift the entire vehicle off the ground, preventing further harm to the wheels and tires.
Long-Distance Towing
While wheel lift towing is efficient for short distances, it’s not ideal for long-distance towing. The rolling wheels can accumulate wear and tear, and for extended journeys, this can affect the tires and other components. Furthermore, for long distances, the risks of exposure to uneven roads, potholes, or debris increase, which can cause harm to a vehicle if it’s only partially lifted. Flatbed towing is a better choice for long distances since it ensures the vehicle is entirely off the ground, reducing the chances of damage.
Towing Heavy-Duty or Large Vehicles
Wheel lift towing is designed for smaller vehicles, like cars and light trucks, but not for heavy-duty or large vehicles. Towing a heavy vehicle with just two wheels in contact with the road can strain the towing truck and potentially lead to accidents. Large vehicles, such as RVs, buses, or large trucks, require more robust towing methods like flatbed or specialized heavy-duty towing equipment.
Towing & Roadside Assistance Services & More in Rowlett, Garland, Mesquite, Rockwall, Wylie, Sachse & Greater Dallas, Texas
While wheel lift towing is a popular and effective method for many vehicles, it’s important to recognize its limitations. For AWD or 4WD vehicles, luxury cars, those with damaged wheels, long-distance towing, or heavy-duty vehicles, wheel lift towing may not be the best option. Using an inappropriate towing method can lead to costly repairs and even pose safety risks. When in doubt, opting for flatbed towing or consulting with a professional towing company can ensure that your vehicle is towed safely without risk of damage. Contact KB Towing Service when you are in need of towing services in the Greater Dallas, TX area.