Let’s face it—car troubles never come with a warning sign. Your car will break down when you least expect it. On top of it, if you struggle to find roadside assistance or a tow truck nearby, your only option might be to tow the car yourself.
But here’s the reality check: towing a car with another car isn’t as easy as it sounds. If you end up doing it the wrong way, you’ll damage your car, or even worse, you can end up in a dangerous situation.
So, how do you tow a car in the right manner? Are any special training or tools required? No need to stress because we have got you covered. This guide is ideal if you’re looking for a foolproof method to tow a car, tips, and instructions.
Without further ado, let’s get going.
Is It Even Legal to Tow a Car Yourself?
Before you consider hooking your car to another, there are some rules you should be aware of. Check the local laws to get an idea about what kind of equipment you can use while towing.
Moreover, you must check whether it’s allowed to keep the headlights on while towing or not. Also, check the minimum speed while towing.
Things to Consider Before You Tow
When it comes to towing a car with another car, there’s more to it than just pulling it along. You need to consider a few pointers before you start towing.
Vehicle Size and Weight
The towing car should be larger than the vehicle that is being towed. If you’re towing a car that is bulkier than the vehicle smaller in size and weight, then it won’t work.
Towing Capacity
Every car has a limited capacity. Before you tow a car with a truck, check out the manual to see how much weight it can safely pull. Exceeding the capacity is only going to get you in more trouble, like engine/brake failure or a damaged vehicle.
Working Lights and Brakes
Before you tow a car with another car, make sure the lights are in the working condition of the vehicle you’re using for towing. If not, you need to find another car for towing or a light kit to drive safely.
Towing A Car With Another Car—The Hassle-Free Methods!
Let’s look at three safe and commonly used ways to tow a car:
1. How to Tow a Car With a Dolly
A tow dolly is a two-wheel car that lifts the front tyres of the car off the ground. This method is especially useful if you’re towing a front-wheel drive vehicle.
Why It Works:
- Cheaper than a full trailer
- Easier to store and manoeuvre
- No need to disconnect the driveshaft on front-wheel drive cars
What to Look Out For?
- Not an ideal method to tow all-wheel or rear-wheel drive
- You must strap the car down securely
Steps:
- Keep the dolly behind the towing vehicle for safe pulling.
- Push or drive the towed car onto the dolly until the front wheels are on.
- Use strong straps to secure the tyres to the dolly.
- Attach the dolly’s safety chains to the frame of the car.
- Double-check lights and tyre straps before you tow.
Once you get the hang of it, towing a car with another car using a dolly is a smart and reliable method.
2. How to Tow a Car With a Tow Bar
A tow bar is made of metal material that joins the front of the towed car to the back of the towing vehicle, allowing the towed car to roll on all four wheels.
This is also known as “flat towing” or “dinghy towing.”
Why It’s An Easy Solution?
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Good for short to medium distances
- Great for manual transmission cars
What to Watch Out For?
- Not all vehicles can be flat-towed
- It may cause extra wear on tyres and drivetrain
- Requires a base plate installed on the towed car
Steps:
- Install the base plate.
- Balance both vehicles and attach the tow bar securely.
- Cross the safety cables under the tow bar to form a cradle.
- Attach any necessary lighting systems to the towed car.
- Do a slow test drive to make sure the connection is stable.
How to tow a car with a tow bar? Well, you now know the basics. However, if you’re not confident about towing your car by yourself, then look for a vehicle towing service for safe towing. A professional will help break down the complex method, offering you a pretty smooth ride.
3. How to Tow a Car With a Trailer?
If you want the most secure method, a flatbed trailer is an ideal choice. The entire car is lifted off the ground and strapped down on a platform.
The Benefits:
- Ideal for long-distance towing
- Safe for any type of car, including automatics and AWD
- No tyre wear or tear issue
Downsides:
- Requires a heavy-duty towing vehicle
- It can be expensive to rent or buy
- Not easy to manoeuvre in compact spaces
Steps:
- Attach the trailer and connect all lights and brakes.
- Lower the ramps and slowly load the vehicle onto the trailer.
- Use high-quality straps to secure each wheel.
- Hook up the trailer’s safety chains and check the electrical connections.
- Keep the speed slow to avoid sharp turns.
Learning how to tow a car with a trailer might take a bit more effort, but it’s worth it if you want maximum safety and control.
Towing With a Rope or Chain?
You’ve probably seen people do this before—two cars connected with a chain or thick rope slowly crawling down the street.
Can it work?
Technically, yes. But should you do it?
This method offers very little control. The towed car has no braking power of its own, and a sudden stop can cause a collision or snap the rope. Also, it’s illegal in many places.
Towing a Car With Another Car: A Quick Comparison
| Method | Cost | Skill Level | Ideal For |
| Tow Dolly | Low | Beginner | Front-wheel drive cars |
| Tow Bar | Medium | Moderate | Manual transmission cars |
| Trailer | High | Intermediate | All types of vehicles |
| Rope/Chain | Minimal | Risky | Emergency use only |
Must-Know Safety Tips
No matter which method you choose, always follow these golden rules:
- Don’t exceed the speed limit of 55 mph while towing
- Take turns slowly and hit the brakes when needed.
- Use hazard lights if driving below normal speed
- Keep an eye on mirrors to avoid any collision on the road.
- Stop after the first few miles to recheck straps and connections.
These simple steps go a long way in keeping you, your car, and everyone else on the road safe.
Wrapping Up
Towing a car with another car isn’t a household chore you do every day. You need to be mindful of all the dos and don’ts before you start towing.
Whether you choose a dolly, a tow bar, or a full trailer, the most important thing is to do it safely, legally, and with the right tools. Now that you’ve got a handle on how to tow a car with another car, you’re headed in the right direction.
Next time your car breaks down, you definitely know what to do instead of seeking help elsewhere. Knowing how to tow a car can save you a lot of money and time.
