When your car breaks down, gets stuck, or just won’t start, you need help fast. But many drivers worry: can towing damage your car? It’s a common concern, and it makes sense. Your vehicle is important, and you want it handled with care. At Chavez Towing, we know how stressful this situation can be, so we want to make the towing process easy to understand and help you avoid any problems.
Below, we’ll break down the types of towing damage, how it happens, how to prevent it, and how to choose the right towing company in Carrollton, Texas.
Does Towing Cause Damage to Your Vehicle?
Towing itself is safe when the right steps are followed. The problem often comes from improper towing, bad towing techniques, or careless work. When done wrong, it can lead to issues like:
- Transmission damage
- Brake damage
- Body damage
- Engine damage
- Stress on the suspension
- Tire or bumper scraping
This happens when the tow truck driver doesn’t use the right towing methods, uses the wrong towing equipment, or hooks up the car in a way that puts unnecessary stress on it.
The good news? You can avoid most problems when you choose an experienced towing company that knows how to tow a car the right way.
Common Types of Towing Damage and Why They Happen
These are the most common types of towing damage drivers experience:
1. Transmission Damage
This is one of the biggest concerns.
If a car with an automatic transmission is pulled with its drive wheels on the ground, damage can occur. The transmission needs proper lubrication, and when the vehicle is being towed, the fluid may not circulate.
This kind of damage usually comes from:
- Leaving the wrong wheels down
- Not placing the car in neutral
- Poor towing techniques
2. Brake and Axle Damage
When the two wheels of a car are lifted and the others are pulled along during dolly towing, the brakes and axles can take on more stress than they should.
3. Body Damage
This includes bumper scratches, dents, broken lights, or bent metal.
It can happen if:
- The straps are too tight
- The car is pulled at the wrong angle
- The tow truck is weighted unevenly
These issues are common when the wrong towing equipment is used or when someone tries to tow your car in a hurry.
4. Mechanical Damage
This includes engine issues, steering problems, and suspension stress.
It often happens when:
- The wrong hook points are used
- A tow truck damaged the undercarriage
- The driver ignores the type of car or the type of transmission your car has
Flatbed Towing: The Safest and Most Popular Towing Method
A flatbed truck can safely transport your car without lifting any of the wheels. When your car is being towed on a flatbed, it sits completely off the ground. This lowers the risk of damaging your car and is ideal for:
- AWD and 4WD vehicles
- Low-clearance cars
- Cars with transmission issues
- Luxury cars
- Small vehicles that need secure towing
Flatbeds are designed so that vehicles can be towed without needing a full-sized tow or without pulling the wheels off the road.
Most drivers prefer this method because the car remains stable throughout the towing process.
How Improper Towing Techniques Cause Damage
Many problems come from improper towing techniques, such as:
- Using the wrong hook points
- Not securing the car well
- Not checking that the tow truck is weighted correctly
- Pulling a vehicle too fast
- Forgetting to raise the right wheels
This is why it’s essential to call a professional towing company that uses proper towing techniques and employs skilled workers who know how to handle your car safely.
What Happens If Your Car Is Damaged During Towing?
If your car is damaged or you notice damage when towing, don’t panic. You should:
- Take pictures of the damage.
- Note the time and location.
- Call the towing company and explain what happened.
- Report the issue if needed.
- Speak with a car accident lawyer if the extent of the damage is serious.
A reputable towing company will take responsibility for the damage they caused.
How to Prevent Damage When Getting Your Car Towed
You can prevent damage if you take a few simple steps:
1. Ask for the Right Towing Method
Some cars need flatbed towing. Others may work with a tow dolly.
Always tell the company:
- Your car type
- Your transmission
- Any engine issues
- If the car is stuck or won’t move
This helps the driver choose the safest method.
2. Make Sure the Car Is in Neutral
A must-do step for any car that needs to be pulled. This reduces strain on the transmission.
3. Choose an Experienced Towing Company
This is the biggest factor in preventing damage.
A skilled team knows how to tow a vehicle without mistakes.
4. Remove Loose Items
This includes items inside the car that may shift or slide.
5. Tell the Driver if the Car Has Special Features
Such as:
- Air suspension
- Low clearance
- Special wheels
- Modified bumpers
All these things can help the driver make better choices.
FAQs
1. What types of towing damage include bumper and exterior problems?
These usually come from the wrong straps, wrong angles, or rough loading.
They are avoidable with proper work.
2. Can towing cause engine problems?
Yes, if the wrong wheels are left down or if the car is pulled in a way that strains the drivetrain.
3. What happens if your car is damaged during towing?
Take photos, call the towing company, and document everything.
A good company will fix the issue.
4. Can towing your car too much cause long-term problems?
Frequent towing can wear out tires, suspension, and certain parts, but most cars withstand towing well when it’s done right.
5. Is flatbed towing always better?
It’s the safest option for most cars, especially modern vehicles and cars with transmission concerns.
6. Do all tow companies follow the same towing techniques?
No. This is why choosing a reliable and skilled company matters.
7. Can small vehicles be towed without a full-sized truck?
Yes. Many small vehicles can be towed without needing a full-sized tow truck, depending on the setup.
Summary
So, can towing damage your car? Yes, it can but only if it’s done the wrong way. Most damage to your car happens from improper towing, bad equipment, or inexperience. When you choose trained professionals, your car withstands being towed and stays safe every step of the way.
At Chavez Towing, we use the proper methods, modern trucks, and careful loading to protect your vehicle.
If your car needs to be towed, don’t risk extra damage. Call the trusted team at Chavez Towing for safe, reliable towing services in Carrollton, Texas, and nearby areas.
We offer Car Towing, Truck Towing, Box Truck Towing, RV Towing, Light and Heavy Truck Towing, Tractor Towing, Motorcycle Transport, Flatbed Tow Truck Services, Long-Distance Towing, Car Lockout, Emergency Jump Start, Tire Change, and more.
Save our number: (214) 731-7327. Book your tow today and let trained experts handle your vehicle with care.
Also Read:
Are Towing Companies Liable for Damage? (Essential Facts Every Driver Should Know)
Looking for the Best 24/7 Car Towing Service Texas? Here’s What to Know