Experiencing a vehicle breakdown can be stressful, but knowing how to prepare your car for a wheel lift tow can make the process smoother and safer. Wheel lift towing is a popular method for transporting vehicles because it lifts only the drive wheels off the ground, reducing the risk of damage compared to older methods. Whether your car has front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive, following these tips can ensure a safe and damage-free tow. Today, we at Non Stop Towing would like to offer a few tips to prep your vehicle for a wheel lift towing service.
Understand Your Vehicle’s Drive Type
Before a tow, it’s important to know whether your vehicle is front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive. Wheel lift towing works by lifting the drive wheels off the ground. For example, front-wheel drive cars are lifted by the front wheels, while rear-wheel drive cars are lifted by the rear. Attempting to tow an all-wheel drive vehicle improperly can cause severe damage to the transmission. When you call a towing company, provide your vehicle’s drive type so the driver can prepare the correct towing setup.
Secure Loose Items Inside & Outside Your Vehicle
Before your car is lifted, remove or secure any loose items inside the vehicle. Objects in the cabin, trunk, or cargo areas can shift during towing, potentially causing damage or distracting the driver. Additionally, check the exterior for attachments like bike racks, spoilers, or antennae that might get in the way during towing. Securing or removing these items helps prevent accidental damage and ensures a smoother towing process.
Put Your Vehicle in Neutral
For a wheel lift tow, the drive wheels must be free to spin. Make sure your car is in neutral (for manual or automatic transmissions) and the parking brake is disengaged. This step is crucial for preventing strain on your transmission or drivetrain. If you’re unsure how to properly set your vehicle for towing, ask the tow truck driver for guidance, they have experience handling all types of vehicles safely.
Fold Mirrors & Lock Doors
Folding in side mirrors helps prevent accidental damage while your car is lifted and transported. Additionally, lock the doors but leave the windows rolled up. This prevents theft, keeps your car secure, and ensures that nothing falls out during the tow. If your car has electronic locks or alarm systems, inform the towing company so they can handle the vehicle correctly.
Communicate with Your Towing Company
Finally, clear communication with your towing provider is essential. Let them know about any special considerations, such as aftermarket modifications, low ground clearance, or mechanical issues. Experienced wheel lift towing companies, like Non Stop Towing, will adjust their equipment and techniques to suit your vehicle, ensuring a safe and efficient tow.
Towing & Roadside Assistance Services in Aliante, Centennial, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Enterprise, Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Lone Mountain Village, North LV, Peccole Ranch, Paradise, Silverado Ranch, Spring Valley, Summerlin, Sunrise Manor, Tuscany Village, Whitney, Winchester & Las Vegas Nevada
By following these five tips, you can help ensure your vehicle is safely transported without damage. Understanding your car, securing loose items, and working closely with a professional towing company can turn an unexpected breakdown into a stress-free experience. Call Non Stop Towing when you need a tow in the Las Vegas, NV Valley.
