How To Tow A Front-Wheel Drive Car

Yoshi Saito • December 27, 2024

How to Tow a Front-Wheel Drive Car: A Complete Guide


Towing a front-wheel drive (FWD) car may seem straightforward, but there are crucial steps to ensure the safety of both the vehicle and the person towing it. Whether you've broken down on the side of the road, need to transport your car to another location, or assist a friend, understanding the correct methods to tow a front-wheel drive car can prevent costly damages. This guide, written by Central Oregon Towing Co., will walk you through the safest practices and best approaches for towing a FWD vehicle.


Why Front-Wheel Drive Cars Require Special Attention


Front-wheel drive vehicles make up approximately 65% of passenger cars in North America as of 2023, making them the predominant drivetrain configuration on our roads. This statistic highlights the relevance of understanding FWD towing, as it's likely to affect the majority of drivers at some point. Since FWD cars dominate the market, most drivers are likely to encounter a situation requiring FWD towing, whether during a breakdown, accident, or when assisting others. Recognizing the proper towing techniques can help avoid transmission damage and costly repairs, making it a valuable skill for any driver. These vehicles are distinct from rear-wheel or all-wheel drive cars in that the engine and transmission power the front wheels exclusively. This setup is efficient for traction and fuel economy but creates challenges during towing. When towed incorrectly, a FWD car's transmission, axles, and drivetrain components can suffer significant damage. Studies by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that improper towing of FWD vehicles accounts for roughly 22% of transmission-related warranty claims. This underscores the financial impact of mishandling FWD towing, reinforcing the need to follow proper procedures. To avoid such issues, it's essential to lift the front wheels off the ground.


Methods for Towing a Front-Wheel Drive Car


1. Flatbed Towing (The Safest Option)


The safest and most recommended method for towing a front-wheel drive car is by using a flatbed tow truck. Industry data indicates that flatbed towing reduces the risk of vehicle damage by 94% compared to other methods. This significant reduction emphasizes the reliability of flatbed towing and the importance of opting for this method when possible. For example, a driver in Portland, Oregon, avoided $3,000 in potential transmission and axle damage by choosing flatbed towing after their FWD car broke down on the freeway. The flatbed ensured the front wheels were lifted, preventing drivetrain stress during transport. This real-world scenario illustrates how the added cost upfront can save drivers from major repair expenses. While flatbed services typically cost 30-40% more than traditional towing, insurance data shows they result in 87% fewer secondary damage claims. Although the cost may seem higher initially, the lower chance of damage makes it a financially sound choice in the long run. This method involves loading the entire car onto the bed of the truck, ensuring all wheels are off the ground.


Pros:

  • Zero risk of drivetrain damage
  • Safe for long distances
  • Protects tires and suspension


Cons:

  • Requires a flatbed tow truck, which may be more expensive
  • Not always readily available


2. Tow Dolly (A Practical Alternative)


According to automotive insurance statistics, tow dolly incidents account for approximately 15% of towing-related accidents. This percentage reveals that while dolly towing is generally safe, there is a small risk involved if not executed properly. Factors contributing to this risk include improper securing of the vehicle, exceeding the dolly's weight capacity, and inadequate training or experience. For instance, failure to tightly fasten the front wheels can lead to the car shifting, while overloading may strain the dolly and towing vehicle, increasing accident potential. Ensuring proper technique and adhering to equipment guidelines can help mitigate these risks. However, when properly secured, tow dollies maintain a 98% safety record for distances under 100 miles. This highlights the importance of proper setup and usage to ensure maximum safety. The average tow dolly can safely handle vehicles weighing up to 3,500 pounds, covering about 80% of consumer FWD vehicles. This statistic reassures readers that a tow dolly is a viable option for the majority of cars on the road. However, larger FWD vehicles, such as SUVs or minivans, may approach or exceed the 3,500-pound limit, requiring flatbed towing or specialized equipment. Compact sedans and hatchbacks typically fall well below this threshold, making them ideal candidates for dolly towing. This method lifts the front wheels off the ground while the rear wheels remain in contact with the road.


Steps to Use a Tow Dolly:

  1. Align the tow dolly with the towing vehicle
  2. Drive or push the FWD car's front wheels onto the dolly
  3. Secure the wheels with straps and safety chains
  4. Ensure the rear wheels can rotate freely


Pros:

  • Affordable and accessible
  • Easy to set up
  • Minimizes transmission wear


Cons:

  • Rear wheels remain exposed to road debris
  • Not ideal for long distances
  • Can lead to uneven tire wear


3. Two-Wheel Towing (Using Tow Bars)


Tow bars attach to the front of the vehicle, keeping all four wheels on the road. However, for front-wheel drive cars, this method requires disconnecting the driveshaft or removing the front axles to prevent transmission damage.


Pros:

  • Cost-effective for short distances
  • Simple to attach


Cons:

  • Complex preparation (disconnecting axles or driveshaft)
  • Higher risk of transmission damage if improperly set up


Precautions Before Towing


A comprehensive study of towing incidents found that 73% of towing-related accidents were attributed to improper securing techniques. This statistic stresses the critical importance of securing the vehicle correctly, as most accidents are avoidable with proper attention. A common securing mistake involves failing to properly tighten the wheel straps, which can loosen during transit, allowing the vehicle to shift. To avoid this, double-check the tension of all straps after driving a short distance and periodically throughout the trip. Additionally, ensuring the use of quality, non-worn straps can prevent slippage, further reducing the risk of accidents. Regular equipment inspection reduces the risk of towing incidents by 82%, according to the Towing and Recovery Association of America. This highlights how preventative measures like inspections can significantly enhance safety. Here are essential precautions to take regardless of your chosen method:


  1. Check the Owner's Manual: Always consult the vehicle's manual for specific towing instructions. Some manufacturers provide detailed guidelines on the best towing practices for their models.
  2. Inspect Towing Equipment: Before towing, inspect the tow dolly, flatbed, or tow bar for signs of wear, cracks, or malfunctions. Using faulty equipment can lead to accidents or further vehicle damage.
  3. Secure the Car Properly: Ensure that the vehicle is tightly strapped to the tow dolly or flatbed. Loose connections can lead to the car shifting during transport, increasing the risk of damage.
  4. Engage Parking Brake (If Applicable): When using a flatbed, engage the parking brake after loading the car to prevent movement during transit.


Towing Tips for a Smooth Experience


Research shows that maintaining speeds below 55 mph while towing reduces sway incidents by 65%. This demonstrates how a simple adjustment like controlling speed can drastically improve safety. Here are essential tips for a safe towing experience:


  • Drive Slowly and Steadily: Sudden braking or acceleration can cause the towed car to sway. Maintain a moderate speed, especially when towing with a dolly or bar.
  • Use Safety Lights and Signals: Attach safety lights to the rear of the towed vehicle to ensure other drivers can see it clearly, particularly at night.
  • Monitor Tire Pressure: Proper tire inflation alone prevents 28% of towing-related tire failures. This statistic shows how basic maintenance can play a crucial role in avoiding mishaps. Regularly check tire pressure on both the towing vehicle and the car being towed.
  • Plan Your Route: Data from commercial towing companies indicates that pre-planned routes with minimal obstacles reduce transit time by an average of 24% and decrease the risk of incidents by 35%. This illustrates the benefits of route planning in minimizing risks and ensuring timely transport.


When to Call a Professional Towing Service


Professional towing services report 92% fewer vehicle damage incidents compared to DIY towing attempts. This statistic underlines the expertise and reliability that professionals bring to the table, encouraging readers to consider professional help when in doubt. The average response time for professional towing services in urban areas is 27 minutes, while rural areas average 45 minutes. Certified towing operators undergo an average of 160 hours of training and must maintain updated certifications every two years.


Call Central Oregon Towing Co. for any questions or help!

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Towing Companies Bend Oregon

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Towing Companies in Bend Oregon: A Comprehensive Guide When you're stranded on the side of the road in Central Oregon, knowing which towing company to call can make all the difference. Whether you're dealing with a flat tire, an empty gas tank, or a more serious mechanical issue, having a reliable towing service on speed dial is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, written by Central Oregon Towing Co. , we'll break down seven of the most dependable towing services in the area, categorized by their key features and services. 24/7 Emergency Towing Services When disaster strikes, you need help fast – regardless of the time. These companies offer round-the-clock assistance to get you back on the road. Abbas Towing Abbas Towing stands out as a versatile and modern towing service. Available 24/7, they're not just your average tow truck company. As an AAA preferred provider , they offer a wide range of services including: - Lockouts - Tire changes - Fuel delivery - Medium/light-duty towing What sets Abbas apart is their unique offerings. They're the only company in the Pacific Northwest with a specialty motorcycle transport unit, making them the go-to choice for bikers in trouble. Additionally, they've embraced the future of automobiles by offering mobile electric vehicle charging – a lifesaver for EV owners caught short on battery life. TRAC Towing TRAC Towing prides itself on its extensive coverage and comprehensive services. With a 24-hour dispatch available, they're ready to help at any time. Their services include: - Towing - Recovery - Winch-outs - Jumpstarts - Lock-outs - Fuel delivery With locations in both Bend and Redmond, TRAC Towing covers all of Oregon, making them a reliable choice whether you're close to home or exploring the far reaches of the state. Specialized Services: Long Distance Towing, Heavy Equipment Transport, and More Sometimes, you need more than just a standard tow. These companies offer specialized services for unique situations. Cascade Heavy Rescue When the going gets tough, Cascade Heavy Rescue gets going. With 20 years of experience in 24/7 emergency service, they specialize in: - Off-road recovery - Remote location recovery - Snowcat and snowmobile recovery If you find yourself stuck in a precarious position off the beaten path, Cascade Heavy Rescue has the expertise to get you out safely. Bar Towing Inc. Bar Towing Inc. caters to a wide range of towing needs, but they truly shine when it comes to specialized transport. They offer: - Expertise in custom hotrod market towing - Pneumatic systems for damage-free transport - RV towing up to 18,000 lbs Their use of pneumatic systems ensures that even the most valuable vehicles are transported without a scratch, making them a top choice for classic car owners and RV enthusiasts alike. Local and Long-Standing Towing Companies in Bend: There's something to be said for experience and local knowledge. These companies have stood the test of time in Central Oregon. Consolidated Towing Founded in 1988, Consolidated Towing has grown from humble beginnings to become a major player in the local towing industry. Starting with just 2.5 trucks, they now boast over 35 pieces of equipment. Their longevity in the business speaks to their reliability and quality of service. All Seasons Towing As a locally owned and operated business, All Seasons Towing understands the unique challenges of Central Oregon's roads and weather. They offer 24/7 roadside assistance and are known for their fast response times and excellent customer service. When you call All Seasons, you're not just getting a tow truck – you're getting a neighbor who knows the area inside and out. A New Tow Company in Bend Oregon Even in an established industry, there's always room for fresh faces bringing new energy and ideas. Central Oregon Towing and Recovery Though relatively new compared to some others on this list, Central Oregon Towing and Recovery has quickly made a name for itself since its establishment around 2007. They've earned praise for their prompt service, often arriving earlier than estimated. They're also capable of handling large vehicles like travel trailers, filling an important niche in the market. Central Oregon Towing Co.'s Conclusion Whether you need specialized off-road recovery, motorcycle transport, or simply a reliable 24/7 service, Central Oregon has a towing company to meet your needs. From long-standing local businesses to newcomers making a splash, the region is well-served by a diverse range of towing services. Central Oregon Towing Co. seeks to serve towing customers like you by connecting you with these top towing companies in Bend Oregon. We save you the hassle of sifting through the numerous companies so you can instantly connect with a vetted provider so you can get back on the road feeling safe and confident again! Call now to get connected with a tow company in Bend Oregon!
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By Yoshi Saito • January 19, 2025
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