Towing a lowered car demands expertise and the right equipment to prevent damage. I’ll guide you through the proper method. Many lowered vehicles are damaged by well-meaning but inexperienced tow operators. Preparation and a reliable towing service are key to preserving your car’s appearance.

Navigating the Difficulties of Towing a Lowered Vehicle:

If you’ve ever spotted a lowered car gliding down the road, you know they command attention. But what about when that sleek ride requires a tow?

With over a decade in the towing service industry, I can attest firsthand that towing a lowered vehicle presents distinct challenges.

Potential Risks and Key Considerations:

In car towing, ground clearance is paramount. This is particularly critical for lowered vehicles.

The limited space between the undercarriage and the road surface increases the risk of damage during towing. Even minor bumps or uneven surfaces can cause the vehicle to bottom out, potentially harming bumpers, side skirts, or the exhaust system.

Possible Vehicle Damage:

Towing lowered cars often results in damage like scraped bumpers, cracked side skirts, and bent suspension. Lowered suspension systems are vulnerable due to their altered height and firmer springs. Use proper equipment and extreme caution to prevent costly repairs.

Preparing Your Lowered Vehicle for Towing:

So, you find yourself needing to tow a lowered car. What’s next? With years of experience coordinating tows for modified vehicles, I can emphasize that preparation is absolutely crucial.

Selecting the Ideal Towing Service:

Choosing a towing company experienced in handling lowered cars is crucial. Not all services can manage vehicles with low ground clearance. Geyers Towing specializes in towing custom vehicles, including those with low-clearance. Selecting a company familiar with these requirements ensures safe loading and transportation with suitable equipment.

Clearly Communicate Your Vehicle’s Requirements:

After choosing the right towing provider, it’s essential to have a detailed discussion. Clearly communicate your car’s lowered suspension, custom body kit, and modifications to the tow truck operator. Providing photos of your vehicle helps them understand its unique features, ensuring they handle it with precision and care to avoid any potential damage.

Guide on Towing a Lowered Car: Step-by-Step

Now that you’ve selected the ideal towing company and communicated your vehicle’s requirements, it’s time to focus on the specifics of towing your lowered car.

Positioning the Tow Truck and Loading Ramp:

Positioning the flatbed tow truck and ramp correctly is crucial in towing operations. Park the truck on a flat, level surface with enough space to extend the ramp smoothly. A shallow ramp angle is essential to safely load lowered vehicles, reducing the risk of undercarriage scraping. Some trucks offer adjustable or specialized ramps for low-clearance vehicles, which enhance the loading process’s safety and efficiency.

Loading the Lowered Vehicle onto the Flatbed:

Once the ramp is set, loading the vehicle demands careful attention. Proceed slowly and cautiously, with a spotter guiding the driver to avoid the car bottoming out on the ramp. Precision is crucial over force during this delicate process. To prevent scraping the front bumper, consider using wooden blocks or shorter ramps for additional clearance. Creative solutions like using a 2×8 board as a ramp extension can also effectively mitigate risks during loading.

Securing the Vehicle on the Flatbed:

After safely loading your vehicle onto the flatbed, ensure it’s securely fastened with proper towing straps or chains at designated points. Use tire stops to prevent wheel movement and maintain stability during transit, avoiding damage to suspension components.

Unloading the Lowered Car:

When unloading, the process mirrors the reverse of loading but is equally crucial. Position the ramp correctly with a shallow angle and employ a spotter to guide the driver, ensuring the car clears the ramp without scraping. If additional clearance is needed, use wooden blocks or shorter ramps again. Approach unloading slowly and steadily to ensure a smooth operation for your lowered vehicle.

Alternative Methods for Transporting Lowered Vehicles

While flatbed towing is frequently the preferred method for lowered cars, it’s not the sole option available. Depending on your vehicle’s requirements, there are several alternatives worth exploring.

Utilizing a Tow Dolly or Trailer:

For lowered vehicles with minimal ground clearance, using a tow trailer or dolly can lift the car’s rear wheels off the ground, avoiding undercarriage scraping. However, compatibility varies based on factors like drivetrain, weight distribution, and manufacturer recommendations. Consultation with a professional before using this method is crucial.

Flat Towing Using a Tow Bar:

Flat towing with a tow bar involves attaching it to the front of your lowered vehicle and towing it behind another vehicle, keeping all wheels on the ground. It’s suitable if your car has enough ground clearance but requires disengaging steering and brakes, and setting the transmission to neutral. Not all vehicles are suitable for this method, so professional advice is recommended beforehand.

Preventing Damage and Ensuring a Seamless Towing Experience

With your lowered car prepared for towing and the appropriate method chosen, the next priority is to ensure a damage-free and smooth towing experience.

Monitoring Ground Clearance During Loading and Unloading:

Monitoring clearance during loading and unloading of a lowered vehicle is essential. Assign a dedicated observer to watch for bumper, side skirt, and undercarriage clearance, alerting the driver to avoid damage.

Collaborating Closely with the Tow Truck Operator:

Towing a lowered car relies on teamwork with the tow truck driver as your key ally. Maintain clear communication and collaborate closely throughout. Share your insights, ask questions, and guide as needed. An experienced driver values your input for safe towing. Both of you aim to transport your car safely, so effective teamwork is crucial for success.

Inspecting for Damage Post-Towing:

After towing your lowered car, conduct a thorough inspection of its bumpers, side skirts, undercarriage, and suspension components for any damage. Document any issues with clear photos and notify the towing service promptly to address them. Keeping records of your vehicle’s condition before and after towing can aid in insurance claims or disputes. Stay proactive to ensure your lowered car receives proper care throughout the towing process.

Closing Remarks:

To tow a lowered car safely, choose an experienced towing company familiar with handling low-clearance vehicles. Clear communication with the towing operator about your car’s specific needs is essential. Ensure they use appropriate towing equipment such as flatbed trucks or tow dollies to minimize potential damage. Document your car’s condition with photos before and after towing to monitor for any issues that may arise. Promptly address any concerns to preserve your car’s appearance and condition throughout the towing process. These steps will help ensure a smooth and stress-free towing experience for your lowered vehicle.

Most tow trucks you encounter are operated by private companies, while others are under the jurisdiction of government entities such as local or state authorities. These can include emergency responders like fire services, police departments, or agencies responsible for road maintenance. The U.S. military also utilizes its own specialized models.

One of the primary functions of tow trucks is aiding stranded motorists who have experienced accidents or breakdowns. By relocating the vehicle to a safe location, further damage is minimized, ensuring the safety of other drivers on the road. However, this is just one aspect of the diverse services provided by tow trucks.

Additionally, tow trucks are frequently employed to transport heavy-duty cargo, which can range from intact vehicles to machinery and equipment requiring secure and reliable transportation. It’s not uncommon to witness a tow truck hauling items like snowmobiles, showcasing the versatility of their capabilities.

There’s a towing scenario no driver wants to encounter: being towed away for an infraction. Whether it’s a parking violation, obstructing traffic, or neglecting auto insurance payments, these offenses could result in your vehicle being towed to an impound yard.

It’s not a pleasant thought, is it? Instead, let’s delve into the different types of towing trucks and examine their advantages and disadvantages.

The Versatility and Safety of Flatbed Tow Trucks

Among the most prevalent towing methods, flatbed tow trucks—also known as “rollbacks” or “slides”—are highly versatile and maneuverable vehicles. They excel in handling short-distance hauls, accommodating both single and multiple vehicles ranging from lightweight to heavy-duty, and transporting them to destinations that larger trucks might struggle to access.

These trucks feature a long, flatbed onto which vehicles can either be driven or winched up if they are immobilized due to mechanical issues or accidents. Opting for a flatbed ensures a safer transport experience, particularly when transporting a single vehicle, as there’s no risk of contact with other vehicles that could potentially cause damage such as scraping, scratching, or leaking onto it.

Flatbed tow trucks also come in specialized designs that offer enhanced capabilities beyond the standard model. Step decks feature ramps for easier loading and unloading, and their lower height accommodates taller cargo. Removable goosenecks are ideal for transporting extra-long loads, with a detachable front that transforms into a ramp. Double drops combine the advantages of both designs, enabling the transportation of both long and tall items.

Now that you’re acquainted with the standout performer in towing, let’s introduce you to other types of tow trucks you’ll encounter on the road.

The Four Main Types of Towing:

1. Hook and Chain Tow Trucks: Traditional Towing Method:

These models represent the earliest forms of towing vehicles but have declined in popularity due to their rugged simplicity. They feature a large, heavy hook attached to a chain, which is fastened to the vehicle’s axle or bumper to pull it to its destination.

A boom is employed to lift either the front or rear wheels of the towed vehicle while the remaining wheels stay in contact with the ground. However, hook and chain tow trucks can potentially cause damage by impacting bumpers, axles, drivetrains, or leaving substantial scratches on the vehicle’s paintwork, as the chain must be wrapped around the car’s frame.

Today, their utility is limited, primarily seen in cases where the truck is used to haul other cargo or transport vehicles for scrapping purposes.

2. Wheel-Lift Tow Trucks: Modern Alternatives in Towing:

Wheel-lift tow trucks offer a safer alternative to hook and chain methods. These trucks secure the front or rear tires of the towed vehicle into a yoke attached beneath the drive wheels, partially lifting it off the road. This method significantly reduces stress on the vehicle during towing.

Compared to flatbeds, wheel-lift tow trucks are smaller and have a lower height profile. This makes them more maneuverable in tight spaces and areas with limited clearance, as the towed vehicle remains closer to the ground during transport.

3. Boom Tow Trucks: Utilizing Extended Reach:

Hydraulic Boom Tow Trucks: Versatility and Power in Towing Operations

The term “boom” refers to the hydraulic arm mounted on the chassis of these tow trucks. The boom operates alongside a winch and either a belt lift or sling mechanism to assist in retrieving vehicles from challenging situations. Some booms are equipped to swivel, enhancing the versatility of these trucks.

Those with swiveling capabilities are often referred to as “rotators,” which prove especially beneficial for handling tasks at difficult angles, adverse weather conditions, or when dealing with heavy loads.

The capacity to manage weight and the maneuverability of the boom can vary between different trucks. Leading towing companies typically maintain a fleet equipped with various boom configurations suited for different types of jobs. Alternatively, they may operate a heavy-duty rig capable of handling both large and small towing assignments effectively.

4. Integrated Tow Trucks: Advanced Towing Solutions:

Integrated tow trucks, also known as “self-loaders,” excel in efficiency as their drivers rarely need to exit the cab to secure vehicles. These trucks are renowned for their robust stability and capacity to handle substantial loads, achieved through a combination of multiple mechanisms and designs. Typically equipped with extra axles, integrated tow trucks integrate features of both wheel lifts and booms into a single vehicle.

Selecting the appropriate towing method can significantly simplify the process of relocating your vehicle to its destination. Conversely, choosing poorly can complicate matters, underscoring the importance of understanding the nuances of different towing methods.

Limitations of Different Towing Methods:

Take your time when selecting a towing vehicle—rushing into a decision can exacerbate your situation. Before the towing team arrives, ensure you provide detailed information over the phone. Consider the following issues:

Wheel-lifts and hook and chain methods keep one set of the towed vehicle’s wheels in contact with the road, potentially causing wear, especially if these wheels are locked. Flatbeds eliminate this issue by fully elevating the vehicle.

Four-wheel drive vehicles cannot be towed using hook and chain or boom tow trucks due to the risk of damaging the drivetrain.

Using an inappropriate boom truck for the job can lead to severe consequences, such as the tow truck tipping over or dropping the vehicle due to misjudged load capacities.

Opting for a boom truck with a larger capacity than necessary isn’t always beneficial; some vehicles require smaller rigs to minimize stress.

Flatbed transport requires meticulous securing to prevent vehicles from slipping off, as there are no containment walls. Success hinges on the expertise and responsibility of drivers.

Choosing the right auto transport company involves verifying their licensing, insurance coverage, and their reputation for responsive customer service. For reliable service, contact a trusted provider like Geyers, ensuring peace of mind and effective towing solutions.

When to Contact a Towing Service

If your vehicle breaks down, without the aid of a tow truck, you could find yourself stranded on the road until a family member, friend, or a compassionate stranger lends a hand. Yet, opting for a professional towing service offers a superior solution. They arrive equipped with tools to handle various car problems, potentially resolving issues on the spot and avoiding the necessity for a tow altogether.

A tow truck is equipped to assist with the following issues:

• Jump-starting vehicles
• Installing batteries
• Addressing engine breakdowns
• Changing flat tires
• Rescuing locked-out situations
• Performing flatbed towing

After your vehicle is secured onto a towing truck, it’s important to ensure the towing company handles your car carefully and provides transparent pricing to avoid any manipulation of costs.

Tips for Selecting the Appropriate Towing Service

Choosing a towing company proactively is advisable. Here’s what our team’s towing service offers, along with tips on selecting the right provider, ensuring you have a reliable contact when emergencies arise.

1. Reviewing Customer Feedback

Before selecting a towing company, it’s crucial to assess its reputation. Seek recommendations from trusted sources such as family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors regarding reliable towing services they’ve used.

Additionally, explore online reviews. Utilize platforms like Facebook for direct recommendations and check reviews on Google, Yelp, Yellowpages, or Angieslist for local services. Pay attention to companies with consistently high ratings averaging between 4 and 5 stars. Reading customer testimonials provides insights into others’ experiences with different towing services.

Engagement with reviews indicates a company’s commitment to customer care. While towing expertise is essential, positive customer feedback is a better indicator of service quality than technical proficiency alone.

2. Understand the Variety of Towing Services Available

Different towing companies vary in their offerings, from specialized services to comprehensive solutions. It’s wise to research beforehand to understand the scope of services provided by each local provider before encountering an emergency.

For instance, if your vehicle breaks down late at night, you’ll require a towing service that operates around the clock with roadside assistance. When transporting a vehicle across state lines, an interstate towing company is essential. Some towing companies integrate their services with auto body shops, while others focus solely on towing operations.

At Gross & Son, we provide 24/7 towing service alongside a certified auto body shop. Our offerings include collision repair, automotive detailing, tire alignment, glass and window repair, as well as wash and vacuum services.

3. Explore Pricing Options

When faced with the urgent need for a tow, it’s crucial to avoid any potential exploitation by ensuring you know the towing company’s pricing upfront.

Two essential costs to inquire about are:

1. Mileage rate – the charge per mile for transporting your vehicle to your desired destination.
2. Hook-up fee – the cost associated with attaching your vehicle to the tow truck.

Additionally, many towing services may apply extra charges for specific situations such as towing on holidays, off-road towing, interstate towing, and others. It’s important to compare pricing among local towing services before making your choice.

4. Dependability and Expertise

The most dependable towing services usually offer round-the-clock roadside assistance. Companies lacking this service may respond at their discretion, potentially leading to unreliable service quality, regardless of your situation.

Additionally, a significant track record of towing experience must accompany that reliability. A new towing company may struggle to demonstrate their value and trustworthiness.

Does insurance cover the cost of towing?

Before hiring a towing service, it’s important to check if your insurance covers it. If a towing company doesn’t cooperate with major insurance providers, you’ll need to pay for the towing expense yourself. When researching local towing companies, make a note of which ones are affiliated with your insurance provider.

Ever found yourself stranded on the roadside, pondering if your dealership could rescue you with a tow? You’re not the only one. The query “Do dealerships provide towing?” often arises, particularly during unforeseen breakdowns that disrupt plans.

Let’s dive into the specifics and discuss the level of support you can expect from car dealerships concerning towing services. Familiarizing yourself with these provisions could prove invaluable, whether you’re driving away from the dealership or deep into your ownership journey.

Do Dealerships Provide Towing Services?

When purchasing a car from a dealership, it’s common to expect towing services to be included. But what does this encompass exactly? Let’s delve deeper into the roadside assistance programs typically provided by car dealerships.

What’s Included in a Dealership’s Roadside Assistance Program?

Dealerships frequently offer roadside assistance coverage as either a component of their warranty or as an independent feature. This commonly involves towing services within a specific radius, typically around 15 miles, or to the nearest qualified repair facility.

Other frequently covered services encompass:

• Winching in scenarios where your vehicle becomes stuck in mud, snow, water, or sand within 100 feet of the roadway.
• Jump-starts to revive dead batteries.
• Towing electric vehicles to the closest charging station.
• Locksmith assistance in cases of lost keys or locking them inside the vehicle.
• Tire changes for flat tires.
• Fuel delivery (fuel expenses are your responsibility).

Typical Concerns Handled by Roadside Assistance

What instances does your dealership’s roadside assistance extend support for? Here are some of the most prevalent issues addressed:

• Towing your vehicle to a designated repair shop within the defined radius.
• Assisting in winching your car out if it becomes stuck near a roadway.
• Jump-starting a dead battery.
• Towing an electric vehicle to a nearby charging facility.
• Offering locksmith services for lockouts or lost keys.
• Performing tire changes for flat tires.
• Providing fuel delivery (costs covered by you).

Constraints of Roadside Assistance

Although dealerships provide towing and various useful services, it’s essential to be aware of certain restrictions:

• Towing is typically confined to a 15-mile radius or the nearest accredited repair facility.
• Winching assistance is applicable only within 100 feet of a road or highway.
• While fuel delivery is offered, you are responsible for the fuel expenses.
• Coverage might be subject to a specific duration, such as the warranty period.

While dealership roadside assistance can prove invaluable in numerous situations, comprehending the extent and limitations of your particular coverage is crucial.

Actions to Follow When Your Vehicle Breaks Down

Imagine this scenario: You’re cruising down the highway when your car suddenly emits a worrying noise and loses power. Uh-oh, it seems you’re facing a breakdown. What’s the next step? Here’s your guide on how to handle the situation.

How to Reach Out to Your Dealership for Towing Services

In the event of a vehicle breakdown requiring a tow, adhere to these steps to utilize your dealership’s roadside assistance:

1. Locate the roadside assistance contact details provided by your dealership (refer to your warranty/owner’s manual or search for a decal in the car).
2. Place a call to the provided number and furnish your location, vehicle make/model, and a brief description of the issue.
3. The dealership will dispatch a tow service to either a repair shop or the dealership, depending on your coverage.
4. Towing will be arranged in accordance with your roadside assistance terms, typically within a 15-mile radius or to the nearest qualifying shop.

Options if Your Dealership Doesn’t Offer Towing Services

If your dealership doesn’t provide towing services, don’t worry, you still have alternatives:

1. Check if your car insurance policy includes roadside assistance coverage.
2. Consider purchasing a separate roadside assistance plan from a reputable provider.
3. If you have a non-operational car intended for sale or trade-in, arrange for its towing to the dealership at your own expense and negotiate the towing fee into the transaction.
4. Contact a reliable, local towing company directly to tow the vehicle to your residence or a repair shop, bearing the cost yourself.

While dealership towing may be convenient, there are other options available if your dealer doesn’t offer this service or if your car breaks down beyond their service area.

Selecting a Dependable Roadside Assistance Provider

If your dealership doesn’t provide roadside assistance or if you seek supplementary coverage, it’s crucial to identify a trustworthy roadside assistance provider. However, with numerous options available, how do you make the right choice? Here are some essential factors to contemplate.

Factors to Evaluate When Choosing a Service Provider

When seeking a roadside assistance provider, consider the following aspects:

1. Coverage Area: Ensure they offer services in the areas where you frequently travel.
2. Services Provided: Opt for a program that includes assistance for common situations like towing, jump-starts, lockouts, and flat tires.
3. Cost: Compare pricing, including annual membership fees and charges per incident.
4. Reputation: Read reviews and seek recommendations to identify a provider known for delivering prompt and reliable service.
5. Integration with Dealership: Check if the dealership has a preferred provider that seamlessly integrates with their service department, enhancing your overall experience.

Understanding Towing Coverage in Car Insurance

Car insurance can sometimes cover towing after an accident, depending on your policy:

• Collision coverage typically pays for towing if your car is damaged in an accident.
• Comprehensive coverage often includes towing for non-collision damage like vandalism or natural disasters.
• Some policies have separate roadside assistance coverage, offering towing for breakdowns not caused by a covered loss.
• Verify your coverage by checking your policy or contacting your insurance company.

Maximizing Your Dealership’s Roadside Assistance Program

If your dealership provides a roadside assistance program, it’s essential to ensure you’re optimizing its benefits. Let’s explore how you can leverage your coverage to its fullest extent and thoroughly understand all the details in the fine print.

Tips for Maximizing Your Coverage

To make the most of your dealership’s roadside assistance coverage, consider the following:

1. Familiarize yourself with the services covered and the corresponding conditions by thoroughly reviewing your agreement.
2. Keep the contact information for roadside assistance easily accessible in your vehicle, phone, or wallet.
3. Store the assistance number in your phone for quick access during emergencies.
4. If you have a preferred repair shop, inquire whether roadside assistance can tow your vehicle there or if it’s limited to the dealership.
5. Adhere to the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations to minimize the risk of preventable breakdowns.
6. When selling your car, ensure the roadside coverage transfers to the new owner and provide them with the necessary details.

Closing Remarks

In our exploration of whether dealerships offer towing, we’ve not only found answers but also gained valuable insights into the intricate workings of integrated service networks, aimed at alleviating the challenges encountered on life’s journeys. So, the next time your vehicle decides to take an unexpected roadside break, remember – reaching out to your dealer could offer the swift solution you need.

• The towing capacity of trucks can fluctuate significantly, both within a class and even among different configurations of the same model, which may offer various engine and transmission options.

• Published towing specifications typically assume that the vehicle is only carrying the driver and not any additional passengers, such as family or friends, along with their associated gear for the journey.

• For optimal safety, it’s advisable to remain below 10% of the maximum towing capacity. This allowance accommodates potential miscalculations and variations in load distribution during the journey.

• Selecting the appropriate trailer hitch is essential for ensuring safe towing.

Few subjects confound car shoppers as much as towing. Automakers vie to boast the highest towing capacities, yet the truth is far from a simple number search.

Towing capacity involves intricate calculations and substantial safety margins, not merely a singular poundage figure. Whether you seek a full-size truck for hauling your boat or horse trailer, or one of the premier towing SUVs to transport your family on holiday while pulling a camper for accommodations, grasping a series of terms and concepts is essential to making an informed choice. We’ll dissect them for you.

• Understanding Towing Capacity
• Determining Towing Capacity: A Comprehensive Guide
• Essential Towing Capacity Terminology
• Trailer Hitch Categories
• How Can I Determine What I’m Able to Tow?
• Vehicle Classification and Towing Capacity
• Determining Your Required Towing Capacity
• Optimizing Towing Capacity
• Factors Affecting Towing Capacity
• Trucks Offering Superior Towing Abilities

Understanding Towing Capacity

Your vehicle’s towing capacity represents the maximum weight it can safely haul, subject to variations based on configuration, existing weight load, and how the towing load is distributed and managed.

Although automakers typically provide a single number to estimate towing capacity, it’s not a universal rule applicable in every scenario. Accurate calculation necessitates understanding multiple factors concerning both your towing vehicle and the trailer you intend to tow.

Manufacturers provide published towing capacities for each vehicle they produce. However, these calculations assume that the towing vehicle carries only the driver. If you plan to tow a travel trailer while also accommodating your family and their associated gear for a weekend getaway, the manufacturer’s estimates may not accurately reflect your load requirements.

Determining Towing Capacity: A Comprehensive Guide

Calculating your vehicle’s towing capacity requires several key pieces of information. First, you’ll need to determine the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of both your towing vehicle and the trailer, accounting for all cargo, from passengers to fluids like wiper fluid.

Next, you’ll need to ascertain your tow vehicle’s curb weight, which is its weight when fully fueled and laden with all fluids necessary for operation.

By subtracting the curb weight from the GCWR, you arrive at the vehicle’s towing capacity. It’s imperative to heed manufacturers’ warnings against exceeding your car or truck’s towing capacity. Additionally, for safety considerations, it’s advisable to maintain a buffer of at least 10% below this total.

Loads can shift unexpectedly, people may misjudge, and cars can brake suddenly. Consequently, operating a vehicle at the absolute limits of its capability poses significant safety risks.

What Does GVWR Mean?

The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) represents the maximum allowable weight for a vehicle to operate safely, encompassing passengers, fuel, cargo, and the tongue weight of any towed items.

Exceeding your vehicle’s GVWR can lead to costly fines if pulled over by law enforcement. Moreover, an overloaded vehicle surpassing its GVWR could result in accidents, for which you might be held liable for any resulting fatalities. Therefore, refer to your owner’s manual or inspect the driver’s door side panel for your vehicle’s GVWR and additional towing-related information.

GVWR versus Towing Capacity: An Overview

The GVWR and towing capacity of your tow vehicle represent distinct figures. This is because the GVWR denotes the maximum weight the vehicle’s frame can endure pressing down on it, while the towing capacity refers to the total weight it can withstand pulling horizontally via the tow hitch.

Essential Towing Capacity Terminology

Understanding towing terminology may seem daunting initially, but it all boils down to straightforward measurements. There’s no need to memorize them all; you can always refer back to them here whenever necessary.

Towing Capacity: Braked vs. Unbraked

Certain trailers are outfitted with their own braking systems, electronically linked to the tow vehicle. When the vehicle’s brake pedal is pressed, both the vehicle’s and the trailer’s brakes engage simultaneously. This setup allows for greater control when towing heavier loads.

Consequently, the braked towing capacity, indicating the maximum weight the tow vehicle can haul when the trailer has its own brakes, exceeds the unbraked towing capacity, which pertains to the weight limit when the trailer lacks brakes.

Vehicle Curb Weight

Curb weight refers to the total weight of a vehicle along with all necessary fluids for operation, such as a full tank of gas, but excluding any passengers or cargo. This measurement contrasts with GVWR, which denotes the maximum weight capacity of a vehicle.

Locating Your Vehicle’s Weight

The curb weight of your vehicle is typically detailed in the owner’s manual and is often displayed on a sticker located in the driver’s door jamb.

Unladen Weight

Dry weight signifies the weight of a vehicle without any cargo and devoid of the necessary fluids for operation. In the context of your tow vehicle, its dry weight refers to its empty weight, excluding gasoline, oil, wiper fluid, or any other consumables. Typically, you don’t need to consider your vehicle’s dry weight in most towing calculations.

GAWR

GAWR, or gross axle weight rating, refers to the maximum weight that an individual axle can bear. Typically, this value varies between the front and rear axles, which may be composed of different materials or have varying diameters. Achieving a perfect 50-50 weight distribution between the two axles is uncommon in most vehicles.

GCWR

The gross combined weight rating, alternatively referred to as the gross combined vehicle weight rating, represents the maximum weight that your tow vehicle is certified to manage when fully laden with a trailer and all accompanying cargo.

GTW

The gross trailer weight refers to the combined weight of your trailer and its cargo. If you were to place the fully loaded trailer on a vehicle scale, the measurement obtained would represent the GTW. Exceeding your vehicle’s towing capacity with the GTW renders safe towing impossible. It’s imperative never to attempt towing a GTW higher than your vehicle’s towing capacity. Although it may seem technically feasible to transport the load, doing so is likely to result in damage to both the tow vehicle and the trailer, compromising control over the vehicle.

GVWR

As previously explained, the gross vehicle weight rating represents the maximum weight capacity of a vehicle, encompassing its own weight. This rating considers factors such as the strength of the frame, suspension, axles, and wheels. Both your tow vehicle and the trailer being towed will have their own GVWR. Each can be overloaded independently.

Cargo Capacity

Payload capacity denotes the maximum weight that a tow vehicle is certified to accommodate in its cabin and bed. It represents the weight limit for both the truck’s bed and cabin. Conversely, towing capacity signifies the weight limit for any trailer that the vehicle can pull.

Trailer Tongue Load

Occasionally denoted as TW, tongue weight represents the downward force exerted on the trailer hitch by the load being transported. This weight can fluctuate depending on how the load is distributed within the trailer.

Tow Rating

The towing capacity of a car, SUV, or truck denotes the maximum weight it can safely tow.

Trailer Hitch Categories

Once you’ve familiarized yourself with the different weights and capacities of your tow vehicle and trailer, your task isn’t complete. The next essential step is to comprehend the apparatus that links them together. Tow hitches have their own specific physical constraints.

Trailer hitches are categorized into five classes. Continue reading to explore further.

• Class I – hitches are typically utilized for small and midsize cars and crossovers. They have a towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds and can generally support a tongue weight of 200 pounds. A Class I hitch is suitable for tasks such as transporting a small cargo tray or towing a small tent camper or personal watercraft.

• Class II – hitches are commonly employed for large cars, crossovers, and minivans. They boast a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds and can endure a tongue weight of 350 pounds. A Class II hitch is suitable for tasks such as towing a small boat on a trailer.

• Class III – hitches are typically employed for full-size vans, trucks, and SUVs. They have a towing capacity of up to 8,000 pounds and can endure a tongue weight of 800 pounds. A Class III hitch is suitable for tasks such as towing a medium or midsize camper or boat.

• Class IV – hitches are typically installed on full-size vans, trucks, and SUVs. They boast a towing capacity of up to 10,000 pounds and can endure a tongue weight of 1,000 pounds. As the smallest class of hitch suitable for loads heavy enough to necessitate weight distribution, a Class IV hitch is ideal for tasks such as towing a large boat, a larger camper, or a utility trailer loaded with lawn equipment.

How Can I Determine What I’m Able to Tow?

Regrettably, determining the towing capacity of certain vehicles can be challenging. The ability of a vehicle to tow weight can be influenced by factors such as its engine, transmission, and suspension. Vehicles robust enough for towing heavy loads often come with a variety of options for each of these components. Additionally, truck manufacturers provide towing packages that may alter axle ratios, tire types, and include factory-installed hitches.

Fortunately, many truck and SUV manufacturers nowadays affix a sticker to the driver’s door jamb, which contains essential towing details like GVWR and GAWR.

Vehicle Classification and Towing Capacity

Subcompact SUV/Crossover

• 2024 Subaru Crosstrek: Towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds
• 2024 Jeep Compass: Towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds

Small SUV/Crossover

• 2024 Toyota RAV4: Towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds
• 2024 Ford Escape: Towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds

Midsize SUV/Crossover

• 2024 Kia Telluride: Towing capacity of up to 5,500 pounds
• 2024 Nissan Pathfinder: Towing capacity of up to 6,000 pounds

Large SUV/Crossover

• 2024 GMC Yukon: Towing capacity of up to 8,400 pounds
• 2024 Ford Expedition: Towing capacity of up to 9,300 pounds

Midsize Pickup Truck

• 2024 Nissan Frontier: Towing capacity of 6,640 pounds
• 2024 Chevy Colorado: Towing capacity of 7,700 pounds

Full-Size Pickup Truck

• 2024 Toyota Tundra: Towing capacity of 12,000 pounds
• 2024 Chevy Silverado: Towing capacity of 13,300 pounds

Heavy-Duty Pickup Truck

• 2024 Ford F-350 Super Duty: Towing capacity of 27,000 pounds (conventional), 32,900 pounds (gooseneck)
• 2024 Ram 3500 HD: Towing capacity of 37,090 pounds (gooseneck)

Full-Size Van

• 2024 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: Towing capacity of 7,500 pounds
• 2024 Ford Transit 350: Towing capacity of 6,900 pounds (cargo van)

Determining Your Required Towing Capacity

You require a towing capacity greater than the heaviest weight you intend to tow. Your tow vehicle must be able to manage its own weight, the weight of all occupants and cargo inside it, the weight of the trailer being towed, and the weight of all items loaded onto the trailer.

It must possess the capability to pull the combined weight of all these factors and be equipped with a hitch capable of the same. Moreover, it’s essential to ensure that the load is balanced, taking into account both the horizontal force necessary to move the load and the vertical weight exerted on the hitch and the assembly that secures it to the vehicle’s frame.

Is It Feasible to Tow a Small Travel Trailer Using My Car?

In all likelihood, yes, provided the weight of the trailer falls within your vehicle’s towing capacity. Refer to your owner’s manual or utilize your manufacturer’s online resources to ascertain your vehicle’s towing capacity.

While there isn’t a universal chart that specifies the weight of your particular load, we can offer a general reference to the empty and full weights of common trailer types.

Is it safe to surpass the GVWR?

Exceeding your vehicle’s GVWR is never safe. Even if you manage to get the vehicle moving with a heavier load than specified, you will struggle to control the vehicle safely or bring it to a halt within a safe distance. Additionally, with every foot you drive, you risk damaging vehicle components.

Beyond safety concerns, surpassing the GVWR might also be illegal. In some states, vehicle registration entails a commitment not to exceed the GVWR. In others, while there may be no explicit law regarding the weight itself, law enforcement can still issue citations for driving with an improperly secured load. Furthermore, exceeding your vehicle’s GVWR violates most insurance contracts, leaving you unprotected in the event of an accident caused by overloading your vehicle.

Maximizing Towing Capability

If you currently possess your tow vehicle and seek enhancements to accommodate heavier loads, explore these potential modifications that could augment its towing capacity. However, it’s worth noting that many of these alterations can be expensive, alter the day-to-day performance of your towing vehicle, and potentially diminish its resale value in the secondary market.

Review these adjustments that may boost towing capacity:

1. Enhancing the Hitch

The same vehicle may be capable of towing more weight with a Class III hitch compared to a Class II hitch. If your tow vehicle can support the upgrade, transitioning to a higher hitch class could provide the additional capacity you require.

2. Fitting a Weight-Distribution Hitch

A weight-distribution hitch employs spring bars to distribute the load of a trailer more evenly across your tow vehicle, minimizing sway. This hitch type is frequently the most economical method of enhancing towing capabilities, as it does not necessitate replacing any mechanical components of the vehicle itself.

3. Enhancing the Braking System

Braking capacity frequently determines the maximum load a vehicle can handle. Upgrading to larger brake pads and rotors may offer a cost-effective solution to enhance braking power.

4. Swapping Out the Axles

Certain RV service centers offer the option to replace the standard axles of your tow vehicle with more robust versions designed specifically to withstand the rigorous demands of hauling an RV.

5. Installing a Larger Radiator

Towing places considerable strain on an engine. Enhancing the engine’s cooling capacity by installing a larger radiator can enable it to tow heavier loads without subjecting powertrain components to excessive wear and tear.

Do Six-Wheel Trucks Offer Significant Advantages for Towing?

A “dually” six-wheeled truck often boasts significantly higher towing capabilities compared to the same model equipped with a more traditional four-wheeled layout. For instance, in the 2024 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD, the dual-rear-wheel option can tow up to 5,500 pounds more than the single-rear-wheel configuration with the same engine and transmission. Additionally, dually trucks tend to offer enhanced stability in windy conditions.

However, dually trucks are considerably more challenging to maneuver and park, especially when not used solely for towing purposes. They also come with higher upfront costs and operating expenses due to their inferior fuel economy. Moreover, replacing tires for a dually truck involves purchasing six tires instead of the standard four.

Ways to Reduce Towing Capability

1. Fitting Larger Wheels

Upgrading to larger aftermarket wheels can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your vehicle and may even increase its ground clearance. However, this modification nullifies the manufacturer’s specified towing capacity calculations. Larger tires necessitate additional engine torque and alter the transmission’s shift points. While these effects may not be apparent when the vehicle is unladen, they can significantly reduce its towing capacity when towing a load.

2. Tire Replacement

Throughout the lifespan of your tow vehicle, you’ll probably require multiple sets of tires. Ensure that the tire provider is aware that these tires will be used on a tow vehicle. While low-resistance tires designed to enhance fuel efficiency may seem appealing, they can diminish the vehicle’s towing capacity.

What Other Technological Advancements Enhance Towing Safety?

Truck manufacturers have engaged in a competitive drive to introduce innovative technologies aimed at enhancing towing safety. In recent years, they have rolled out unique and valuable features designed to make towing safer.

When contemplating a new tow vehicle or a used truck from a private seller, consider features such as:

• Ford Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Ram Trailer Reverse Steering Control: These systems function like a secondary steering wheel for the trailer, providing a knob that allows you to steer the trailer while reversing. Given that backing up is often the most challenging aspect of towing, with the trailer maneuvering in the opposite direction of the tow vehicle, these aids can significantly reduce frustration.

Full-Size Trucks Boasting the Greatest Towing Capacities