Towing is an essential service for drivers who experience breakdowns, accidents, or other roadside emergencies. While it provides a crucial solution, it’s important to understand the potential impacts of towing on your vehicle. Proper awareness and preparation can help mitigate these effects and ensure your vehicle remains in good condition. With this in mind, we at Speedway Towing & Roadside Assistance would like to discuss the impact of towing on your vehicle.
Understanding the Impact of DIY Towing
1) Potential Damage to Suspension and Alignment. When your vehicle is towed, especially using a traditional hook-and-chain method or a dolly, its suspension system can be subjected to undue stress. The weight of the vehicle and the manner in which it’s secured can affect the alignment and balance. Misalignment issues can lead to uneven tire wear and handling problems. Flatbed towing, where the vehicle is transported entirely off the ground, is less likely to cause such issues, as the vehicle’s suspension isn’t under stress during transit.
2) Wear and Tear on Tires. Depending on the towing method, your tires might endure additional wear. For instance, if your vehicle is towed with the drive wheels on the ground, it can cause significant tire damage and accelerated tread wear. This is particularly true for vehicles with automatic transmissions, as towing them this way can lead to transmission damage. Ensuring that your vehicle is towed with its wheels off the ground or on a flatbed can prevent such tire issues.
3) Transmission Damage. Towing a vehicle with its drive wheels on the ground can lead to transmission problems, especially in vehicles with automatic transmissions. The transmission may overheat or suffer damage due to the lack of lubrication during towing. Using a flatbed truck or a tow dolly that lifts the drive wheels can help avoid these complications.
4) Electrical System Strain. During towing, the electrical connections between the tow truck and your vehicle can sometimes be strained. Faulty connections or improper wiring can potentially lead to electrical issues, including problems with lights and sensors. Ensuring that the towing company uses proper connectors and that they are well-maintained can help avoid these problems.
Potential for Auto Body Damage
Depending on how the vehicle is secured and the type of towing equipment used, there’s a risk of body damage. Scratches, dents, or dings can occur if the vehicle is not properly secured or if the towing equipment is not handled carefully. Inspecting your vehicle before and after towing can help you identify and address any damage promptly.
Mitigating the Risks of DIY Towing
To minimize the impact of towing on your vehicle, consider the following steps:
Choose the Right Towing Method: Opt for flatbed towing when possible, as it is the safest option for minimizing wear and tear on your vehicle.
Communicate with the Towing Service: Ensure the towing company understands the specific needs of your vehicle, including whether it should be towed with its wheels off the ground.
Inspect Your Vehicle: Before and after towing, check your vehicle for any signs of damage. Address any issues immediately to prevent further complications.
Follow Manufacturer Recommendations: Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific towing guidelines and adhere to them to avoid voiding warranties or causing damage.
Towing & Roadside Assistance in Irving, Fort Worth, Arlington, Carrollton & Plano Texas
You can help ensure that your vehicle remains in good condition throughout the towing process by understanding the potential impacts of towing and taking appropriate precautions. Always choose a reputable towing service that prioritizes the safe and careful handling of your vehicle. For superior towing services in Irving, TX and surrounding areas, call Speedway Towing & Roadside Assistance.
