There are plenty of myths about tow truck services. Some people think towing is only needed after a major accident, while others believe using a tow truck will automatically damage their vehicle or cost a fortune.
The reality is quite different.
Professional towing services are designed to safely move vehicles in a wide range of situations, from breakdowns and flat batteries to accident recovery and vehicle transport. Understanding how towing actually works can help you make better decisions when something goes wrong on the road.
Here are five common tow truck myths, along with the facts you should know.
Myth 1: You Only Need a Tow Truck After a Major Accident
Fact: Tow trucks are used for many situations that have nothing to do with accidents.
A serious crash is one obvious reason to call a towing service, but it’s far from the only one.
Your car may need to be transported because of:
- An engine or transmission problem
- A flat or damaged tyre
- A dead battery
- Brake problems
- Overheating
- Electrical faults
- A vehicle that won’t start
- A mechanical problem that makes driving unsafe
- A vehicle that has run out of fuel
- A non-running vehicle that needs to reach a workshop
For example, imagine your car starts making a strange grinding noise while you’re driving. It may still be moving, but continuing to drive could turn a relatively minor mechanical issue into an expensive repair.
In that situation, having the vehicle transported to a mechanic can be a much safer option than trying to drive it home.
Myth 2: A Tow Truck Will Damage Your Car
Fact: Professional towing is specifically designed to move vehicles safely.
This myth often comes from stories about poorly secured vehicles or unsuitable towing methods. While improper towing can cause damage, professional operators use appropriate equipment and procedures based on the vehicle and situation.
The type of tow truck and loading method can depend on factors such as the vehicle’s size, weight, drivetrain, condition and ground clearance.
A modern passenger car, a lowered sports car, a four-wheel drive and a damaged vehicle may all require different approaches.
That’s why it’s useful to tell the towing company exactly what has happened before the truck arrives. If the car cannot start, steer or roll normally, that information can make a big difference to how the vehicle is recovered.
Myth 3: You Can Tow Any Car the Same Way
Fact: Different vehicles can require different towing methods.
A common mistake is assuming that every vehicle can simply be hooked up and pulled away.
That’s not always the case.
The towing method may need to take into account:
- Front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive
- Automatic or manual transmission
- Vehicle weight
- Ground clearance
- Steering condition
- Brake condition
- Wheel or tyre damage
- Suspension damage
- Vehicle modifications
For example, a low sports car may need extra care when being loaded because its front bumper or underbody could scrape against a steep loading angle.
Similarly, a vehicle with significant wheel or suspension damage may not be suitable for a standard recovery method.
The important thing is not to choose a towing method yourself based on what looks easiest. A trained tow operator can assess the vehicle and determine an appropriate way to move it.
Myth 4: You Should Keep Driving If the Car Is Still Moving
Fact: If your vehicle has a serious mechanical problem, being able to drive doesn’t necessarily mean you should.
This is one of the more dangerous towing myths.
A car might continue running even when something is seriously wrong. For example, an overheating engine may still operate, but continuing to drive can cause much more expensive damage.
The same applies to problems involving the brakes, steering, transmission, suspension or wheels.
If you notice warning signs such as smoke, unusual noises, burning smells, severe vibrations, loss of braking performance or major fluid leaks, find a safe place to stop and assess the situation.
If the vehicle isn’t safe to drive, arrange transportation rather than taking the risk.
A short tow could potentially save you from a much larger repair bill.
Myth 5: The Cheapest Towing Service Is Always the Best Choice
Fact: Price matters, but the cheapest option isn’t necessarily the best value.
When your vehicle has broken down, it’s understandable to want the lowest possible price. Nobody enjoys paying for an unexpected tow.
However, towing isn’t simply about moving a vehicle from one location to another. The right equipment, experience and handling can matter just as much.
Before choosing a towing provider, consider:
- Whether they have the right equipment for your vehicle
- Whether they can handle your type of breakdown
- Whether they provide clear pricing
- Whether they can explain the towing process
- Whether they have experience with damaged or non-running vehicles
- Whether they can safely access your pickup location
For a standard breakdown, a straightforward tow may be all that’s required. For a damaged, modified, luxury or classic vehicle, the right equipment and experience become even more important.
A slightly higher upfront cost may be worthwhile if it reduces the risk of additional vehicle damage or an unsuitable recovery.
Is It Safe to Drive a Car After a Breakdown?
It depends on the type and severity of the problem.
Some issues may be minor and can be safely addressed at the roadside. Others can make the vehicle dangerous to drive or cause further mechanical damage.
If you’re unsure, it’s better to stop and get professional advice rather than guessing.
Pay particular attention to problems involving the brakes, steering, tyres, suspension, engine temperature and major warning lights. These aren’t issues you should ignore simply because the vehicle can still move.
Do Tow Truck Drivers Only Move Broken-Down Cars?
No. Towing services can also help with vehicle transport and recovery in situations where the car isn’t broken down.
For example, a vehicle may need to be moved because it has been purchased but cannot yet be driven, transported to a workshop, relocated after a mechanical issue, or moved following an accident.
Some vehicles may also need transportation because they are unregistered, undergoing repairs or being prepared for restoration.
This makes towing useful well beyond emergency breakdown situations.
Can You Put Any Vehicle on a Tow Truck?
Not necessarily.
The towing company needs to consider the vehicle’s dimensions, weight, condition and accessibility before deciding how to transport it.
A large four-wheel drive, a small hatchback and a heavily damaged vehicle can present very different challenges.
It’s also important to mention unusual circumstances, such as a vehicle being parked in a basement car park, narrow driveway, tight garage or restricted-access location.
The more information the towing company has, the easier it is to select suitable equipment and plan the pickup.
What Information Should You Give a Tow Truck Company?
When calling for assistance, try to provide clear and accurate information.
Tell the operator:
- Your current location
- Your destination, if known
- The vehicle make and model
- Whether the vehicle starts
- Whether it can roll
- Whether it can steer
- Whether the brakes work
- What caused the problem
- Whether the vehicle has accident damage
- Any access problems at the location
If possible, photos can also help, particularly when the vehicle has unusual damage or is parked somewhere difficult to access.
This information helps the towing operator understand the situation before arriving.
What Should You Do While Waiting for a Tow Truck?
Your safety should come first.
If your vehicle has broken down on the road, move it to a safe location if you can do so without creating additional risk. Turn on your hazard lights and stay aware of surrounding traffic.
Avoid standing close to moving traffic, particularly on busy roads or highways.
If the vehicle is in an unsafe position and cannot be moved, contact the appropriate emergency services if necessary and follow their instructions while waiting for assistance.
Once the tow truck arrives, explain what happened and mention any mechanical or damage-related concerns before the vehicle is loaded.
Don’t Let Towing Myths Influence Your Decision
Towing isn’t only for major crashes, and a vehicle doesn’t have to be completely destroyed before professional transportation becomes useful. The right towing method depends on the vehicle, its condition and the circumstances surrounding the job.
If you’re dealing with a breakdown or vehicle problem, focus on safety first. Give the towing company accurate information, ask how the vehicle will be transported and make sure the equipment is appropriate for your situation.
Knowing what is fact and what is simply a towing myth can make an already stressful roadside situation a lot easier to handle.
If you are in Ferntree Gully, and looking for a tow truck service, below is the best way to visit us.
Dandenong Casey Tow Trucks
50 Fitzgerald Road, Hallam VIC 3803
(03) 7042 2011
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