What Should You Do Before Towing A Car?

Kyle Schafer • March 18, 2022

Towing a car can be a hazardous task if not done correctly. Many things can go wrong when towing a car, which is why it is essential to take the proper precautions before attempting to tow one. Here are the most common ways to help ensure a safe tow:


Consider several towing options.

There are a few different ways to tow a car, so you’ll want to consider which is best for your vehicle. The most common options are flatbed towing and dolly towing;


Flatbed towing is the safest way to tow a car because it prevents the vehicle from making any contact with the ground. This is important because it eliminates the risk of damaging the car’s suspension or frame.


On the other hand, Dollies allow the wheels of the vehicle to roll while being towed, which can cause damage if not done properly.


The type of tow truck you use will also play a role in how safe your tow is. Flatbeds are obviously the safest option, but if you don’t have one available, then a tow truck with a winch is your next best bet.


Make sure the tow truck is properly equipped.

In addition to using the right type of tow truck, you also need to ensure that it is adequately equipped for the job. The tow truck should have safety chains, straps, and binders to keep the car secure during transport.


Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual.

Some cars require special procedures when being towed. For example, some models need to have their transmission in the park and their parking brake engaged to avoid damage. Ensure you know what these procedures are before attempting to tow your car.


Inspect the tow truck and hitch.

Just as you should inspect your car before towing it, you should also inspect the tow truck and hitch. The tow truck should be in good condition, and the hitch should be properly aligned. If either of these is not up to par, you run the risk of damaging both your car and the tow truck.


Check the weight rating of the tow truck.

The last thing you want is to overload the tow truck and cause an accident. Tow trucks have weight limits, so you need to make sure that your car does not exceed this limit. Make sure you know the weight rating of the tow truck and don’t exceed it. If it does, you run the risk of damaging the tow truck or causing an accident.


Be sure to hook up the chains correctly.

One of the most important things to do when hooking up your car to be towed is to make sure the chains are hooked up correctly. If they’re not, there’s a good chance they could come loose and cause an accident.


Use caution when backing up.

Another thing to be careful of is backing with a towed car. Make sure you have someone to help guide you and take your time. You don’t want to back into anything with a towed car attached.


Remove any personal belongings from the towed car.

It’s important to remember that it will be exposed to the elements for extended periods when towing a car. This can cause damage to any personal belongings that are inside it. So before towing your car, make sure you remove everything from it that you don’t want to get wet or ruined.


Make sure the tires are inflated correctly.

Another way to prevent damage while towing is by ensuring that the tires are inflated correctly. When a car is towed, it puts a lot of stress on the tires, which can cause them to blow out if they’re not properly inflated.


Use caution when driving.

Of course, even if you take all of these precautions, there is still some risk involved in towing a car. That’s why it’s important to use caution when driving, especially when going around corners or over bumps. If possible, have someone ride in the car being towed. This will allow you to keep an eye on things and make sure everything is going smoothly.


Choose the right towing service in Arizona.

If you need to have your car towed in Arizona, it’s vital to choose the right towing service. Many different companies offer this service, so be sure to do your research before choosing one. You want to make sure that the company is reputable and has a good track record.


The bottom line.

Towing your car can be risky, but you can minimize the risk if you take the proper precautions. Just be sure to use caution and follow these tips for a safe tow.


If you need any help along the way, don’t hesitate to contact a professional towing service in Arizona. At
Azteca Towing, we are always happy to help. Give us a call today for a free quote.


towing service
By Azteca Towing January 20, 2026
Driving in Phoenix, AZ comes with unique challenges—from extreme heat to long highway commutes and sudden vehicle breakdowns. Knowing when to call a professional towing service can protect your safety, prevent further vehicle damage, and save you time and money. Below are the most common situations where calling a trusted towing company is the smart move. 1. Your Vehicle Breaks Down in Extreme Heat Phoenix summers are notorious for triple-digit temperatures. Engine overheating, dead batteries, and cooling system failures are common. Staying stranded on the roadside in extreme heat can be dangerous. A professional towing service ensures fast, safe removal of your vehicle to a repair shop or safe location. 2. You’re Involved in an Accident Even minor accidents can leave your vehicle unsafe to drive. Towing professionals have the proper equipment to transport damaged vehicles without causing additional harm. They also know how to work safely at accident scenes, especially on busy Phoenix roadways. 3. Your Car Won’t Start or Has a Dead Battery If your car won’t start due to a dead battery, starter failure, or electrical issue, a towing service can provide jump-starts or tow your vehicle if needed. This is especially helpful if the problem occurs late at night or in an unsafe area. 4. Flat Tires or Blowouts Without a Spare Arizona roads and high temperatures can cause tire blowouts. If you don’t have a spare tire or the tools to change it safely, calling a towing or roadside assistance service is the safest option. 5. You’re Stuck or Off the Road Whether your vehicle is stuck in sand, gravel, a ditch, or a parking structure, professional towing companies have winches and recovery equipment designed to extract vehicles safely without damage. 6. Long-Distance or Vehicle Transport Needs If you need to transport a vehicle across Phoenix or to another city, professional towing ensures secure handling, proper tie-downs, and peace of mind—especially for luxury, classic, or non-operational vehicles. 7. You Need 24/7 Emergency Assistance Vehicle issues don’t follow a schedule. Reliable towing services in Phoenix offer 24/7 emergency towing and roadside assistance , ensuring help is always available when you need it most. Why Choose a Professional Towing Service in Phoenix? Fast response times Licensed and insured operators Proper equipment for all vehicle types Safety-focused roadside procedures Local knowledge of Phoenix roads and traffic conditions  📞 Stranded on the road in Phoenix, AZ? Don’t take chances with your safety or your vehicle. 📞 Call a trusted professional towing service today for fast, reliable, 24/7 assistance. Help is just one call away.
towing service Phoenix AZ
By Azteca Towing January 4, 2026
Choose the best towing service in Phoenix, AZ with our complete driver’s guide. Tips on reliability, pricing, services offered, and what to look for in an emergency
towing service
By Azteca Towing December 19, 2025
Phoenix extreme heat can cause breakdowns anytime. Learn why 24/7 emergency towing service in Phoenix, AZ is essential for safety, fast response, & peace of mind