Towing might seem simple — hook up, haul, and drop off — but it’s hardly ever so. If you’ve ever run into the unfortunate experience of having your car towed, you’d know the nagging fear that your ride returns with a couple of scratches that were never there.
Here are a couple of helpful tips to help you avoid the nightmare of vehicle damage the next time you’re in need of a tow truck in Brooklyn.
Choosing the Right Tow Truck
There are plenty of different tow trucks — all meant for different vehicles and needs. Flatbed
Tow Trucks
These trucks are generally the safest option because they keep all four wheels of your car off the ground. They’re perfect for luxury or low-profile vehicles that you don’t want scraping the ground.
Hook and Chain Tow Trucks
These are a bit more old-school and can cause damage if not used carefully. Hook and chain towing lifts the front or back wheels, but the rest of the vehicle is dragged along the road, which could cause scratches or stress on the suspension.
Wheel-Lift Tow Trucks
These are more modern versions of the hook and chain system, except they use a metal yoke under the wheels to lift part of the vehicle. It’s a bit safer, but for long-distance tows, flatbeds still reign supreme.
Also Read: Common Reasons You Might Need a Tow Truck
1. Double-Check the Tow Hook Placement
You might not be a towing expert, but one small oversight in hook placement can lead to big problems. Always check that the tow operator attaches the hook to the proper points on your vehicle.
Most cars have designated tow hook areas, usually under the front or rear bumper, designed to handle the pressure. Attaching a hook to random parts of the frame can easily cause structural damage — something you definitely want to avoid.
2. Keep the Car in Neutral
Here’s a little tip that may save you a lot of trouble: if your car is being towed with the wheels on the ground, make sure it’s placed in neutral. If the car is left in the park, it could lead to serious transmission damage. Most experienced towing operators know this, but it never hurts to double-check.
3. Be Mindful of the Car’s Suspension
The tension caused by improper towing techniques can affect the car’s suspension. This is especially true for vehicles with unique or modified suspensions, like sports cars or trucks with heavy-duty off-road setups.
When using a hook and chain or wheel-lift system, making sure that the weight is evenly distributed is key to avoiding unnecessary wear and tear on the suspension. This is another reason why flatbeds are often the best option, since the vehicle remains stationary on the truck bed, the suspension isn’t under strain during the tow.
4. Communication Is Key
When towing your ride, you can never underestimate the importance of clear communication. If there are any specific concerns you have about your vehicle, don’t be shy to speak up. Professional tow companies will appreciate the heads-up, especially if you’ve got a car with unique features, like a lowered suspension or custom paint job.
Your Tow, Your Way
Avoiding vehicle damage during a tow requires some mindfulness. So, next time you’re in need of a tow truck in Brooklyn, remember these tips and your car will be in good hands. And when in doubt, A1 Towing Brooklyn is the go-to choice for a stress-free towing experience. We know our way around the city and will make sure your vehicle makes it to its destination without a scratch.
Give us a call today and let us take all your worries of vehicle damage during a tow.
