How to Tow a Car with a Truck: A Complete Expert Guide
Fast and Reliable Towing – Los Angeles, CA | (310) 962-9469
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Quick Comparison of Towing Methods
- Choosing the Right Towing Method
- Legal Requirements in Different States
- Step-by-Step Guide: How to Tow with a Tow Strap
- How to Tow a Car with a Dolly
- How to Tow a Car Using a Trailer
- Towing a Car with a Truck: Safety Checklist
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Professional Towing vs. DIY Towing
- FAQ: How to Tow a Car with a Truck
- Conclusion
Introduction
Towing a car with a truck might seem simple, but doing it safely and legally requires the right equipment, knowledge, and preparation. Whether you’re stuck on a Los Angeles roadside or helping a friend move a disabled car, knowing how to tow a car with a truck is an essential skill for many drivers. In this comprehensive guide, we cover the safest and most efficient ways to tow using straps, dollies, and trailers — including state laws, safety tips, and pro-level advice.
If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry. Our team at Fast and Reliable Towing has the experience to guide you step-by-step.
Quick Comparison of Towing Methods
| Towing Method | Best For | Legal in All States? | Requires Extra Equipment? | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tow Strap | Short distances, emergencies | Not in all states | No (just strap) | Medium |
| Tow Dolly | Front-wheel-drive cars | Most states | Yes (dolly) | Moderate |
| Flatbed Trailer | Long-distance, all cars | Yes | Yes (trailer, ramps) | Hard |
Pro Tip: Always check your truck’s towing capacity before choosing a method.
Choosing the Right Towing Method
Choosing the Right Towing MethodDecision Tool:
- Is the disabled car drivable? ➝ Yes → Use tow strap for short, legal tows.
- Is it a front-wheel drive? ➝ Yes → Use tow dolly.
- Is it a long-distance tow or AWD/4WD? ➝ Yes → Use a flatbed trailer.
Questions to Ask Yourself:
- What’s the distance?
- What’s your towing experience?
- What’s the terrain like (hills, traffic)?
Use this selection guide to avoid damage to your car — and trouble with the law.
Legal Requirements in Different States
Towing laws vary by state and vehicle type. Here’s a brief overview:
California (Los Angeles)
- Towing with a strap is only allowed on private property.
- Tow dollies and trailers must have working lights and safety chains.
- Your truck must be rated to tow the total weight of the towed vehicle.
Other States Highlights
- Texas: Tow bars and auxiliary brakes required over 3,000 lbs.
- Florida: Lighting and reflective signs required for night tows.
- New York: No passengers allowed in towed vehicle.
Source: FMCSA Towing Regulations
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Tow with a Tow Strap
Best For: Short-distance, emergency towing of front-wheel-drive vehicles.
Equipment Needed:
- Heavy-duty tow strap (10,000+ lb rating)
- Truck with a secure tow hitch
- Vehicle with tow hooks (front or rear)
Steps:
- Park vehicles close together, engine off, parking brake engaged.
- Attach strap to frame-mounted tow hook on both vehicles.
- Make sure strap is not twisted or frayed.
- Start both vehicles and release parking brakes.
- Tow slowly (under 15 mph) with hazards on.
- Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns.
⚠️ Legal Warning: Towing with a strap on public roads is illegal in California — use only in private areas or call a professional.
How to Tow a Car with a Dolly
Best For: Front-wheel-drive cars over short to moderate distances.
Equipment Needed:
- Tow dolly (rented or owned)
- Tie-down straps or wheel nets
- Hitch receiver and ball mount
Steps:
- Align dolly with front wheels.
- Drive or winch the vehicle onto the dolly.
- Secure tires with straps or wheel nets.
- Connect dolly to truck’s hitch.
- Attach safety chains and check trailer lights.
✅ Tip: Remove or disconnect the driveshaft if you’re towing a RWD vehicle.
How to Tow a Car Using a Trailer
Best For: Long distances, all-wheel drive or expensive vehicles.
Equipment Needed:
- Flatbed trailer
- Loading ramps
- Tie-down straps or ratchet systems
Steps:
- Lower ramps and load the vehicle slowly.
- Engage parking brake, place wheel chocks.
- Strap down all four wheels tightly.
- Connect trailer to hitch and attach safety chains.
- Test trailer brake system and lights.
🔒 Pro-Level Tip: Use cross-strapping technique to prevent forward/backward shifts during towing.
Towing a Car with a Truck: Safety Checklist
Before you hit the road, run through this checklist:
✅ Check your truck’s towing capacity in the owner’s manual
✅ Verify all straps and chains are tight and secure
✅ Inspect brake lights and turn signals on towed vehicle
✅ Ensure emergency brake is disengaged on towed car
✅ Keep speed under 55 mph and avoid sudden stops
✅ Watch for trailer sway — stop if it occurs
Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Overloading your truck beyond its capacity
🚫 Using old or damaged tow straps
🚫 Skipping the parking brake or wheel chocks
🚫 Forgetting to check local towing laws
🚫 Towing in high-traffic areas without hazard lights
Expert Advice: When in doubt, call a professional towing service like Fast and Reliable Towing at (310) 962-9469.
Professional Towing vs. DIY Towing
| Aspect | DIY Towing | Professional Towing |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Low | Higher (but includes service & gear) |
| Safety | Medium | High |
| Time | Can take longer | Fast & efficient |
| Legal Risk | Higher | Insured & licensed |
For safe, fast, and insured towing in Los Angeles, call Fast and Reliable Towing.
FAQ: How to Tow a Car with a Truck
Q: Can I tow a car with a pickup truck?
Yes, if the truck is rated to tow the car’s weight and has proper gear.
Q: Is it legal to tow with a strap in California?
Only on private property. Public roads require dollies or trailers.
Q: Do I need trailer lights?
Yes — brake lights, turn signals, and reflectors are required in nearly all states.
Q: What if I have AWD?
Use a flatbed trailer. Towing on wheels may damage your drivetrain.
Conclusion
Knowing how to tow a car with a truck safely involves more than just hooking up and driving. From choosing the right method to following state laws and safety procedures, every step matters. If you’re ever in doubt — or want to avoid costly damage — trust Fast and Reliable Towing to get the job done right.
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