Let’s face it—towing has built up a bit of a reputation over the years. From late-night tow truck horror stories to backyard experts handing out advice like candy, there’s no shortage of myths floating around. But just like those urban legends about spiders in bananas, not everything you hear about towing is true.
At our towing company, we’ve seen and heard it all—from people thinking they can tow anything with rope to drivers who assume all tow trucks are the same. So, let’s clear the air and break down five of the most common towing myths that just won’t go away.
1. “Any Car Can Tow a Trailer”
We’ve had people ring us up after trying to tow a double-axle trailer with a hatchback—and it rarely ends well. Just because your vehicle has a tow bar doesn’t mean it’s ready to haul a load.
Here’s the deal: every vehicle has a towing capacity—and exceeding it puts serious strain on the engine, brakes, and suspension. It also puts you (and everyone else on the road) at risk. Always check your owner’s manual or the vehicle’s compliance plate to find the max towing weight.
Pro tip: If your car struggles uphill without a trailer, it’s probably not cut out for towing one.
2. “Tow Trucks Are Only for Breakdowns”
Sure, breakdowns are a big part of the job—but towing is about much more than stranded vehicles. We help with accident recovery, illegal parking removals, moving unregistered vehicles, transporting performance cars to the track, and even assisting with moving farm machinery.
Just last month, we had a call from a family in Richmond who needed their classic car towed to a wedding venue. It wasn’t broken—it was spotless and polished to a shine. Tow trucks aren’t just for emergencies—they’re often the safest option for specialty or valuable vehicles.
3. “You Can Tow with Just a Rope or Chain”
Technically? Maybe. Safely or legally? Absolutely not.
Towing with a rope or chain might work in a pinch for a short distance off-road, but on public roads it’s a whole different story. Most states in Australia have strict laws about how vehicles can be towed—usually requiring an approved tow bar or tow truck. Ropes can snap, chains can damage bumpers, and without proper steering control or brakes, things get dangerous fast.
We once responded to a ute that tried towing a mate’s car across town with a garden hose. Yep—you read that right. They didn’t even make it one block.
4. “All Tow Trucks Are the Same”
Flatbed, tilt tray, wheel-lift, hook and chain—they all exist for a reason. Different situations call for different equipment.
- Flatbed tow trucks are ideal for all-wheel drives and lowered cars.
- Tilt trays are great for transporting vehicles long-distance or safely loading damaged cars.
- Wheel-lift tow trucks are quicker in tight spaces, like city streets or underground car parks.
Calling the wrong kind of tow truck can result in delays or even more damage to your vehicle. When in doubt, it’s best to describe your situation and let the tow company decide which truck to send.
5. “Towing Damages Your Car”
We hear this one all the time—“Don’t let it get towed, it’ll wreck the transmission!” But the truth is, professional towing won’t harm your vehicle—as long as it’s done correctly.
Issues only come up when:
- A vehicle is towed with its drive wheels on the ground when they shouldn’t be.
- An untrained operator uses the wrong method.
- DIY attempts go sideways (literally).
Reputable tow truck drivers know how to lift, secure, and transport vehicles without damage. It’s what we do, day in and day out.
People often get nervous around towing because of the unknowns—but most of the fear comes from these myths being passed around like truth. Hopefully, this helped clear up a few common ones.
Next time you hear someone say, “Don’t call a tow truck—they’ll ruin your car,” feel free to set them straight. Or better yet, hand them our number. We’ll be there with the right truck, the right know-how, and none of the guesswork.
If you are in Maribyrnong, and looking for a nearby tow truck service, this is the best way to visit us.
Richmond Tow Trucks
123 Bridge Rd, Richmond VIC 3121
0485 856 565
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