How to tow a disabled vehicle safely with a dolly or tow strap
Towing a disabled vehicle can be done safely with the right preparation and attention to detail. This guide walks you through step-by-step actions for using either a tow dolly or a tow strap so you arrive at your destination without damage or surprises.
Step 1: Assess the situation first
Stop in a safe, level area away from traffic and engage parking brake on the disabled vehicle. Take 5 minutes to check for leaks, loose parts, or steering lock — if the steering is locked or there are major fluid leaks, call a professional tow instead.
[Illustration: disabled car on shoulder with hazard triangles and person inspecting undercarriage]
Step 2: Choose the correct method
Decide between a dolly and a strap based on vehicle type: use a dolly for front- or rear-wheel drive cars when you can lift the driven axle, and use a strap for short low-speed moves under 5 miles. Consider towing capacity: your towing vehicle must exceed the combined weight of dolly and towed vehicle by at least 15% according to load ratings.
[Illustration: side-by-side comparison of tow dolly and tow strap with vehicle types labeled]
Step 3: Gather safety gear and tools
Collect a properly rated tow strap (minimum 2,000–10,000 lb rating depending on vehicle), heavy-duty D-rings, wheel chocks, gloves, reflective vest, and a jack with stands if using a dolly. Allow 10–20 minutes to set up correctly; underestimate setup and you increase risk of failure.
[Illustration: layout of tow strap, D-rings, chocks, gloves, vest on pavement]
Step 4: Set up the tow dolly securely
Position the dolly square to the disabled vehicle, lower ramps, and drive the front or rear wheels onto the dolly until centered; secure with wheel straps tightened to 20–30 ft-lbs or per manufacturer spec. Attach safety chains in an X pattern to the towing vehicle and check that the dolly’s lights are connected and functioning before moving.
[Illustration: car being loaded onto tow dolly with straps being tightened and chains hooked]
Step 5: Attach a tow strap properly
If using a strap, attach to factory tow points or rated recovery points on both vehicles — never loop around bumpers or axles. Use a soft shackle or rated shackle through the eye of the strap, and keep 10–20 feet of gap so the towing vehicle can accelerate smoothly to take up slack over 5–10 seconds.
[Illustration: two vehicles nose-to-nose with tow strap connected to marked tow hooks and measured gap]
Step 6: Drive with defensive, steady control
Drive at or below 40 mph on highways and 25–30 mph in town, avoiding sudden accelerations, hard braking, or sharp turns. Leave at least three times the normal following distance and brake gradually so the towed vehicle tracks straight and reduces dynamic stress on straps or dolly components.
[Illustration: towing vehicle on highway with towed car behind, visible safe distance and steady speedometer at 40 mph]
Step 7: Stop, inspect, and secure frequently
Every 5–10 miles or 15 minutes, pull over to check strap tension, wheel straps, lights, and that chains and bolts are still tight; re-torque any fasteners to manufacturer values if needed. After parking, set parking brake on both vehicles and place wheel chocks before detaching to prevent rollaway.
[Illustration: driver checking straps and wheel chocks with dolly at a rest stop]
- Know both vehicles’ curb weights and your towing vehicle’s hitch rating before starting.
- Label and photograph connection points and strap routing before driving so you can check for slippage quickly.
- If possible, have a second person ride in the towed vehicle to steer and operate brakes if the car has them accessible.
- Keep speed below posted limits for towing and avoid rain or high winds when possible — wet roads double stopping distances.
- Carry a spare rated shackle and 10–15 ft of extra strap in case of abrasion or damage.
- Practice hooking up a dolly or strap in a safe empty lot so setup takes less time during a roadside situation.
- Never attach a strap to an unsecured bumper, axle, or body panel — use factory tow hooks or dedicated recovery points only.
- Do not exceed the strap or dolly rated capacity; overloaded equipment can fail catastrophically.
- Avoid sudden jerks or emergency maneuvers while towing; abrupt loads can break straps or cause loss of control.
- If the towed vehicle’s steering or brakes are not functioning, call a professional — improvised towing in that condition is unsafe.
Was this guide helpful?
More Cars & Other Vehicles guides
How to change a flat tire safely on the side of the road
Getting a flat tire is stressful, but with a calm approach and the right steps you can change it safely and get back on the road in 20–40 minutes. This guide walks you through clear, practical actions and explains why each matters so you stay safe and efficient. Have your vehicle manual, spare tire, jack, and lug wrench ready before you start.
How to repair minor upholstery tears with DIY sewing and adhesive techniques
Small upholstery tears in car seats are fixable at home with basic sewing and adhesive skills. With a few tools, 30–90 minutes, and some patience, you can extend the life of upholstery and improve appearance without full replacement.
How to prepare a car for sale: detailing, maintenance, and documentation
Selling a car goes smoother and earns more money when the vehicle looks cared for, runs reliably, and comes with complete paperwork. This guide walks you through practical detailing, essential maintenance, and key documents so you can present your car confidently to buyers or dealers.