Whether you own an older vehicle, tow a trailer, or simply drive often in Australia, knowing a few essential towing tips can save you from stressful situations on the road. Even if you never plan to tow a car yourself, understanding the basics helps you stay safe, avoid damage, and make the right decisions when you need assistance.
In simple terms, the key to safe towing is preparation, the right equipment, and knowing your vehicle’s limits. A little knowledge goes a long way.
What Should Drivers Check Before Towing Anything?
Before towing a trailer, caravan, or another vehicle, always check a few basics. This quick pre-tow checklist prevents accidents and mechanical issues:
- The towing capacity of your vehicle
- Tyre pressure on both your car and trailer
- Working brake lights, indicators, and wiring
- Safety chains connected securely
- Balanced weight inside the trailer
- Tow ball and hitch locking properly
Most towing problems come from simple oversights. Double-checking everything takes only a few minutes and can prevent major headaches later.
Why Does Towing Capacity Matter?
Every vehicle has a maximum towing capacity—exceeding it is dangerous and illegal. When you tow more than your car can safely handle, you risk:
- Brake failure
- Engine overheating
- Transmission strain
- Poor steering control
- Trailer sway or fishtailing
A quick look at your owner’s manual or vehicle plate will tell you exactly how much weight you can tow safely. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to tow lighter than to push the limit.
How Important Is Weight Distribution When Towing?
Very important. Uneven weight can make your trailer unstable, especially at higher speeds.
A good rule of thumb is:
Place around 60% of the weight at the front of the trailer, centred and low.
Too much weight at the back causes swaying. Too much at the front makes steering heavy and braking harder. Proper balance keeps your car stable and predictable on the road.
What Is Trailer Sway and How Do You Stop It?
Trailer sway happens when the trailer begins to move from side to side behind your vehicle. It’s one of the most common towing dangers.
To prevent sway:
- Don’t overload the trailer.
- Don’t place heavy items at the back.
- Keep tyres properly inflated.
- Avoid sudden lane changes.
- Drive at safe, steady speeds.
If sway happens:
Stay calm → Ease off the accelerator → Hold the steering straight.
Never hit the brakes suddenly, as this often makes the sway worse.
Should You Drive Differently When Towing?
Yes—you need to adjust your habits. Towing changes how your vehicle accelerates, brakes, and corners.
Drive with more caution by:
- Allowing extra braking distance
- Taking wider turns
- Accelerating gradually
- Avoiding high speeds
- Staying in the left lane whenever possible
- Leaving more space from the car in front
Good towing is smooth, steady, and predictable.
Why Is Regular Towing Maintenance Essential?
If you tow often—whether it’s trailers, small boats, work machinery, or even recovering old cars—regular maintenance becomes extra important.
Keep an eye on:
- Brake wear
- Transmission fluid
- Cooling system health
- Tow bar condition
- Tyre tread and pressure
Towing puts more load on your engine and gearbox. Maintaining these components keeps your car reliable and avoids breakdowns in the middle of a job or trip.
What Safety Gear Should Every Driver Carry?
Even if you’re not towing today, having a few essentials in the boot can help in emergencies:
- Tow strap or rope
- Portable jump starter
- Safety triangles
- Gloves
- Tyre repair kit or inflator
- Torch
- Emergency contact numbers (including a tow truck)
A basic kit ensures you’re not stranded without options.
Why Is It Important to Know When NOT to Tow?
Sometimes the safest choice is not to tow at all. If the vehicle is too damaged, the load is too heavy, or you’re unsure of your equipment, forcing it can cause injury or major damage.
Situations where you should call a professional tow truck instead:
- Car has severe mechanical damage
- You’re stuck in a dangerous spot (highway, intersection, hill)
- You’re unsure how to secure the load
- The towing setup feels unstable
- You don’t have proper lights or safety chains
Knowing your limits keeps you and everyone else on the road safe.
Do You Need a Tow Truck for Car Removal or Breakdowns?
For most breakdowns or old unwanted vehicles, calling a professional tow truck is the easiest and safest option. Many cash-for-cars services offer free towing, which makes it even more convenient.
A tow truck can:
- Remove non-running vehicles
- Transport damaged cars safely
- Help with accident recovery
- Pick up cars for scrap or recycling
- Move vehicles without risking further damage
One phone call can save hours of stress.
Good towing is all about preparation, patience, and understanding your vehicle’s limits. When you know the basics—like weight balance, safety chains, and how to handle sway—you make towing smoother and safer for everyone. And when the job feels too risky or the vehicle is too damaged, having a reliable tow truck number on hand ensures help is only a call away.
If you are in Boronia, and looking to sell your car or get cash for trucks, below is the best way to visit us.
Eastern Cash For Cars
720 High St Rd, Glen Waverley, VIC 3150
(03) 7035 7830
www.easterncashforcars.com.au
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