How to Pull Cars With a Tow Strap

If your car's broken down, you don't necessarily have to rely on a town truck.

If your car has broken down, tow straps are a great alternative to calling a tow truck if you only have a short distance to travel. Tow straps vary in quality, but are generally made from heavy duty woven material and feature a metal hook on each end. The hooks are attached to the frame of each vehicle, usually from the lead car's rear end to the front of the car being pulled. Tow straps are a safe and simple towing solution when used properly.

Things You'll Need

• Tow strap

Instructions

1. Attach the metal hooks of the tow strap to the two cars. Most modern vehicles have a designed mounting hook underneath the car specifically designed for tow straps. These metal loops are usually attached to the car's frame underneath the front and rear bumper, near the center of the car.

2. Prepare to tow the car. Each driver should get behind the wheel of his vehicle. The driver of the towed vehicle should turn the ignition key to the on position so his steering wheel won't lock up. Both drivers should turn their hazard lights on.

3. Accelerate slowly until the slack from the tow strap is removed. The lead driver should avoid sudden starts and stops, and drive at a maximum of 30 miles per hour in the far right lane. The driver of the towed car should steer her car and brake at appropriate times.

4. Park the cars so that there is slack in the tow strap. Turn off both cars and remove the tow strap from both vehicles.

Tips & Warnings

• Since the engine is most likely not functioning, however, the brakes will be harder to push and not as effective at slowing the vehicle.

• Tow straps should only be used for towing another vehicle, never pulling out one that's stuck. It can be very dangerous to try to remove a stuck vehicle using a tow strap.

• There should always be someone in the vehicle being towed.

• Always use your flashers when towing a vehicle and travel at reduced speeds.

• Never attach the tow strap to the bumper, axle or any part of the engine. Only attach it to the designed mount attached to the car's frame.

References

• Tow Strap: How to Use a Tow Strap