Flatbed vs. Wheel-Lift Towing: Which Does My Car Need?
When you call for a tow, the operator chooses between two common methods: a flatbed (rollback) or a wheel-lift. Both are safe when used on the right vehicle. Here's how to think about it.
Flatbed towing
A flatbed tilts its deck to the ground and the entire vehicle is loaded on top, so no wheels touch the road. It's the gentlest option and the right call for all-wheel-drive, lowered, luxury, exotic, and non-running vehicles.
Wheel-lift towing
A wheel-lift cradles the drive wheels and lifts that end off the ground while the other wheels roll. It's nimble and useful in tight spots, and fine for many front- or rear-wheel-drive vehicles over shorter distances.
Which does your car need?
- AWD / 4WD: Flatbed — towing on the ground can damage the drivetrain.
- Lowered or exotic: Flatbed with low-angle loading.
- Won't roll or steer: Flatbed, winched aboard.
- Standard FWD/RWD, short move: Either can work.
Not sure? Tell our dispatcher your vehicle when you call and we'll send the right truck.
Related service
Flatbed Towing — The safest way to move most vehicles — no wheels on the pavement.