Flatbed vs. Wheel-Lift Towing: What Does Your Car Require?

Flatbed vs. Wheel-Lift: Which Tow Truck Does Your Vehicle Need?

Towing modern vehicles is no longer one-size-fits-all. Today's vehicles feature complex all-wheel-drive differential systems, low-hanging aerodynamic air dams, electric vehicle battery trays, and computerized transmission linkages that will suffer severe damage if towed incorrectly.

When Flatbed Towing is Mandatory

• All-Wheel Drive (AWD) & 4WD: Subarus, Audis, AWD SUVs, and 4x4 trucks cannot have any wheels rolling while moving without burning out center differentials.
• Electric Vehicles (EVs): Teslas, Mach-Es, and electric trucks lack a true neutral that completely decouples permanent magnet drive motors.
• Low-Clearance & Sports Cars: Corvettes, Mustangs, and lowered sedans will drag their front fascia on traditional wheel-lifts.
• Severe Collision Damage: Vehicles with bent control arms, broken axles, or missing wheels must be loaded onto a flat deck.