5 Common Towing Myths Debunked
5 Common Towing Myths Debunked: What You Really Need to Know
When it comes to towing and transport, a lot of people think they know the ins and outs. But there are plenty of myths floating around that can lead to confusion—or worse, make a bad situation even worse. At Shifting Gears Towing and Transport, we’ve heard it all, and we’re here to set the record straight. Whether you’re stuck on the side of the road or planning a long-distance move, knowing the truth about towing can save you time, money, and stress. Let’s break down five of the most common towing myths and the facts behind them.
1. Myth: "Any Vehicle Can Tow Another Vehicle"
A lot of people think that just because they have a tow rope and a decent-sized car, they can haul another vehicle on their own. Unfortunately, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Towing is not as simple as hooking up two cars and driving away.
The Truth: Towing requires specialized equipment, knowledge, and the right vehicle for the job. Towing with an improper vehicle can lead to serious damage to both the towing vehicle and the one being towed—not to mention putting you at risk for accidents or breakdowns. Professional tow trucks are equipped with the right technology and safety measures to ensure the towed vehicle is transported securely, without causing harm to the drivetrain, transmission, or other vital parts.
At Shifting Gears, we use a fleet of purpose-built tow trucks designed to handle a range of vehicles, from small cars to heavy machinery, ensuring the job is done safely and efficiently.
2. Myth: "I Don't Need a Tow, I Can Fix It Myself"
We’ve all been there: car trouble on the side of the road, and the temptation to get under the hood and try to fix it yourself is strong. After all, you’ve seen the YouTube tutorials, right? However, modern vehicles are complex machines, and roadside fixes often require specialized tools and knowledge.
The Truth: While it’s great to know how to handle minor issues like a flat tire or low oil, many breakdowns require more expertise than what can be handled on the side of the road. Trying to fix a mechanical issue without the right tools or training can lead to further damage, higher repair costs, or even injuries.
Calling a professional towing service like Shifting Gears ensures that your vehicle is safely transported to a mechanic where it can be properly assessed and repaired without risking additional problems.
3. Myth: "Towing is Expensive and I Should Only Use It as a Last Resort"
Many people avoid calling a towing service because they assume it’s going to cost them an arm and a leg. As a result, they delay getting help or attempt unsafe roadside solutions. However, towing services are often more affordable than you think, especially when compared to the potential costs of further vehicle damage.
The Truth: Towing doesn’t have to break the bank. At Shifting Gears, we believe in offering transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Plus, the cost of a tow is a small price to pay when you consider the alternatives, such as risking further damage to your vehicle or even getting into an accident by trying to drive a compromised car. Getting a professional tow can actually save you money in the long run by ensuring your vehicle is safely transported for repair.
4. Myth: "Only Cars Can Be Towed"
When people think of towing services, they typically picture cars or trucks being transported after a breakdown or accident. But towing isn’t just for automobiles—there are a wide range of things that can be safely and efficiently towed with the right equipment.
The Truth: At Shifting Gears, we tow more than just cars. From motorcycles to caravans and heavy machinery, our services cover a broad spectrum of transport needs. Whether you’re moving a vintage motorbike, relocating industrial equipment, or towing a small boat, our team has the experience and equipment to handle it all. No matter the size or type of vehicle or equipment, we’ve got the right tools and trucks to get the job done.
5. Myth: "Towing Can Damage My Vehicle"
One of the biggest concerns people have when their car is being towed is the potential for damage. While it's true that towing needs to be done carefully, the fear that your vehicle will be damaged during transport is usually based on outdated methods or improper towing techniques.
The Truth: Modern towing methods, like flatbed towing or wheel-lift towing, are designed to safely transport your vehicle without causing any damage. At Shifting Gears, we ensure that all vehicles are properly secured and transported using the best technique for the specific situation. Our experienced drivers are trained to handle vehicles of all types and sizes with the utmost care. In fact, the risk of damage is often greater when you attempt to move the vehicle yourself or wait too long to call for professional help.
When it comes to towing and transport, knowledge is key. By debunking these common myths, we hope to give you the confidence to call a professional towing service when you need it, without hesitation or fear of extra costs. At Shifting Gears Towing and Transport, we’re committed to providing fast, reliable, and safe services for all your vehicle and machinery transport needs. So the next time you find yourself stuck on the road or in need of transport, remember: with Shifting Gears, you have it, we tow it.
