Towing is one of those industries most people don’t think about until they suddenly need it.
A breakdown happens on the way to work. A car won’t start outside the supermarket. An accident leaves a vehicle too damaged to drive. Suddenly, a tow truck becomes very important.
Because most people only interact with towing companies when something has gone wrong, it’s easy for assumptions and misconceptions to develop.
Some people think every tow is the same. Others assume tow truck operators simply hook up a vehicle and drive away. There are also plenty of misunderstandings around pricing, equipment, towing methods and what operators can safely do at the roadside.
The reality is that modern towing involves specialised vehicles, recovery equipment, safety procedures, regulations and practical decision-making.
Let’s clear up some of the most common misconceptions about the towing industry and look at what actually happens behind the scenes.
Is Towing Just About Hooking a Car to a Truck?
No. Towing and vehicle recovery involve much more than attaching a vehicle and driving away.
Before moving a vehicle, an operator may need to assess:
- Vehicle condition
- Wheel damage
- Steering
- Brakes
- Ground conditions
- Traffic
- Vehicle weight
- Recovery points
- Access
- Appropriate equipment
A simple breakdown might take only a few minutes to prepare.
A badly damaged vehicle can require much more planning.
Myth 1: All Tow Trucks Are Basically the Same
This is one of the most common misconceptions.
Different tow trucks are designed for different jobs.
You may encounter:
- Flatbed tow trucks
- Wheel-lift tow trucks
- Integrated tow trucks
- Heavy recovery trucks
- Rotator recovery vehicles
A small car with a flat battery doesn’t require the same equipment as a heavily damaged truck.
Choosing the right truck for the job is part of professional recovery.
Myth 2: The Biggest Tow Truck Is Always the Best
Not necessarily.
A larger truck isn’t automatically the right choice.
The operator needs to consider the vehicle being recovered, access, road conditions, weight and the type of recovery required.
For example, a large recovery truck may be unnecessary for a standard passenger vehicle.
On the other hand, sending a small tow truck to recover a heavy vehicle may not be appropriate.
The best truck is the one that is suitable for the specific job.
Myth 3: Flatbed Towing Is Always Better
Flatbeds are extremely useful, but they aren’t automatically required for every vehicle.
A flatbed can be particularly useful for:
- Non-running vehicles
- Accident-damaged cars
- AWD vehicles
- Low-clearance cars
- Luxury vehicles
- Specialty vehicles
However, wheel-lift towing may be perfectly suitable for many vehicles.
The correct method depends on the vehicle and circumstances.
Myth 4: Wheel-Lift Towing Damages Every Car
A properly performed wheel-lift tow does not automatically damage a vehicle.
The method can be suitable for vehicles that are compatible with that towing configuration.
However, some vehicles have specific manufacturer requirements.
AWD systems, drivetrain configurations and certain vehicle designs can affect how a vehicle should be moved.
A professional operator should consider the vehicle before choosing the towing method.
Myth 5: Every Car Can Be Towed the Same Way
Modern vehicles are surprisingly different.
A small petrol hatchback may have very different towing requirements from:
- An AWD SUV
- An electric vehicle
- A hybrid
- A luxury car
- A classic vehicle
- A modified sports car
Even two vehicles that look similar can have different manufacturer instructions.
This is why providing the make and model when booking a tow is useful.
Myth 6: If the Engine Starts, the Car Is Safe to Drive
An engine starting doesn’t mean the vehicle is safe to drive.
A car involved in an accident may still start even when it has:
- Damaged suspension
- Steering problems
- Brake damage
- Wheel damage
- Fluid leaks
- Structural damage
The same applies after certain flood or water exposure.
If you’re unsure whether the vehicle is roadworthy, don’t assume that starting the engine proves everything is fine.
Myth 7: Towing Is Only for Broken-Down Cars
Towing services are used for many other situations.
Vehicles may need to be transported because they are:
- Accident-damaged
- Unregistered
- Non-running
- Being moved between dealerships
- Going to an auction
- Going to a workshop
- Being transported to an event
- Being relocated between properties
Towing is really a broader vehicle recovery and transport service.
Myth 8: Tow Trucks Only Work During Business Hours
Many towing businesses offer services outside standard business hours.
Breakdowns don’t follow a nine-to-five schedule.
A vehicle can fail:
- Early in the morning
- Late at night
- On weekends
- During public holidays
Availability varies between providers, so it’s worth checking operating hours when choosing a towing company.
Myth 9: Emergency Towing Always Means Immediate Arrival
Emergency towing can prioritise urgent situations, but arrival times can still be affected by traffic, weather, existing jobs and the location of the vehicle.
A tow truck can’t always arrive instantly.
For example, a vehicle on a busy Melbourne freeway during peak traffic may take longer to reach than one parked safely on a quiet suburban street.
If you’re in a dangerous location, tell the towing company when you call.
Myth 10: A Tow Truck Can Get Anywhere
Not always.
Access can be restricted by:
- Low ceilings
- Narrow driveways
- Tight car parks
- Steep ramps
- Mud
- Soft ground
- Traffic
- Gates
- Bollards
An underground car park is a good example.
A large tow truck may not fit through the entrance even if it can easily handle the vehicle itself.
Myth 11: Towing Companies Always Know Where Your Vehicle Is
They can only work with the information they’re given.
A vague description like:
“I’m near the shops.”
isn’t particularly helpful.
A better location might include:
- Street name
- Direction of travel
- Nearest intersection
- Freeway exit
- Lane or shoulder
- Nearby landmark
- GPS location
Accurate information can help the operator find you faster.
Myth 12: Tow Truck Operators Can Fix Any Mechanical Problem
A towing operator may have experience with basic roadside issues, but towing and mechanical repair are different jobs.
Some companies offer roadside assistance in addition to towing.
However, a tow truck operator isn’t automatically a mechanic.
A serious engine, transmission or electrical fault may need to be diagnosed by a qualified automotive repairer.
Myth 13: Tow Trucks Are Just for Transport
Not quite.
Recovery equipment can be used to:
- Winch vehicles
- Lift vehicles
- Load non-running cars
- Recover accident-damaged vehicles
- Move vehicles from difficult positions
This is why the industry is often described as towing and recovery rather than simply vehicle transport.
Myth 14: A Tow Truck Can Pull Any Vehicle Out of Any Situation
There are limits to what a tow truck can safely recover.
A vehicle stuck deep in mud, positioned on a steep slope or involved in a complicated rollover may require specialised equipment.
The recovery operator needs to assess the situation before applying force.
Sometimes a heavy recovery vehicle, additional equipment or another specialist may be required.
Myth 15: A Tow Truck Can Just Pull a Car Out With a Rope
Professional recovery is more controlled than that.
Operators may use:
- Winches
- Recovery straps
- Chains
- Wheel lifts
- Dollies
- Booms
- Flatbed platforms
The attachment point and recovery method need to be appropriate for the vehicle.
Improvised towing can create unnecessary risks.
Myth 16: You Can Attach a Tow Cable Anywhere on a Car
Definitely not.
Not every component underneath a vehicle is designed to withstand recovery forces.
Using the wrong attachment point can damage:
- Suspension
- Steering
- Bodywork
- Bumpers
- Chassis components
Vehicles may have designated recovery points.
If you’re unsure, leave the connection to a professional.
Myth 17: A Tow Truck Operator Doesn’t Need to Know the Vehicle Type
Vehicle details are important.
The operator may need to know whether the vehicle is:
- Petrol
- Diesel
- Hybrid
- Electric
- AWD
- 4WD
- Modified
- Low clearance
The make and model can also help determine suitable towing procedures.
Giving accurate vehicle information when booking is one of the easiest ways to help the operator prepare.
Myth 18: Electric Vehicles Can Be Towed Exactly Like Petrol Cars
EVs can have specific recovery and transport requirements.
Electric vehicles contain high-voltage battery systems.
Some manufacturers provide specific instructions about how their vehicles should be recovered and transported.
If you’re requesting a tow for an EV, tell the operator it’s electric and provide the make and model.
Don’t attempt to disconnect high-voltage components yourself.
Myth 19: Hybrid Vehicles Are Just Normal Petrol Cars
Hybrids combine an internal combustion engine with an electric drivetrain.
They can therefore have additional considerations during recovery.
Different models have different systems and manufacturer recommendations.
Tell the towing provider that the vehicle is a hybrid.
Myth 20: Tow Trucks Can Safely Move Flood-Damaged Cars Without Any Special Consideration
Flood-damaged vehicles can be complicated.
Water may have affected:
- Engine
- Transmission
- Brakes
- Electrical systems
- Battery
- Interior
- Sensors
A flooded vehicle shouldn’t automatically be driven simply because it starts.
The towing operator needs to know about the water exposure before recovery.
Myth 21: If a Flooded Car Starts, It’s Fine
This deserves repeating.
A flood-damaged vehicle can have hidden problems even if the engine starts.
Water may have entered components that don’t fail immediately.
Electrical problems and corrosion can also develop later.
Professional assessment is important before returning the vehicle to normal road use.
Myth 22: Tow Trucks Are Only Needed After Accidents
Accidents are certainly a major reason for vehicle recovery, but they’re far from the only one.
Tow trucks can also help with:
- Flat batteries
- Flat tyres
- Mechanical failures
- Transmission problems
- Overheating
- Flood recovery
- Vehicle transport
- Auction pickups
- Dealership transfers
Some towing jobs don’t involve an emergency at all.
Myth 23: Towing Is Always Expensive
Towing costs vary depending on the job.
Factors can include:
- Distance
- Vehicle size
- Recovery difficulty
- Equipment
- Location
- Time
- Storage
- Special handling requirements
A short, straightforward tow can be very different from a complex recovery involving specialised equipment.
Ask the provider about pricing before the job where practical.
Myth 24: The Cheapest Tow Is Always the Best Choice
Price matters, but it shouldn’t be the only consideration.
A very low price isn’t necessarily a bargain if the provider doesn’t have suitable equipment or experience.
Consider:
- Equipment
- Experience
- Reputation
- Communication
- Pricing transparency
- Availability
- Vehicle handling
The goal is safe and appropriate recovery, not simply the lowest number.
Myth 25: Towing Companies Can Charge Whatever They Want
Towing businesses operate within applicable laws and industry requirements.
In regulated towing situations, Victoria has specific rules governing aspects of towing work and fees.
Pricing structures can also vary depending on the type of service.
If you’re unsure about a charge, ask the towing provider to explain it and check the relevant Victorian requirements where applicable.
Myth 26: The Tow Truck Driver Is Responsible for Every Part of an Accident
Not necessarily.
A towing operator’s primary role is generally vehicle recovery and transport.
Accident liability is a separate issue that may involve:
- Drivers
- Insurers
- Police
- Other authorities
Don’t expect the tow truck operator to determine who caused an accident.
Myth 27: Tow Truck Operators Always Know Who Is at Fault
They aren’t accident investigators.
An operator may arrive after a collision and see the final position of the vehicles.
That doesn’t necessarily tell them what happened.
Questions about fault should be handled through the appropriate insurance or legal processes.
Myth 28: Tow Truck Drivers Can Ignore Traffic Rules Because They’re Working
Working on the roadside doesn’t mean normal safety requirements disappear.
Tow truck operators need to work within applicable road rules and safety requirements.
They also need to protect themselves while working around traffic.
Drivers approaching a tow truck should give roadside workers appropriate space and follow applicable Victorian rules.
Myth 29: Drivers Don’t Need to Slow Down Around Tow Trucks
They absolutely should remain alert and slow down as appropriate when approaching roadside recovery operations.
There may be:
- Workers
- Recovery equipment
- Damaged vehicles
- Debris
- Traffic controllers
Roadside workers can be exposed to significant risk from passing vehicles.
Give them room.
Myth 30: Tow Truck Operators Only Care About Getting the Car Loaded Quickly
A professional recovery should prioritise safety.
Taking an extra few minutes to position equipment correctly or secure a vehicle properly is preferable to rushing.
The operator has to consider:
- Vehicle damage
- Equipment limits
- Traffic
- Load stability
- Recovery forces
Speed matters, but safe recovery matters more.
Myth 31: Customers Should Help Operate the Recovery Equipment
Usually, customers should stay clear and let the operator handle the equipment.
Winches, hydraulic systems and vehicle restraints can be dangerous if operated incorrectly.
You can help by providing information and following instructions.
You don’t need to operate the tow truck yourself.
Myth 32: You Should Stand Next to the Car While It’s Being Loaded
It’s generally safer to stay outside the recovery area.
The vehicle may move unexpectedly.
Equipment can also shift during loading.
The operator needs enough room to work without people standing nearby.
Follow their instructions about where you should wait.
Myth 33: You Can Always Ride in the Tow Truck
Don’t assume this.
Whether a customer can travel in the tow truck depends on the vehicle, company policy and circumstances.
If you need transport, ask the towing provider.
You may need to make separate arrangements.
Myth 34: Personal Belongings Are Automatically Covered During a Tow
Don’t assume that personal items inside the vehicle are covered.
Before transport, remove valuables and important belongings where safe to do so.
If the vehicle is damaged or inaccessible, discuss any concerns with the towing provider and insurer where relevant.
Myth 35: Tow Trucks Don’t Need Special Equipment for Low Cars
Low vehicles can present genuine loading challenges.
A car with a very low front splitter may scrape against a steep ramp.
Modified suspension and wide wheels can also affect loading.
Tell the towing company about low clearance before booking.
Myth 36: Any Tow Truck Can Transport a Luxury Car
A luxury car isn’t necessarily difficult to transport, but some models require additional care.
They may have:
- Low clearance
- Large wheels
- Air suspension
- AWD
- Sensitive bodywork
Providing the vehicle details helps the towing company choose appropriate equipment.
Myth 37: Classic Cars Can Be Towed Like Any Modern Car
Classic vehicles may have older systems and unusual designs.
They can also have significant sentimental or financial value.
The operator may need to consider:
- Recovery points
- Brakes
- Tyres
- Steering
- Suspension
- Ground clearance
Tell the provider that the vehicle is a classic before arranging transport.
Myth 38: A Tow Truck Can Always Load a Vehicle That Won’t Start
Most non-running vehicles can be recovered with suitable equipment, but not every situation is straightforward.
The vehicle may have:
- Locked wheels
- Damaged steering
- Seized brakes
- No usable recovery point
- Severe accident damage
Additional equipment may be required.
Explain the vehicle’s condition before the truck arrives.
Myth 39: Towing Is the Same as Vehicle Recovery
They’re related, but recovery can involve much more complex work.
A simple tow may involve moving a functioning vehicle a short distance.
Recovery can involve extracting a vehicle from:
- Mud
- Ditches
- Slopes
- Accident scenes
- Difficult access areas
Recovery often requires more specialised planning and equipment.
Myth 40: Tow Trucks Don’t Need Much Maintenance
Tow trucks work hard.
Their equipment can include hydraulic systems, winches, wheel lifts and other components that require regular inspection and maintenance.
Keeping the truck and recovery equipment in good condition is important for reliability and safety.
Myth 41: Technology Hasn’t Changed the Towing Industry
Modern towing is becoming increasingly technology-driven.
Operators may use:
- GPS
- Digital dispatch
- Mobile communication
- Electronic job records
- Remote controls
- Improved hydraulic systems
- Better vehicle restraint equipment
Technology can improve response times, communication and operational efficiency.
Myth 42: Experience Doesn’t Matter if the Tow Truck Has Good Equipment
Equipment is only part of the equation.
A powerful winch doesn’t automatically make someone a skilled recovery operator.
The operator needs to understand:
- How the equipment works
- Where to attach it
- How much force is appropriate
- How the vehicle will react
- How to manage surrounding hazards
Good equipment combined with proper knowledge is much more valuable.
Myth 43: Every Towing Job Can Be Planned in Advance
Some can.
Others can’t.
A scheduled dealership transport is predictable.
A crash on a busy Melbourne road isn’t.
Towing companies need to be able to adapt to changing conditions.
This is one reason experienced operators are valuable.
Myth 44: Tow Truck Operators Only Need Driving Skills
Driving is only one part of the job.
An operator also needs knowledge of:
- Recovery equipment
- Vehicle handling
- Load securement
- Risk management
- Roadside safety
- Customer communication
The technical side of recovery can be just as important as driving.
Myth 45: The Towing Industry Is Only About Cars
Not at all.
Towing and recovery businesses can work with:
- Cars
- SUVs
- Utes
- Vans
- Motorcycles
- Trucks
- Buses
- Trailers
- Construction equipment
Different vehicles require different recovery equipment.
Myth 46: A Tow Truck Operator Can Always Tell What’s Wrong With a Vehicle
Sometimes the problem is obvious.
Other times, it isn’t.
A vehicle that won’t start could have a flat battery, fuel issue, starter problem, electrical fault or engine problem.
The towing operator can assess basic circumstances, but detailed mechanical diagnosis may require a qualified mechanic.
Myth 47: Towing Operators Don’t Need to Know Local Roads
Local knowledge can be useful.
Melbourne has:
- Busy freeways
- Narrow suburban streets
- Industrial areas
- Underground car parks
- Large shopping centres
- Construction zones
Knowing how to navigate different environments can help operators reach vehicles and complete recoveries efficiently.
Myth 48: The Customer Should Decide How the Vehicle Is Towed
Customers can certainly explain their preferences and concerns.
However, the operator needs to determine what method is appropriate based on safety, equipment and the vehicle’s condition.
For example, a customer may request a particular towing method without realising that the vehicle manufacturer recommends something different.
The operator should explain the safest suitable option.
Myth 49: You Don’t Need to Tell the Tow Truck Company About Modifications
Always mention major modifications.
This includes:
- Lowered suspension
- Lift kits
- Widebody kits
- Large wheels
- Air suspension
- Bull bars
- Custom exhausts
- Other major changes
Modifications can affect access, loading and vehicle dimensions.
Myth 50: Towing Is Only About Moving the Vehicle
At its best, towing is about moving the vehicle safely and appropriately for the situation.
That can mean protecting a damaged car from further harm, removing a hazard from a busy road, transporting a specialty vehicle without driving it or recovering a stranded vehicle from a difficult location.
The job begins before the truck moves.
Looking Beyond the Myths
The towing industry is much more specialised than it may appear from the outside.
A professional operator needs to understand vehicles, recovery equipment, road safety, load securement and practical risk management. The right towing method can vary considerably depending on whether the vehicle is broken down, accident-damaged, modified, electric, low to the ground or simply being transported between locations.
For customers, the biggest takeaway is simple: don’t judge a towing service purely by how quickly a truck arrives or how cheap the quoted price is.
Look at whether the company has suitable equipment, communicates clearly and understands the type of vehicle and recovery situation you’re dealing with.
When something has gone wrong with your vehicle, you want more than a truck that can pull it away. You want a recovery process that is appropriate, careful and safe from start to finish.
If you are in Yarrambat, and looking for a tow truck service nearby, this is the best way to visit us.
11 Bailey Ave, Preston VIC 3072
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