Towing a car can seem daunting, but with the right preparation and knowledge, you can safely tow a car with a U-Haul tow dolly. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, from understanding your equipment to hitting the road with confidence, ensuring a smooth and secure journey for your vehicle.

Understanding U-Haul Tow Dollies

how to tow a car with a uhaul tow dolly — How to Tow a Car with a U-Haul Tow Dolly Safely

Before you embark on your towing adventure, it’s crucial to understand what a tow dolly is, when to use it, and its specific features. This foundational knowledge ensures you make informed decisions and maintain safety throughout the process.

What is a Tow Dolly?

A tow dolly is a two-wheeled trailer designed to lift the front wheels of a vehicle off the ground while its rear wheels remain on the road. It’s an economical and practical solution for moving front-wheel-drive (FWD) or some rear-wheel-drive (RWD) vehicles over short to moderate distances. Unlike a full car carrier, which lifts the entire vehicle, a tow dolly requires the towed vehicle’s rear wheels to roll freely, making proper preparation of the towed vehicle essential. The primary advantage of a tow dolly is its lighter weight and easier maneuverability compared to a full trailer, which can translate to better fuel efficiency for your tow vehicle. It’s often chosen by individuals moving a secondary car, relocating, or transporting a vehicle for repair, offering a balance between cost, convenience, and functionality.

When to Use a Tow Dolly vs. a Car Trailer

Choosing between a tow dolly and a full car trailer depends on several factors, including the type of vehicle being towed, the distance, and your tow vehicle’s capacity. A tow dolly is generally recommended for front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicles, as their drive wheels are at the front. For rear-wheel-drive (RWD) or all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicles, additional steps like disconnecting the drive shaft or removing axles are often necessary to prevent transmission damage, making a full car trailer a safer and simpler option in many cases. Full car trailers lift all four wheels off the ground, eliminating concerns about mileage accumulation, tire wear on the towed vehicle, and potential drivetrain damage.

Distance also plays a role. For local moves or shorter trips, a tow dolly can be perfectly adequate. For cross-country moves or transporting valuable or delicate vehicles, a full trailer might provide more peace of mind due to enhanced stability and complete vehicle protection. The decision also hinges on your towing experience; trailers can be more challenging to maneuver, especially when backing up. Always refer to the U-Haul guidelines and your vehicle’s owner’s manual to ensure compatibility and safety for your specific situation. This careful assessment helps prevent costly mistakes and ensures the integrity of both your towing and towed vehicles.

Key Features of U-Haul Tow Dollies

U-Haul tow dollies are designed for user-friendliness and safety, incorporating several key features that facilitate secure vehicle transport. They typically come with integrated ramps for easy loading, making the process of driving your car onto the dolly straightforward. Heavy-duty wheel straps are a standard feature, designed to securely cradle and hold the front wheels of the towed vehicle, preventing movement during transit. These straps are adjustable to accommodate various tire sizes. Safety chains are also provided, offering an additional layer of security by connecting the towed vehicle directly to the dolly frame, independent of the wheel straps.

Another important feature is the independent suspension system found on many U-Haul dollies, which helps absorb road shocks and provides a smoother ride for the towed vehicle, reducing stress on its suspension components. The dollies are equipped with running lights, turn signals, and brake lights, which are essential for road legality and visibility, especially during night towing or adverse weather conditions. These electrical connections are typically managed via a standard flat 4-pin connector. Understanding these features and how to properly use them is paramount to ensuring a safe and compliant towing operation. Always inspect these components before each use to confirm they are in good working order.

Pre-Towing Preparations: What You Need to Know

Thorough preparation is the cornerstone of safe and successful towing. This section outlines critical checks and steps you must complete before you even think about loading your car onto the dolly. Overlooking any of these details can lead to significant problems on the road.

Checking Tow Vehicle Compatibility

The first and most critical step in preparing to tow a car with a U-Haul tow dolly is to ensure your tow vehicle is up to the task. Not all vehicles are suitable for towing, and even those that are have specific limitations. You must consult your tow vehicle’s owner’s manual to find its Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR), and maximum tongue weight capacity. These figures will dictate the maximum total weight your vehicle can safely tow, including the tow dolly itself and the car being towed.

U-Haul provides specific weight limits for their tow dollies, which must be adhered to. Your tow vehicle must have sufficient horsepower and torque to handle the additional load, particularly when navigating inclines or adverse weather conditions. Additionally, your tow vehicle must be equipped with a proper hitch receiver and a hitch ball of the correct size to match the dolly’s coupler. Most U-Haul tow dollies require a 2-inch hitch ball. Ensuring proper electrical connections for the dolly’s lights is also essential. A mismatch in compatibility can lead to unstable towing, excessive wear on your tow vehicle, or even dangerous situations on the highway. Always prioritize safety and stay within your vehicle’s specified limits.

Inspecting the Tow Dolly

Before you connect the tow dolly to your vehicle or load a car, a thorough inspection of the dolly itself is essential. This check helps identify any potential issues that could compromise safety during transit. Begin by inspecting the tires on the tow dolly. Check their pressure against the recommended PSI (usually marked on the dolly or in the rental agreement), and look for any signs of excessive wear, cracks, bulges, or punctures. Ensure the lug nuts are present and appear tightened.

Next, examine the wheel straps and safety chains. Verify that the straps are free from cuts, fraying, or other damage and that their ratchecheting mechanisms operate smoothly. Confirm the safety chains are robust and free from rust or deformation. Inspect the electrical wiring and light connections, ensuring they are intact and free of visible damage. Test the functionality of the dolly’s lights (running lights, brake lights, and turn signals) once connected to your tow vehicle. Finally, check the coupler mechanism for proper operation and ensure it securely latches onto the hitch ball. If you identify any damage or malfunction, do not use the dolly; report it to U-Haul immediately.

Preparing the Car to be Towed

Properly preparing the vehicle you intend to tow with a U-Haul tow dolly is arguably the most critical step for safe and damage-free transport. This involves understanding your car’s specifications and taking specific measures to secure it.

Vehicle Weight and Dolly Capacity

Every U-Haul tow dolly has a maximum weight capacity, which you absolutely must not exceed. This capacity includes the weight of the vehicle being towed. Before renting, know the exact curb weight of the car you intend to tow. This information can usually be found in your car’s owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. Exceeding the dolly’s weight limit can lead to structural failure of the dolly, loss of control while driving, or severe damage to your tow vehicle. When calculating the total weight, also consider any heavy items left inside the towed car. It’s always safer to be well below the maximum capacity rather than right at the limit.

Disconnecting the Drive Shaft (FWD vs. RWD vs. AWD)

This is a crucial step that varies significantly based on your car’s drivetrain.

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): Most FWD vehicles can be safely towed with their front wheels on the dolly and rear wheels on the ground without disconnecting anything. Since the drive wheels are lifted, the transmission is not engaged.
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): For RWD vehicles, if the front wheels are on the dolly and the rear wheels are on the ground, the transmission will still be engaged and rotating. This can cause severe transmission damage from lack of lubrication, as the transmission pump often relies on the engine running. To avoid this, you MUST either disconnect the drive shaft or remove the rear axles. If these steps are beyond your capability, consider using a full car trailer, which lifts all four wheels, or consulting a professional mechanic.
All-Wheel Drive (AWD): AWD vehicles are generally NOT suitable for tow dollies. Because all four wheels are connected to the drivetrain, towing an AWD vehicle with only two wheels lifted can cause significant and often irreparable damage to the transfer case, transmission, and differentials. For AWD vehicles, a full car trailer that lifts all four wheels off the ground is almost always required. Attempting to tow an AWD vehicle with a tow dolly is highly discouraged.

Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific towing instructions, as some manufacturers have unique recommendations or restrictions.

Steering Wheel and Parking Brake

Once the car is loaded onto the dolly, you must ensure the steering wheel is unlocked and free to turn. This is critical for the towed car to track properly behind the tow vehicle, especially around corners. If the steering wheel is locked, the front wheels will not pivot, and the towed vehicle will essentially be dragged sideways, causing tire damage and potential loss of control. Many modern vehicles have a steering column lock that engages when the key is removed. To keep the steering unlocked, you may need to leave the key in the ignition in the “ACC” or “ON” position (without starting the engine) or follow specific instructions in your owner’s manual for “flat towing.” However, remember that leaving the key in “ACC” can drain the car’s battery over long distances.

The parking brake on the towed vehicle should be released. The rear wheels need to roll freely. Engaging the parking brake will cause excessive tire wear, potential brake damage, and create drag, making towing difficult and unsafe.

Other Important Checks

Remove Loose Items: Secure or remove any loose items from both the interior and exterior of the car being towed. This includes antennas, spoiler extensions, or anything that could be damaged by wind resistance or fall off during transit.
Fluid Levels: Check fluid levels in the towed car (oil, transmission fluid, coolant) if the engine will be running in any capacity (e.g., if you must keep the key in ACC).
Tire Pressure: Ensure the tires on the towed vehicle are properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. This helps prevent uneven wear and ensures smooth rolling of the rear wheels.
Mirrors: Adjust your tow vehicle’s side mirrors to provide a clear view of the towed car and the road behind it. Consider using extended towing mirrors if visibility is obstructed.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Load a Car onto a U-Haul Tow Dolly

Correctly loading your car onto the tow dolly is paramount for safety. Follow these steps meticulously to ensure your vehicle is securely positioned and ready for transport. This process directly addresses how to tow a car with a U-Haul tow dolly safely and effectively.

Positioning the Tow Dolly

Before you begin loading, find a flat, level, and firm surface to position both your tow vehicle and the tow dolly. This ensures stability throughout the loading process and prevents the dolly or car from rolling unexpectedly. Park your tow vehicle in the desired direction of travel, as backing up with a tow dolly attached can be challenging. Position the tow dolly directly behind your tow vehicle, ensuring there’s enough space to safely maneuver the car being towed onto the ramps. Engage the parking brake on your tow vehicle and turn off the engine. If the tow dolly has a tongue jack, lower it to stabilize the dolly and ensure it won’t tip during loading. Chock the wheels of the tow dolly if you have wheel chocks available, adding an extra layer of security.

Securing the Dolly to the Tow Vehicle

Properly attaching the tow dolly to your tow vehicle is the critical first connection. Begin by making sure your tow vehicle is parked on level ground with the parking brake engaged. Carefully lift the tow dolly’s coupler onto your tow vehicle’s hitch ball. Ensure the coupler fully seats over the ball. Close the latch or locking mechanism on the coupler and insert the safety pin or lock to prevent accidental disengagement. Once secured, lift the dolly tongue slightly to verify the connection is firm and the coupler doesn’t lift off the ball.

Next, attach the safety chains from the tow dolly to your tow vehicle. These chains should be crossed under the dolly’s tongue, forming an “X” shape. This configuration helps cradle the tongue if it separates from the hitch, preventing it from digging into the road. Ensure the chains have enough slack to allow for turns but are not dragging on the ground. Finally, connect the dolly’s electrical plug (usually a flat 4-pin connector) into your tow vehicle’s corresponding receptacle. Turn on your tow vehicle’s lights, activate the turn signals, and press the brake pedal to test all the dolly’s lights are functioning correctly.

Driving the Car onto the Dolly Ramps

This step requires careful attention and a steady hand. With the tow dolly securely attached to your tow vehicle, align the car you’re towing directly in front of the dolly ramps. Ensure the steering wheel of the towed car is unlocked (as discussed in preparation) and centered. Slowly and carefully drive the car up the ramps, guiding its front wheels into the cradles of the dolly. It’s helpful to have a spotter outside the vehicle guiding you to ensure perfect alignment and prevent driving off the ramps. Continue driving until the front wheels are fully seated and snug in the dolly’s wheel cradles. Once the car is in position, engage the parking brake of the towed car (temporarily, just for securing the straps), turn off its engine, and remove the key if possible, remembering to leave the steering unlocked.

Securing the Car with Wheel Straps

With the car’s front wheels seated in the dolly’s cradles, it’s time to secure them using the heavy-duty wheel straps. Take each strap and position it over the top of the tire, making sure it’s centered and not twisted. Feed the loose end of the strap into the ratcheting mechanism on the dolly. Begin ratcheting the strap down, alternating between both sides, until the tire is compressed firmly into the cradle. The straps should be tight enough that the car’s front wheels cannot move or shift, but not so tight that they damage the tires or dolly structure. It’s often recommended to check the straps after driving a short distance (e.g., 5-10 miles) and re-tighten if necessary, as the load can settle during initial travel.

Attaching Safety Chains

After securing the wheels with straps, attach the auxiliary safety chains provided with the dolly to the frame of the towed vehicle. Locate sturdy, structural points on the frame or suspension components of the towed car (avoid exhaust pipes, brake lines, or plastic trim). Attach one end of each chain to these points and the other end to the corresponding tie-down points on the tow dolly. These chains provide a vital backup in case the wheel straps fail, preventing the towed vehicle from separating from the dolly. Ensure there is some slack in the chains to allow for vehicle movement, but not so much that they could drag on the ground. Double-check all connections—hitch, safety chains, wheel straps—before moving.

Connecting the Tow Dolly to Your Tow Vehicle

Even after loading, the connections between your tow vehicle and the dolly require careful attention. These steps ensure the physical and electrical links are robust for the journey.

Hitch Ball and Coupler

The connection between your tow vehicle’s hitch ball and the tow dolly’s coupler is the primary link and must be absolutely secure. First, ensure you are using the correct size hitch ball—U-Haul tow dollies typically require a 2-inch diameter ball. Lubricate the hitch ball lightly to reduce friction and wear. Lower the dolly’s coupler onto the hitch ball, making sure it fully encapsulates the ball. Listen for a click or visually confirm that the locking mechanism on the coupler has engaged. Then, push down on the dolly’s tongue to verify that the coupler is firmly seated and cannot be pulled off the ball. Engage the coupler’s secondary safety latch or pin, if present, which adds another layer of protection against accidental detachment. This secure connection is foundational to safely towing a car with a U-Haul tow dolly.

Safety Chains for the Dolly

Beyond the primary hitch connection, the tow dolly’s safety chains serve as a critical backup. These chains prevent the dolly from completely separating from your tow vehicle should the primary hitch fail. Attach the safety chains from the tow dolly to the designated chain loops or holes on your tow vehicle’s hitch receiver. The correct method is to cross the chains underneath the dolly’s tongue, forming an “X” pattern. This configuration acts as a cradle, preventing the tongue from dropping to the ground if it detaches. Ensure there is enough slack in the chains to allow for turns without becoming taut, but not so much that they drag on the ground. Double-check that both ends of each chain are securely fastened.

Electrical Connections (Lights)

Functional lighting is non-negotiable for safe and legal towing. The tow dolly is equipped with tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals, all of which must synchronize with your tow vehicle. Connect the tow dolly’s electrical wiring harness (typically a 4-flat pin connector) into your tow vehicle’s corresponding receptacle. Once connected, perform a thorough test of all lighting functions. Have someone observe the dolly’s lights while you activate your tow vehicle’s running lights, left turn signal, right turn signal, and brake pedal. Confirm that all lights on the dolly illuminate brightly and correctly. If any lights are not working, check the connections for corrosion or damage, and ensure the pins are fully inserted. A malfunctioning lighting system can lead to tickets and significantly increases the risk of an accident, especially in low visibility conditions.

Before You Hit the Road: Final Checks

Even after loading and connecting, a few crucial final checks are necessary. These steps ensure everything is properly aligned and secured, preventing unforeseen issues once you start driving.

Lights and Signals

A final, comprehensive check of all lights and signals is non-negotiable before departing. With your tow vehicle’s engine running, engage the headlights and taillights to confirm the tow dolly’s running lights are illuminated. Test the left and right turn signals several times, verifying that the dolly’s corresponding signals flash in unison. Finally, depress the brake pedal firmly to ensure the dolly’s brake lights illuminate. This systematic check confirms that your electrical connections are sound and that your entire setup is visible to other drivers, which is critical for safe travel, especially when you tow a car with a U-Haul tow dolly. If any lights are not functioning, re-check the electrical connections and wiring for looseness or damage.

Tire Pressure (Dolly and Tow Vehicle)

Proper tire pressure is vital for safety, stability, and fuel efficiency. Before setting off, re-check the tire pressure of all tires on your tow vehicle and, critically, on the tow dolly itself. The recommended tire pressure for the dolly is typically listed on the dolly’s frame or in the U-Haul rental agreement. For your tow vehicle, consult your owner’s manual or the sticker inside the driver’s door jamb. Under-inflated tires can lead to increased rolling resistance, excessive heat buildup (which can cause blowouts), reduced stability, and compromised braking performance. Over-inflated tires can lead to a harsh ride, reduced traction, and uneven wear. Ensuring all tires are correctly inflated minimizes risk and optimizes your towing experience.

Load Distribution

While a tow dolly inherently centers the load more than a trailer, it’s still important to ensure proper load distribution. The car being towed should be centered on the dolly to prevent uneven stress on the dolly’s frame and tires, and to maintain stable tracking behind your tow vehicle. An off-center load can lead to sway, making the rig difficult to control. Visually inspect the car’s position on the dolly. If there are any items remaining in the towed vehicle, ensure they are distributed evenly or placed in the trunk to keep the center of gravity low and balanced. Proper load distribution contributes significantly to overall towing stability and safety.

Practice Driving

If you’re new to towing, or haven’t towed in a while, take some time to practice driving in a safe, open area like a large, empty parking lot. Practice turns, braking, and even some gentle maneuvers. The added length and weight of the tow dolly and car will significantly change your vehicle’s dynamics. Your turning radius will be wider, braking distances will increase, and acceleration will be slower. Get a feel for how the rig responds. Pay attention to how the towed car tracks behind you in your mirrors. This practice period will build your confidence and help you anticipate how your vehicle will behave on the open road, ensuring you are comfortable and capable when you finally tow a car with a U-Haul tow dolly in real traffic conditions.

Driving with a Tow Dolly: Tips for a Safe Journey

Towing requires a different driving approach. These tips will help you navigate the roads safely and efficiently while towing a car with a U-Haul tow dolly.

Maintain Safe Speeds

When towing, resisting the urge to drive at your usual highway speeds is crucial. The added weight and length of the tow dolly and car significantly increase your stopping distance and reduce your maneuverability. Most towing experts recommend reducing your speed by at least 10-15 mph below the posted speed limit, especially on highways or in adverse conditions. Many states also have specific reduced speed limits for vehicles towing trailers. Excessive speed increases the risk of trailer sway, loss of control, and puts immense stress on your tow vehicle’s brakes, engine, and transmission. Drive defensively, anticipate traffic, and allow plenty of time to react to unexpected situations. Patience and adherence to lower speeds are key to safely towing a car with a U-Haul tow dolly.

Braking and Turning Considerations

Braking and turning with a tow dolly require extra caution. Your braking distance will be significantly longer due to the increased weight. Always leave ample space between your tow vehicle and the car in front, allowing for much more stopping time than usual. Avoid sudden, hard braking, which can cause the towed vehicle to push your tow vehicle, potentially leading to a jackknife situation or loss of control. Apply brakes smoothly and gradually.

When making turns, remember that your overall length is much greater. Make wider turns than you normally would to ensure the towed car and dolly clear curbs, signs, and other obstacles. Watch your mirrors closely to monitor the path of the towed vehicle, especially in tight corners or parking lots. Don’t cut corners sharply. Anticipate turns well in advance and slow down considerably before entering them.

Frequent Checks During Stops

Even if everything feels secure, the stresses of road travel can loosen straps or connections. During any stop (for fuel, rest, or breaks), make it a habit to perform a quick walk-around inspection of your entire towing setup. Check the wheel straps on the towed vehicle to ensure they are still tight and not showing any signs of slippage or damage. Verify that the safety chains for both the dolly and the towed car are still securely attached and not dragging. Inspect the hitch connection to confirm the coupler is still firmly latched onto the hitch ball. Quickly check the tire pressures of the dolly and tow vehicle, and ensure all lights are still functional. These brief checks can prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems.

Navigating Hills and Curves

Hills and curves present unique challenges when towing. When ascending hills, your tow vehicle’s engine will work harder, and its temperature gauge might rise. Downshift to a lower gear to allow the engine to operate efficiently and prevent overheating. On descents, use engine braking (downshifting) to help control your speed and reduce reliance on your service brakes, which can overheat and fade. Avoid riding your brakes downhill.

When navigating curves, reduce your speed significantly before entering the curve. Maintain a steady, controlled speed through the curve, and avoid sudden steering inputs. The towed vehicle will track differently than your tow vehicle, so wide, smooth turns are essential. Be particularly cautious on winding roads, as the increased length of your rig demands more space and time to react. The key is to drive smoothly and deliberately, always mindful of the additional forces at play when you tow a car with a U-Haul tow dolly.

Parking with a Tow Dolly

Parking with a tow dolly attached is considerably more challenging than parking a single vehicle. The primary rule is: avoid backing up whenever possible. Because the dolly itself is articulated and the towed car’s front wheels are free to turn, backing up often results in the dolly jackknifing or the towed car’s wheels turning sharply and rubbing against the dolly fenders. If you must back up, do so extremely slowly and with a spotter. Make small steering adjustments, always remembering that the dolly will move in the opposite direction of your steering wheel initially, then swing widely. When planning stops, always look for pull-through parking spots or areas where you can easily drive forward to exit. Gas stations, rest areas, and parking lots can be tight; scout ahead and choose parking that allows for ample maneuvering space.

Troubleshooting Common Tow Dolly Issues

Even with the best preparation, issues can arise. Knowing how to quickly address common problems can prevent delays and ensure safety.

Swaying or Instability

If you experience swaying or instability while towing, it’s a serious concern that needs immediate attention. The most common cause of sway is improper load distribution, where too much weight is concentrated at the rear of the towed vehicle or the tow dolly itself. This can lighten the tongue weight on the hitch, leading to instability. Other causes include excessive speed, strong crosswinds, or improper tire pressure on either the tow vehicle or the dolly.

If swaying occurs, do not accelerate or hit the brakes hard. Instead, gently release the accelerator pedal to slow down gradually. Lightly apply the trailer brake controller (if your tow vehicle has one) or briefly engage the manual override for the dolly brakes, which can help pull the rig straight. Pull over safely as soon as possible to inspect your setup: recheck tire pressures, load distribution, and ensure all straps and connections are tight. Reducing your speed significantly after addressing the issue is crucial for continued safe travel.

Strap Slippage

Wheel straps are critical for securing the towed car, and slippage can be dangerous. If you notice the straps loosening or the car shifting, pull over immediately to a safe location. The most common reasons for strap slippage are improper initial tightening, dirt or grease on the straps or tires reducing friction, or the straps settling after initial travel.

To fix, first ensure the car is still properly seated in the dolly cradles. Then, meticulously re-tighten both wheel straps using the ratcheting mechanism until they are exceptionally snug, compressing the tire firmly. Make sure the straps are clean and free of debris. If the straps are old, worn, or damaged, they may need replacement. It’s a good practice to re-check strap tension after the first 10-15 miles of towing and periodically during your journey.

Electrical Problems

Electrical problems can range from non-functioning lights to intermittent signals. If your tow dolly’s lights are not working or are inconsistent, follow a systematic troubleshooting process. First, ensure the electrical plug is fully and securely inserted into your tow vehicle’s receptacle. Check the plug and receptacle for dirt, corrosion, or bent pins. Clean them if necessary.

Next, inspect the wiring harness running from the plug to the dolly’s lights for any visible damage, cuts, or pinched wires. Check the bulb housings on the dolly for loose bulbs or corrosion. If your tow vehicle has trailer light fuses, check those as well. If the problem persists, the issue might be with your tow vehicle’s wiring or the dolly’s internal wiring, and you may need to consult U-Haul or an automotive electrician. Never tow without fully functional lights, as it is illegal and highly dangerous.

Safety Best Practices for Towing

Adhering to general safety practices will significantly mitigate risks when you tow a car with a U-Haul tow dolly.

Understanding Weight Limits

The single most important safety rule in towing is to always operate within the established weight limits of your tow vehicle, the tow dolly, and the car being towed. This includes the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of your tow vehicle, which is the maximum allowable weight of the tow vehicle, towed vehicle, and all cargo and passengers combined. Exceeding these limits compromises handling, braking, and places undue stress on all components, leading to potential failure and dangerous situations. Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual and the U-Haul specifications. Do not guess; accurately weigh your towed vehicle if necessary, and err on the side of caution.

Proper Maintenance

Regular maintenance of both your tow vehicle and a rented tow dolly is critical. For your tow vehicle, ensure its brakes are in excellent condition, tires are properly inflated and have good tread, engine fluids are at correct levels, and the cooling system is robust. Before each tow, check that your hitch receiver is securely bolted, and your hitch ball is free of excessive wear. While U-Haul maintains its dollies, it’s your responsibility to perform pre-trip inspections, checking tire pressure, lights, and the condition of straps and chains. A well-maintained setup is a reliable setup, significantly reducing the chances of mechanical failure during your journey.

Emergency Procedures

Despite best preparations, emergencies can happen. Knowing how to react is vital.

Tire Blowout (Tow Vehicle or Dolly): If a tire blows, keep a firm grip on the steering wheel, hold your line, and gradually reduce speed without sudden braking. Pull over safely and change the tire or call for assistance.
Swaying: As mentioned, gently release the accelerator. Avoid harsh braking or steering.
Detachment: If the towed car or dolly detaches, use your mirrors to assess the situation. Pull over safely and immediately notify authorities.
Brake Failure: If your tow vehicle’s brakes fail, activate your emergency brake gently and progressively. Downshift to use engine braking. Look for escape routes like runaway truck ramps if on a steep descent.

Always have emergency supplies, including a spare tire, jack, lug wrench, first-aid kit, and roadside assistance contact information.

State and Local Towing Laws

Towing laws vary significantly by state and even locality. Before you begin your journey, research the specific regulations for all states you will be traveling through. These laws can cover aspects such as maximum towing speed, mirror requirements, maximum overall length and width, safety chain requirements, and whether supplemental braking systems are required for certain weight classes. Some states may also have restrictions on towing certain vehicle types or specific requirements for lighting. Non-compliance can result in fines, penalties, or even being ordered off the road until issues are resolved. A quick search on official state DMV websites will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information.

When to Consider Professional Towing

While knowing how to tow a car with a U-Haul tow dolly provides valuable independence, there are instances when professional towing services are the safest and most practical option. If the vehicle you need to tow is an all-wheel-drive (AWD) model, a tow dolly is generally unsuitable and can cause severe drivetrain damage. Similarly, if your vehicle is significantly heavier than the dolly’s or your tow vehicle’s capacity, professional service is mandatory to avoid accidents.

Complex mechanical issues that require precise handling, such as vehicles with significant suspension damage, or non-rolling wheels, also warrant expert assistance. Furthermore, if you are uncomfortable with the process, lack the necessary experience, or simply do not have a compatible tow vehicle, entrusting your car to a professional ensures it arrives safely and without incident. Sometimes, the peace of mind and assurance of proper handling outweigh the cost of professional service, especially for long distances or valuable vehicles.

Towing a car with a U-Haul tow dolly requires careful planning, adherence to safety guidelines, and attention to detail at every step. By understanding your equipment, preparing both vehicles thoroughly, securing connections, and driving cautiously, you can ensure a safe and successful journey. Always prioritize safety, perform frequent checks, and never hesitate to seek professional help when in doubt. Visit maxmotorsmissouri.com for more car care tips and automotive advice.

Last Updated on October 10, 2025 by Cristian Steven