When your car breaks down or gets stuck on the road, choosing the right towing method can make a big difference. Many drivers in Kamloops, BC, don’t realize that using the wrong towing technique can cause serious damage to their car’s transmission, suspension, or tires.
Whether you drive a small sedan, an SUV, or a pickup truck, understanding how each towing method works helps you protect your car — and your wallet.
At D&S Towing Kamloops, we use the safest and most effective towing techniques based on your vehicle type and situation. Let’s go over the most common towing methods and figure out which one is best for your car.
Why the Towing Method Matters
Your car’s drivetrain — whether it’s front-wheel drive (FWD), rear-wheel drive (RWD), all-wheel drive (AWD), or four-wheel drive (4WD) — determines how it should be towed. Using the wrong method can cause the wheels to spin while the engine is off, leading to expensive mechanical damage.
For example, AWD and 4WD vehicles should never be towed with just two wheels on the ground. The best option in that case is a flatbed tow truck.
1. Flatbed Towing – The Safest Choice
Flatbed towing means the entire vehicle is lifted off the road and secured on a flat platform. It’s the safest and most versatile method, especially for:
- Luxury cars and sports vehicles
- AWD or 4WD vehicles
- Low-clearance or modified cars
- Accident-damaged vehicles
Kamloops roads can also be hilly or icy, especially around Highway 1 and Highway 5, so choosing the right towing style ensures your vehicle stays stable during transport.
This method keeps your car’s tires and suspension completely off the ground, preventing extra wear and tear.
At D&S Towing Kamloops, our fleet of modern flatbed tow trucks is ideal for long-distance and accident recovery towing. It might cost slightly more, but it’s worth it if you want your car to arrive in perfect condition.
2. Wheel-Lift Towing – Fast and Affordable for Short Trips
Wheel-lift towing uses a metal yoke that lifts either the front or rear tires off the ground while the other set rolls freely. It’s commonly used for:
- Small or mid-size sedans
- Front-wheel drive (FWD) cars
- Short-distance towing within Kamloops
It’s a cost-effective choice for quick local calls, like moving a broken car from downtown Kamloops to a nearby repair shop.
However, it’s not recommended for AWD or luxury vehicles, since keeping two wheels on the ground could strain the drivetrain or alignment.
3. Dolly Towing – A Budget Option
Tow dollies are small trailers that lift your car’s front tires off the ground while the rear ones roll. This method is sometimes used for front-wheel drive cars on short trips.
It’s cheaper than flatbed towing but can be tricky to handle on steep or curved Kamloops roads. Because of that, most professional tow companies like D&S Towing prefer wheel-lift or flatbed options for better control and safety.
How to Choose the Best Towing Method for Your Car
Here’s a quick way to decide:
Vehicle Type
Recommended Method
AWD / 4WD Vehicles
Flatbed
Luxury / Sports Cars
Flatbed
Small Sedans (FWD)
Wheel-Lift
Damaged / Accident Vehicles
Flatbed
Short-Distance City Tow
Wheel-Lift
Long-Distance Transport
Flatbed
Still not sure which method suits your vehicle? Call D&S Towing Kamloops anytime — our experts can advise you instantly based on your car’s make and model.
Towing Safety Tip for Kamloops Drivers
Before the tow truck arrives:
- Put your car in park (P) and set the handbrake.
- Remove valuables from inside.
- Take photos if you’re claiming ICBC towing coverage.
- Let the driver know if your car has aftermarket parts or a lowered suspension.
For insurance claims and accidents, check our guide on ICBC Towing Coverage in Kamloops.
D&S Towing – The Right Equipment for Every Vehicle
From compact cars to heavy-duty trucks, D&S Towing offers:
- Flatbed towing for maximum safety
- Wheel-lift towing for quick local service
- Heavy truck towing and semi recovery for commercial clients
- 24/7 emergency towing anywhere in Kamloops, BC
Our trained operators and top-grade tow trucks ensure every job is done safely and efficiently. Learn more about our Heavy Towing Kamloops BC and Emergency Towing Services pages.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best towing method for your car isn’t just about cost — it’s about keeping your vehicle safe and damage-free.
If you’re in Kamloops and need reliable help, D&S Towing Kamloops offers trusted, professional service — 24 hours a day.
Service Area: Kamloops, BC & surrounding highways