How to Tow a Car With No Front Wheels: The Complete Guide

Life has a funny way of throwing curveballs when you least expect them. One moment you’re cruising down the highway, and the next, you’re stuck with a broken-down car with no front wheels. Sounds like a nightmare, right? I’ve been there—and trust me, I know how stressful it can be. You don’t want to make the wrong move and damage your vehicle even more. That’s why I wrote this guide.

In this article, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about towing a car with no front wheels. Whether you’re stuck on the side of the road or helping a friend, this guide offers simple, step-by-step advice to make the whole experience easier—and safer. I’ll also share some personal tips and stories so it’s not all technical mumbo-jumbo.

Let’s roll (pun intended), even without front wheels!

Why Would a Car Have No Front Wheels?

Other reasons may include:

• Severe accidents where front wheels are torn off

• Repairs gone wrong at home or in the garage

• Salvage or junkyard towing

• Wheel bearing failure that causes wheels to fall off

These situations are more common than most think. And when they happen, the question isn’t “why?”—it’s how to tow it safely without making things worse.

️ What You Need Before Towing Begins

When it comes to towing a car with no front wheels, preparation is half the battle. Without those wheels, the entire weight of the car’s front end rests on the suspension and frame. That means towing the usual way won’t work.

✅ Essential Tools & Equipment:

If you’re not a tow expert, you’re better off calling a professional towing service. Most of them have flatbeds or specialized rigs for this kind of job. Don’t try pulling it with a rope and a buddy’s truck—that’s asking for a disaster.

The Mechanics of Towing a Car With No Front Wheels

This is where it gets technical—but I’ll keep it super simple.

The front end of the car is designed to steer and support engine weight. Without front wheels, the control arms, brake rotors, and undercarriage are exposed and vulnerable. If you drag the car like that, even just a few feet, you’ll wreck everything underneath.

So what’s the solution?

Use a flatbed tow truck or install wheel dollies under the front suspension. This prevents the frame and body from scraping the ground. Here’s a metaphor: imagine trying to move a couch with no legs. You’d either lift it completely (flatbed) or slide something under it (dollies) to avoid damage.

DIY Towing: Only If You Absolutely Must

Now, I wouldn’t recommend this unless you’re really in a pinch—but hey, life happens.

If you’re somewhere remote or waiting hours for a tow, there’s a possible short-term fix. A friend of mine had to move an old truck with no front wheels across a farm. They used heavy-duty wheel dollies, some creative rigging, and a lot of duct tape. It worked—but only for short distances and on flat ground.

Here are some tips for emergency DIY:

• Use ratchet straps to secure the dollies

• Always tow slowly—under 5 mph

• Avoid hills, sharp turns, and bumpy roads

• Check every 10–15 feet to make sure nothing shifts

But seriously—this is a last resort. If you can wait for a flatbed tow truck, do it.

Professional Towing Services: Why They’re Worth Every Penny

I get it—towing costs aren’t fun. But let’s think long term. A messed-up undercarriage can cost thousands to fix. A professional towing service knows how to handle cars with no front wheels using specialized rigs, safety protocols, and trained operators.

They often use:

• Hydraulic flatbeds

• Heavy-duty winches

• Safety-rated straps and lock-down systems

Most importantly, they carry insurance. So if anything goes wrong during towing, you’re not left holding the bill.

Real Talk:

Last winter, my cousin’s Subaru had its wheels stolen. We called a local tow company, and they arrived with a flatbed and portable dolly system in less than 40 minutes. The car was up and gone without a scratch. Sometimes, peace of mind is worth every cent.

Risks of Improper Towing (With Table)

Dragging a car with no front wheels is like pulling a sled over gravel—it’s slow, messy, and full of risk.

If the car’s transmission is still intact, improper towing can also cause internal transmission damage, especially in automatics.

What NOT To Do When Towing a Car With No Front Wheels

Let me be crystal clear here. These mistakes can cost you time, money, and safety.

Don’t:

• Try to drive it without front wheels

• Drag it across concrete or asphalt

• Use standard two-wheel dollies meant for rear-tow

• Rely on ropes or cheap straps

Think of your car like a wounded animal. You wouldn’t drag it by the neck; you’d carry it gently. The same care should be given here.

Legal and Safety Considerations Before Towing

Before you even touch the vehicle, pause and ask yourself: Is this legal and safe where I am? Different states, provinces, or countries have their own rules for towing a car with no front wheels.

In many places, it’s illegal to tow a car without the right lighting or visibility features—especially if it’s missing parts like bumpers or wheels. Some jurisdictions require special towing permits for “disabled” vehicles.

Here are key legal tips:

• Check local traffic laws before towing on public roads

• If towing in daylight, make sure reflectors and hazard lights are visible

• Add red flags to the vehicle’s rear for visibility

• Avoid towing during bad weather or nighttime if possible

And yes, police can fine or tow you again if the car isn’t secured properly. So, take the legal route—literally.

Choosing the Right Tow Truck: Not All Are the Same

I used to think a tow truck was a tow truck—until I saw my friend’s Audi nearly drop off a tilted bed. Let’s just say, that was a rough day.

When it comes to towing a car with no front wheels, not all tow trucks are created equal. Here’s a quick table to help you choose:

Always call ahead and explain your situation in detail. Mention that the car has no front wheels—not all tow trucks come ready for that kind of job.

Pro Tips From Real Towing Operators

Over the years, I’ve spoken with a few towing pros—guys who’ve seen it all. Here are some real-world tips they shared about towing a car with no front wheels:

• Use soft tie-downs to avoid damaging the car frame

• Never attach chains directly to suspension parts

• When using dollies, double-check tire pressure and bolt tightness

• On steep driveways or inclines, add blocks behind the rear wheels

• If the car has loose parts (like hanging bumpers), secure or remove them before transport

One guy told me, “Every car has a story. But the ones with no wheels? Those usually have the wildest.”

Emotional & Financial Cost of Bad Towing Decisions

It’s not just metal and mechanics—it’s your car. Your investment. Maybe your daily ride or something that’s been in the family for years. I’ve seen people break down in tears when a bad tow job destroyed their undercarriage or bent their axle.

You might think, “It’s already broken, what worse can happen?” But trust me, bad towing can double the damage—and cost you more than the original repair.

I once had to help a buddy whose Mustang was dragged by a friend’s truck. They didn’t use dollies, and by the time it arrived at the shop, the oil pan and suspension were toast. The repair bill? $2,800. That’s more than the cost of a proper flatbed tow 20 times over.

Sometimes, spending a little more up front saves you a lot down the road—literally.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a dolly to tow a car with no front wheels?

Only if the dolly is heavy-duty and rated for the vehicle’s weight. Lightweight dollies can collapse under the car’s front suspension if it’s not secured properly. Always double-check specs and secure the setup tightly.

2. Is it safe to tow a car without front wheels for long distances?

Not really. Long-distance towing without front wheels is risky unless the car is fully lifted on a flatbed. Even wheel dollies aren’t designed for extended highway use at high speeds.

3. Can I tow it using another car or SUV?

You can, but only if you use the right equipment like a proper flat trailer. Never attempt to drag or rope-tow a car with no front wheels—it’s dangerous and can lead to accidents or fines.

4. What damage can happen if I tow it incorrectly?

Incorrect towing can ruin your car’s:

• Suspension

• Steering rack

• Underbody and chassis

• Transmission (in automatics)

• Brake lines and oil pans

5. How much does it usually cost to tow a car with no front wheels?

Rates vary, but you’re looking at $150 to $350 for a standard flatbed tow. Emergency or long-distance tows might cost more, depending on location and tow company.

When to Call a Mechanic vs. a Tow Truck

Sometimes, the issue is more than just the missing front wheels. If there’s frame damage, a bent axle, or engine leakage, you may need a mechanic on-site first.

Signs to call a mechanic first:

• Leaking fluids (oil, coolant, transmission)

• Visible frame cracks or bends

• Exposed or severed brake lines

• Electric components hanging loose

Mechanics can help prep the car to make towing safer. In fact, some auto shops offer tow-prep services as part of your repair package.

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone in This

Let’s be real—towing a car with no front wheels isn’t something you plan for. It usually happens after something bad: a theft, accident, or big mechanical failure. It’s stressful. It’s overwhelming. And it feels like the universe is laughing at you.

But you’re not alone.

Thousands of people go through this every year, and there are professionals out there who’ve made it their mission to help. Whether it’s a friend showing up with a dolly or a tow truck driver with decades of experience, someone’s got your back.

So breathe. Take your time. And do it the right way.