The Best Way to Tow a Car Back to Another State for Repairs: Cost-Effective Solutions

When faced with the need to tow a car back to another state for repairs, many drivers wonder what the most cost-effective and practical approach is. This guide will explore several methods to help you decide which option works best for your situation.

Towing Methods

First, let's discuss the main methods for towing a car:

Using a rental tow dolly Hiring a rollback wrecker Drag towing with a tow strap Renting a towing trailer Using a car hauler service Exploring optional repairs and local fixes

Option 1: Using a Rental Tow Dolly

If you have access to a pickup truck or a larger SUV, one efficient way to tow your car is to rent a tow dolly from U-Haul. A tow dolly is designed to lift the front wheels off the ground, allowing you to tow the entire car. Ensure you have the correct hitch for your car to make the process smoother. Remember, you will be charged a one-way fee, but this is often more economical than hiring a rollback wrecker, especially if you are towing significant distances.

Option 2: Hiring a Rollback Wrecker

Rollback wreckers are specialized towing vehicles that can carry your car on a flatbed. While they can tow your car with both wheels on the ground, they are usually much more expensive, charged per mile. This can add up quickly, making it a less attractive option for long-distance towing.

Option 3: Drag Towing with a Tow Strap

If you do not have access to a tow dolly, another viable option is drag towing. This involves using a tow strap to pull the damaged car to an open lot. From there, you can perform essential repairs, such as replacing the radiator, with the necessary tools and local parts. This can be a cleaner and more cost-effective solution, as it frees you from the high costs associated with towing.

Option 4: Renting a Towing Trailer

Another method is to rent a U-Haul vehicle hauling trailer. These trailers lift all four wheels off the ground, making the towing process smoother. The rental cost is around $50 per day. Check if renting round trip or one way is more cost-effective. Some companies may offer better deals for round trip, while the one-way rate could be more expensive.

Option 5: Using a Tow Dolly

Another towing option is renting a tow dolly. While it is somewhat cheaper than a trailer, it only lifts the front wheels off the ground. Depending on the repair needs, this could potentially exacerbate the issues rather than solve them.

Option 6: Borrowing a Tow Vehicle

If you don't have a tow vehicle and can't borrow one, consider the financial implications of long-distance towing or using a car hauler service. Both options can be quite expensive. Additionally, some car haulers may charge extra for cars that aren't running well enough to drive on the truck. Ensure that you fully understand the total costs before agreeing to the transport.

Alternative Solutions

Before opting for costly towing methods, consider the following alternatives:

Get the Car Repaired Locally: It is often cheaper to repair the car locally where it broke down or is damaged. Unless your car is valuable or the distance is very short, the costs of transporting the car might outweigh the car's value. Perform Basic Repairs: If the issue is something as simple as a radiator, you might be able to replace it in the parking lot with local parts and a tow strap. This can save you a significant amount of money compared to towing the car long distances.

Conclusion

Choosing the best way to tow a car back to another state for repairs depends on several factors, including your budget, the condition of the car, and the type of repair needed. Always consider the costs of each option carefully. While towing can be necessary, exploring alternative solutions like performing basic repairs or getting the car fixed locally can significantly reduce your expenses. By following this guide, you can make an informed decision to tow your car efficiently and economically.