When you call for a tow, the operator may ask a few questions about your vehicle. Often that’s to decide between the two most common methods: flatbed and wheel-lift. Both are safe when used correctly — they just suit different situations. Here’s the difference in plain English.
How flatbed towing works
A flatbed (also called a rollback) has a long, flat deck that tilts and lowers to the ground. Your vehicle is winched or driven up onto the deck and secured, so all four wheels ride off the road. Because nothing touches the pavement, flatbed towing is the gentlest option and the right call for:
- Low-clearance or sports cars that would scrape on a tilt
- All-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive vehicles (towing them on their wheels can damage the drivetrain)
- Vehicles that won’t roll or steer, or that were in a collision
- Anything you simply want handled with extra care
If you’re not sure, flatbed is rarely the wrong answer. Learn more about our flatbed towing.
How wheel-lift towing works
A wheel-lift tow truck uses a metal yoke that slides under the two drive wheels and lifts that end of the car, leaving the other two wheels rolling on the road. It’s quick, efficient, and well suited to:
- Standard front- or rear-wheel-drive cars that roll and steer
- Tight spots — parking garages, narrow streets, or close quarters where a long flatbed won’t fit
See our wheel-lift tow truck service for details.
Which should you choose?
You don’t have to decide alone — that’s what the operator is for. As a rule of thumb:
- Choose flatbed if your car is low, all-wheel drive, damaged, or won’t roll.
- Wheel-lift is fine for a standard car that rolls and steers, especially in a tight space.
When you call 972-940-0060, tell us the make and model, whether it runs and rolls, and where it’s parked. We’ll match the right truck to your vehicle before we head out.
Still not sure? Just call
Either way, your car is in good hands. F5 Towing covers emergency towing and the full range of towing across the DFW metroplex, 24/7.
Have a vehicle that needs moving? Call F5 Towing at 972-940-0060.