Essential Information for Towing a Car, Trailer, or Being Towed

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- 5 minutes

Whether you need a tow or are helping someone whose car has broken down, it's essential to know how to tow a car safely and legally, just in case the worst happens. Additionally, keep in mind that towing regulations in some European countries differ from those in the UK.

How to determine your car's towing capacity:

Each car has a maximum towing capacity determined by the vehicle manufacturer. This limit can be found on the vehicle identification plate (VIN plate). It's important to check these limits before attaching a trailer to avoid severe damage to the vehicle or accidents on the road.

You might see two maximum towing weights: one for a braked trailer and another for an unbraked trailer. If your loaded trailer weighs over 750kg, it must have a working braking system. Smaller trailers under 750kg might also have brakes, but they aren't legally required.

To manually calculate your car's maximum towing capacity, look for the vehicle's weight on the VIN plate or in the handbook. You will typically find the Maximum Allowable Mass, the gross train weight (the combined weight of the car and trailer), and the maximum axle loads for the vehicle.

Where can I find my VIN plate?

The VIN plate is typically located under the bonnet or on a door pillar. If you have trouble finding it, refer to the vehicle owner's manual, which should indicate its location for your specific vehicle.

Towing license rules: what can you legally tow in the UK?

In December 2021, the law were changed to allow more drivers to legally tow trailers without any added endorsements on their license or towing tests. Following that change, these are the current UK towing rules

If you passed your driving test before 1 January 1997

You are allowed, in most cases, to to drive a vehicle and trailer combination up to 8,250kg MAM(Maximum Allowable Mass). You’re also allowed to drive a minibus with a trailer over 750kg MAM.

If you passed your driving test after 1 January 1997

You are allowed, in most cases, to to drive a vehicle and trailer combination up to 3,500kg MAM (Maximum Allowable Mass).

Towing a heavier vehicle and trailer combination: what do you need?

If you need to tow a load heavier than what your standard license permits, you will need a category C1E license. This license allows you to drive medium-sized vehicles with a Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) between 3,500 and 7,500kg, along with a trailer up to 750kg. The combined MAM of both the vehicle and the trailer must not exceed 12,000kg.

How to tow safely and legally:

When towing on public roads, if you are found to be doing so unsafely, you could face prosecution, hefty fines, penalty points, or even a driving ban. To ensure maximum safety, keep the following in mind:

Tow Bar: If you are purchasing a tow bar for your car, it must be type-approved, meaning it is certified for use in the UK and EU and is suitable for your vehicle.
Extended Towing Mirrors: If your rear visibility is obstructed, such as when towing a horsebox or caravan, you must fit extended towing mirrors. Failing to do so could result in a fine of up to £1,000 and 3 penalty points on your license.
Number Plate: The trailer must have a number plate that matches the towing vehicle’s registration number at all times.
Load Distribution: Ensure the weight in the trailer, caravan, or horsebox is evenly distributed. This helps avoid unstable handling and reduces excessive wear on the wheels and tyres.
Trailer Dimensions: The maximum length for a trailer towed by a vehicle weighing up to 3,500kg is 7 meters. The maximum width for any trailer is 2.55 meters.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure safe towing practices and avoid legal repercussions.

Towing a car rules:

Both parties involved in towing must adhere to the following guidelines:

Place an 'On Tow' sign at the back of the vehicle being towed.
If the vehicles are connected solely by a rope or chain, ensure that the maximum distance between them does not exceed 4.5 meters.
If the distance between the vehicles exceeds 1.5 meters, make the rope or chain clearly visible to other road users by attaching a colored flapping cloth in the middle.
The driver in the broken down vehicle must be qualified.
If it's dark, the broken down vehicle must have its lights on, just as it would under normal circumstances.

Tips for the towing driver:

Maintain a steady pace, never exceeding 15 mph.
When pulling away, use the clutch gently to avoid sudden yanks on the rope, which can cause it to break.
Instead of abrupt braking, tap gently to signal the towed driver, who may not react quickly.
Signal well in advance and avoid sudden maneuvers, as the towed driver may struggle to steer or brake.
Regularly check your mirrors and monitor vehicle gauges, especially temperature and oil pressure. If there are sudden changes, pull over promptly to assess any issues.

Tips for the driver being towed:

Before starting, ensure the ignition switch is turned to the 'on' position to release the steering lock, facilitating easier steering of the broken-down car. Coordinate your steering and braking with the towing vehicle, maintaining tension in the towrope or towing pole by gently applying brakes to reduce jerking. Stay vigilant, remaining as alert as if you were driving yourself, and pay close attention to the towing car's brake lights and indicators to anticipate upcoming actions.

Top 6 tips when towing a trailer:

Stay Within Your Limits, Check your vehicle's towing capacity to confirm it can safely handle the weight of your trailer. Going beyond this limit can lead to hazardous handling, inadequate braking, or significant damage to your vehicle.
Pack your trailer properly, It's crucial to stay within the trailer's weight limit and properly position cargo to achieve optimal distribution and tongue weight. Secure all cargo to prevent shifting.
Check your tires, This goes for both your tow vehicle and your trailer.
Check your lights, before you leave while the trailer and car are in park check the turn signals, tail lights and brake lights function properly.
Check Your Brakes work before your journey
Adjust Your Mirrors, so you can see all around your vehicle and trailer to ensure a safe travel.