Flatbed Recovery Explained: Moving a Non-Running Vehicle

What a flatbed actually is

A flatbed recovery vehicle has a long, flat platform that tilts and slides back to the ground, forming a ramp. A winch pulls the car up onto the bed, where it is strapped down securely at all four corners. The car travels with its wheels off the road, so nothing in its drivetrain turns during the journey.

This avoids the strain that towing can put on certain vehicles, and it keeps the car stable. It is a versatile way of moving everything from small hatchbacks to vans, whether the vehicle works or not.

Why some cars should not be towed

Automatic gearboxes are the classic example. Many rely on the engine running to circulate fluid and lubricate internal parts, so towing one with the drive wheels on the ground can cause serious damage. The same applies to many four-wheel-drive vehicles, where turning one axle can drive the whole transmission. Always check your handbook, but a flatbed sidesteps the question.

Cars with a seized engine, a locked handbrake, a failed gearbox or damaged steering are also unsuited to being pulled along. Likewise, a car that has been in an accident might have a bent wheel or damaged suspension that will not allow it to roll straight. A flatbed carries it as it is, without making things worse.

• Automatic and semi-automatic gearboxes.
• Four-wheel-drive and some all-wheel-drive vehicles.
• Cars with locked or seized wheels or brakes.
• Vehicles with damaged steering or suspension after a collision.
• Electric and hybrid models, where manufacturer recovery guidance often applies.

Low cars, awkward shapes and big 4x4s

Lowered sports cars and vehicles with deep front bumpers can scrape on a steep ramp. Operators use gentle angles, extra ramps or lifting aids to get them aboard without damage. If your car sits low, tell the operator when you book, so the right equipment is brought.

Tall 4x4s, vans and vehicles carrying extra weight also need care, since the operator has to consider both weight and height for loading and for the journey. Giving accurate details about the vehicle helps the right truck turn up the first time.

How a vehicle is loaded safely

The operator will first check the vehicle and the surroundings, and ask whether the car is in gear, whether the handbrake is on, and whether the wheels turn. If the wheels are locked, specialist skates or dollies can be placed under them so the car can be moved without being dragged.

The vehicle is then winched slowly on a controlled path, and secured with straps or chains at designated tie-down points. The aim is that nothing is stressed or scraped on the way up and that the load cannot shift on the road. You will normally be asked to remove valuables and to hand over keys, if you have them, so the operator can steer and release brakes as needed.

What to tell the operator when you call

The more accurate the information, the smoother the job. Give the make and model, whether it is an automatic or manual, whether it is two- or four-wheel drive, how low it sits, whether the keys are available, and whether the wheels turn and steer. Mention if the car is in a tight car park, a narrow street or an underground space, as access affects the equipment needed.

At Banks of the Tyne in Hebburn we handle non-running vehicle recovery and breakdown recovery, and we can talk through your situation when you get in touch. Ask what will be involved, and let the operator know about anything unusual.

Frequently asked questions