Does Towing a Car Add Miles to the Odometer?

If you’ve ever found yourself in need of towing services, you might have wondered whether the miles your car is towed actually get added to your odometer. This is a common question, and it’s definitely worth exploring, especially if you’re a vehicle owner in Utah relying on reliable towing services like Utah Towing Guys. Let’s break it down!
Understanding Odometers and How They Work
Odometers are designed to measure the distance a vehicle travels. When you drive your car, the odometer counts the miles before you reach your destination. But what happens when your car is not being driven but towed instead? It’s a good question with a straightforward answer based on how odometers are engineered.
Towing and Odometer Readings
When a vehicle is towed, the odometer usually does not record any additional miles. Most modern vehicles have a mechanism that prevents the odometer from registering distance while being towed. This is because the odometer is engaged through the vehicle’s transmission, which is not in operation when the car is being towed with all wheels off the ground or using a flatbed tow truck.
However, if you happen to be flat-towing (where all wheels of the towed vehicle are on the ground), there could be exceptions depending on the type of vehicle. Some vehicles, especially older models or certain manual transmissions, may allow the odometer to register miles during this process. Always refer to your vehicle’s owner manual for specifics regarding towing procedures.
The Importance of Proper Towing
At Utah Towing Guys, we specialize in safely towing vehicles while ensuring the integrity of your odometer's accuracy. Our skilled professionals are trained to determine the appropriate towing method for your vehicle, whether it requires flatbed towing or traditional towing. We understand how vital your vehicle’s mileage is—whether you’re keeping track for maintenance schedules or resale value.
What If Your Odometer Does Register Miles?
If you suspect your odometer might be adding miles during towing, it’s essential to check with a professional. Reporting discrepancies can help protect your investment by ensuring your vehicle’s mileage reflects its actual usage. You can also consult with the towing service to confirm how your specific vehicle’s odometer operates during towing.
Conclusion
In summary, towing a vehicle generally does not add miles to the odometer, particularly with proper towing techniques employed by professional services like Utah Towing Guys. Knowing how your vehicle’s odometer works in conjunction with towing is essential for maintaining your car’s value and performance.
If you ever find yourself in need of reliable towing services throughout Utah, remember that Utah Towing Guys is here to help with all your towing and roadside assistance needs. We prioritize your safety and vehicle care—because your peace of mind on the road matters to us! Reach out anytime for expert assistance, and stay safe out there!


