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20-11-2025

Can you tow a truck with a trailer?

Towing motor vehicles is regulated by road traffic regulations and requires meeting numerous technical requirements. The situation becomes more complex when it comes to trucks – these vehicles are large, heavy, and equipped with pneumatic, hydraulic, and electronic systems. Many people wonder: can a truck and trailer be towed ? The answer is ambiguous and depends on several key factors.

What will you read about?

Can a truck be towed with a trailer?

According to current regulations and technical practice, towing a truck with a trailer is not permitted . These vehicles should only be towed with a rigid tow bar, by specialized roadside assistance vehicles, and not by other trucks. It's also important to note that the trailer is a separate means of transport, which in the event of a breakdown should be detached and transported separately. Towing a vehicle combination (tractor + trailer) would be technically unsafe and illegal. If you're interested in selecting parts, visit an automotive store or check out truck parts .

How to tow a truck?

Towing a truck is a task requiring specialized equipment and appropriate qualifications. First and foremost, it's important to be familiar with the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations – the owner's manual provides information on attachment points, maximum allowable hook forces, and instructions on preparing the vehicle for towing. Depending on the model and type of damage, it may be necessary to disconnect pneumatic, power, or electrical systems.

It's illegal to tow a truck using a flexible towline. In this case , only a rigid tow bar should be used, and ideally, professional towing vehicles designed for vehicles weighing over 3.5 tons should be used. In an emergency, it's advisable to use a truck repair shop that also offers roadside assistance.

Why can't you tow a truck with a trailer?

Towing a truck with a trailer poses significant risks. Firstly, the difficulty of maneuvering such a large combination makes it very easy to lose control of the vehicle on the road. Secondly, the total weight of such a combination can exceed the permissible limits set by road traffic regulations. Furthermore, truck trailers often use pneumatic and braking systems powered by the tractor unit – their absence or damage prevents safe driving.

What technical requirements must a towed vehicle meet?

The law clearly states that a towed vehicle must have functional steering, lighting, and brakes . Towing a truck with a damaged steering system, missing lights, or leaking operating fluids is prohibited. In such cases, the only solution is to use a tow truck or a specialized tow truck.

It's also worth knowing that towing a vehicle with an automatic transmission, hybrid drive, or electric drive can result in serious damage. In these cases, additional safety procedures apply or a low-bed truck must be used. Also, check out van parts if you're looking for reliable components.

What accessories are necessary for towing?

For safe towing, appropriate tow ropes are essential for passenger cars and vans. Larger vehicles, such as trucks, require rigid tow bars and mounting hooks, which must be approved by the District Vehicle Inspection Station. The Autos automotive store offers not only truck parts but also specialized workshop tools , workshop accessories , and workshop equipment that facilitate vehicle diagnostics and emergency maintenance.

Can you tow a truck yourself?

Towing a truck without proper training and equipment is risky and not recommended. In extreme cases, it can lead to additional damage to the vehicle or pose a hazard to other road users. If you're unsure whether towing is possible and safe, the best solution is to call roadside assistance. However, if you decide to tow it yourself, remember that, according to regulations, the towing vehicle must be heavier than the vehicle being towed. Additionally, you must have the appropriate license – category B+E or C+E .

Summary: Can you tow a truck with a trailer?

No, towing a truck with a trailer is prohibited. Both vehicles – the tractor and trailer – should be towed separately . Due to safety, the weight of the combination, and the technical requirements, towing such a system should only be performed using specialized equipment and qualified personnel. To avoid technical and legal issues, remember to regularly maintain your vehicles and use proven parts for vans and trucks. In the event of a breakdown, choose a professional truck repair shop that will take care of your vehicle safely and in accordance with applicable standards.