Can You Tow a Car Without Keys Expert Methods Explained

Struggling with a car that won’t start and no keys in sight? You’re likely wondering if you can even tow a car without keys. Getting your vehicle moved safely is the top priority in this stressful situation, and you need a clear answer fast.

Yes, you can absolutely tow a car without keys. Professional towing services are equipped with specialized tools like wheel dollies, go-jacks (skates), and flatbed trucks to safely move a vehicle even if the steering wheel is locked or the car cannot be shifted into neutral. This is a common service for situations like lost keys or lockouts.

Based on an analysis of professional towing protocols and real-world implementation, this is a standard procedure for any certified operator. This guide breaks down exactly how licensed professionals handle the challenges, the specific methods they use, and what you should expect during the process. You’ll learn why specialized equipment is not just helpful, but essential for a safe tow.

Key Facts

• Towing is Possible: Professional and licensed towing services are fully equipped to tow a vehicle without keys, making it a routine part of their job.
• Primary Obstacles: The two main challenges are a locked steering wheel, which prevents the wheels from turning, and the transmission being stuck in ‘Park’ by a component called the parking pawl.
• Flatbed is Safest: Using a flatbed tow truck is considered the industry standard for safety, as it lifts the entire car off the ground, preventing any risk of damage to the transmission or drivetrain.
• Expect Higher Costs: Towing a car without keys typically includes an additional surcharge of $50-$100 on top of the base fee, reflecting the extra time and specialized equipment needed.
• Ownership Proof is Mandatory: For legal and security reasons, you must provide the tow truck operator with a valid photo ID and proof of vehicle ownership before they can move the car.

Can you tow a car without keys?

Yes, a professional tow truck operator can tow a car without keys using specialized equipment. The process involves overcoming challenges like a locked steering wheel and the vehicle being stuck in park. It is a standard procedure for certified towing services that have the right tools to move a vehicle without causing damage. While it is technically possible, this task should only be performed by a licensed towing service to ensure guaranteed safety.

A common misconception is that a key is required to disengage the steering lock or shift the car into neutral. However, professional wreckers are designed to handle these exact scenarios. Operators use specific techniques and equipment, such as a flatbed truck or wheel dollies, to lift the vehicle’s drive wheels off the ground entirely. This makes the locked state of the steering and transmission irrelevant to the transport process.

In our experience, attempting to move a car without keys using improper methods, like dragging it with another vehicle, almost always results in severe damage to the transmission, steering system, or tires. The cost of these repairs far exceeds the price of a professional tow. Therefore, contacting a reputable towing company and clearly explaining the “no-key” situation is the most critical first step you can take.

What are the main challenges when towing a car without keys?

The two main challenges when towing a car without keys are a locked steering wheel and the transmission being locked in ‘Park’. These security features are designed to prevent theft but become obstacles when the vehicle needs to be moved without a key. A professional tow operator must safely bypass both of these mechanical locks.

1. Locked Steering Wheel
   Without the key in the ignition, most vehicles engage a steering column lock. This is a physical steel pin or block that extends from the steering column lock actuator into a slot on the steering shaft, physically preventing it from turning. This means the front wheels are frozen in one position, usually straight ahead. Attempting to roll or drag the car in this state would cause the front tires to be scraped along the pavement, leading to severe tire damage and stress on the steering components.

2. Transmission Stuck in Park
   In an automatic transmission vehicle, the ‘Park’ gear is not just an electronic setting; it’s a mechanical lock. A sturdy metal pin known as a parking pawl engages with a toothed gear connected to the transmission’s output shaft. This physically stops the drivetrain from rotating, which in turn locks the drive wheels. You cannot simply push the car, as this pawl can handle thousands of pounds of force. Forcibly dragging the car could break the parking pawl or damage the transmission, leading to expensive repairs.

How is a locked steering wheel handled during a tow?

A locked steering wheel is handled by using equipment that lifts the car’s drive wheels off the ground, making the locked steering irrelevant. Since the wheels that steer the vehicle are not in contact with the road, the car can be moved safely. Tow operators use three primary methods to achieve this.

1. Flatbed Towing: This is the safest and most recommended method. The entire vehicle is winched onto the flatbed of the tow truck. Since all four wheels are off the ground and secured, the locked steering and transmission pose zero risk of damage during transport.

2. Wheel-Lift Towing: This method uses a hydraulic lift with two arms that cradle the front or rear wheels, lifting that end of the car off the pavement. For a front-wheel drive car, lifting the front wheels is sufficient. The rear wheels will roll freely. However, this method is risky for all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive vehicles unless dollies are used on the remaining wheels.

3. Tow Dollies or Skates: These are small, powerful jacks on wheels. An operator places one skate under each of the vehicle’s tires. They then use the hydraulic mechanism on the skates to lift the entire car a few inches off the ground. The car is now effectively on a rolling platform and can be maneuvered onto a flatbed or moved a short distance.

Pro Tip: From our extensive experience, always request a flatbed tow if possible when you don’t have keys. It eliminates any potential for drivetrain or transmission damage, especially if you are unsure if your vehicle is front-wheel, rear-wheel, or all-wheel drive.

How do you put a car in neutral without keys for towing?

To put an automatic car in neutral without a key, you must use the manual shift lock override. This is a safety feature designed for situations just like this. It is a small button or slot that allows you to bypass the electronic shift interlock solenoid, which is the component that normally locks your shifter in Park.

While we strongly recommend letting a professional handle this, understanding the process is valuable.

1. Locate the Override Slot: First, find the shift lock release. It is almost always located on the center console, right next to the gear selector lever. It might be a small, unlabeled button or a slot covered by a small plastic cap that you can pry off with a flathead screwdriver. Your vehicle owner’s manual will show the exact location.
2. Remove the Cap: If there is a cover, gently pry it open using a small, flat tool. Be careful not to scratch the plastic of your console.
3. Engage the Release: Insert your key, a screwdriver, or a similar thin, sturdy object into the slot and press down firmly. You should feel a slight click or give as the lock disengages.
4. Shift to Neutral: While continuing to hold the release button down, depress the brake pedal and move the gear shifter from Park (P) to Neutral (N).

⚠️ Warning: Performing this procedure incorrectly can damage the shift linkage or console. This information is for educational purposes. For the safety of you and your vehicle, it is always best to have a certified tow operator or mechanic perform this task.

How much does it cost to tow a car without keys?

For 2026, you can expect to pay between $125 and $250 to tow a car without keys. The final cost is higher than a standard tow because of the increased complexity, time, and specialized equipment required. The price is typically broken down into several components.

In our professional experience, it’s crucial to be upfront with the dispatcher about not having the keys. This ensures they send a driver with the right equipment, like a flatbed or dollies, and provides you with a more accurate quote.

Here is a typical breakdown of the costs:

• Base Fee (Hook-up Fee): $75 – $125. This is the standard charge for any tow service to come to your location.
• Mileage Fee: $3 – $7 per mile. This fee is charged for the distance your vehicle is towed. The first few miles (e.g., 5-10) may be included in the base fee.
• No-Key Surcharge: An additional $50 – $100. This fee covers the extra labor and equipment needed to safely move a car that is locked and cannot be put into neutral easily. This accounts for using skates, dollies, or the extra time needed to winch a car onto a flatbed.

What is the difference between flatbed and wheel lift towing for a no-key situation?

The primary difference is that flatbed towing carries the entire vehicle, while wheel lift towing drags it on two wheels. For a no-key situation, this difference is critical to preventing damage. A flatbed is always the safest option because it completely eliminates stress on the car’s drivetrain and steering components.

Flatbed Towing

This method involves a truck with a long, flat platform on the back that can be hydraulically inclined to create a ramp. The disabled vehicle is pulled onto the platform using a powerful winch. Once loaded, all four wheels are secured, and the car is carried safely above the road.

Wheel Lift Towing

This method uses a metal yoke that fits under the front or rear pair of wheels, lifting them off the ground. The other two wheels remain on the road, and the car is towed much like a trailer. While faster and cheaper for some situations, it poses significant risks for a car without keys.

Here is a direct comparison to help you understand the best choice for your situation:

Feature/Aspect	Flatbed Towing	Wheel Lift Towing
Safety Level	🟢 Highest	🔴 Moderate to Low
Risk of Damage	Virtually none	High risk for AWD/RWD; transmission stress
Ideal Use Case	All vehicles, especially AWD, RWD, luxury cars	Short-distance FWD vehicles only
Cost	Generally higher	Generally lower
No-Key Suitability	Excellent	Acceptable only with dollies under rear wheels

Bottom Line: For any all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicle, a rear-wheel drive (RWD) vehicle, or any car you want to keep 100% safe, a flatbed is the only correct choice for a no-key tow.

FAQs About can you tow a car without keys

Can AAA tow a car without keys?

Yes, AAA can tow a car without keys. Their affiliated service providers are equipped with the same professional tools as other towing companies, such as dollies and flatbeds, to handle no-key situations. You must be present with a valid ID and proof of ownership for them to perform the service.

Will towing a car without keys damage it?

If done by a professional using the right equipment, towing a car without keys will not damage it. Damage typically occurs when the wrong method is used, such as trying to drag an all-wheel-drive vehicle with a wheel lift. Using a flatbed or placing dollies under the non-lifted wheels prevents any strain on the transmission and drivetrain.

Is it legal to tow a car without keys?

It is legal for a licensed towing company to tow a car without keys, provided they have permission from the owner or are directed by law enforcement. You will be required to show proof of ownership (e.g., registration, title) and a valid ID. Towing a car you do not own without permission is illegal.

How do tow trucks move cars that are stuck in park?

Tow trucks move cars in park by lifting the drive wheels off the ground. For front-wheel-drive cars, they use a wheel lift on the front. For rear-wheel or all-wheel-drive cars, they either use a flatbed truck to lift the entire vehicle or place dollies (skates) under the rear wheels to allow them to roll freely.

What should I do if I lose my car keys and need a tow?

First, contact a professional towing service and inform them that you do not have the keys. Be prepared to provide your location, the vehicle’s make and model, and whether it’s FWD, RWD, or AWD. You will also need to have your ID and proof of ownership ready for the driver to verify.

Can you tow a car without plates or registration?

Towing a car without plates is possible, but you must be able to prove ownership. A title, bill of sale, or old registration document can work. Towing companies are legally required to verify ownership before moving a vehicle to prevent theft, especially if it lacks current plates.

Should I call a locksmith or a tow truck if I lose my keys?

This depends on your goal. If you need a new key made on the spot to drive the car, call an automotive locksmith. If your primary need is to move the vehicle to another location (like your home or a dealership), call a towing service.

How do you get a car on a flatbed without keys?

A powerful winch is used to pull the car onto the flatbed. Even with locked wheels that don’t spin, the winch cable is strong enough to drag the car up the inclined ramp. To prevent tire damage during this short drag, the tow operator may use skates under the wheels.

Can you tow a keyless start car without the fob?

Yes, the process is identical to a car with a traditional key. A car with a keyless start system and a missing fob will still have a locked steering column and be stuck in park. A professional tow service will use a flatbed or dollies, just as they would for any other no-key tow.

How do you release an electronic parking brake without keys?

Releasing an electronic parking brake without power is difficult and often requires a mechanic. For towing purposes, it is safer and more effective to let the tow operator winch the car onto a flatbed. The winch is powerful enough to overcome the resistance from the engaged electronic brake for the short distance up the ramp.

• It Is Possible and Common: A professional licensed towing service can safely tow a car without keys. It’s a standard procedure for them, so there’s no need to panic.
• Two Main Obstacles Exist: The primary challenges are the locked steering wheel and the transmission being stuck in park due to the parking pawl. These must be bypassed with special equipment.
• Flatbed Towing is Safest: Using a flatbed truck is the most secure method, as it lifts all four wheels off the ground, eliminating any risk of damage to the transmission or drivetrain, especially for AWD vehicles.
• Specialized Equipment is Key: Tow operators use tools like tow dollies (skates) or wheel lifts to lift the drive wheels, making the locked steering and transmission irrelevant during the move.
• Prepare for Higher Costs: Expect to pay an extra fee of $50-$100 on top of the standard tow rate due to the additional time, labor, and equipment required for a towing a car without keys job.
• Proof of Ownership is Mandatory: Be prepared to show a valid photo ID and proof of vehicle ownership (like a registration or title) to the tow truck driver. This is a legal requirement to prevent theft.
• Manual Override for Neutral: Most automatic cars have a manual shift release near the gear shifter that allows the car to be put into neutral without a key, but this should ideally be handled by a professional.

Final Thoughts on Towing a Car Without Keys

Losing your keys and having an immobile vehicle is a frustrating experience, but knowing your options brings peace of mind. The most important takeaway is that this is a solvable problem. While it’s technically complex, for a certified tow truck operator, it’s just another day at the office. Your role is not to figure out the mechanics of a parking pawl or a steering lock, but to make one smart decision: calling the right professional.

By communicating clearly that you don’t have the keys and asking for a flatbed service, you are taking the best possible step to protect your vehicle from damage. The small additional cost for a no-key tow is an investment in preventing thousands of dollars in potential transmission or drivetrain repairs. Trust the experts, have your proof of ownership ready, and let them handle the heavy lifting.