When your vehicle needs a tow, not all tow trucks are created equal. The type of towing your car requires depends on its drivetrain, condition, and the situation. IC Roadside & Key operates both flatbed and wheel-lift tow trucks throughout Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, and Eastern Iowa. If you need a tow right now, call (319) 963-2108 and we will send the right truck for your vehicle.
What Is Flatbed Towing?
A flatbed tow truck has a large, flat platform that tilts to the ground. Your vehicle is loaded onto the bed using a winch, and all four wheels ride on the platform during transport. The vehicle never touches the road.
When You Need a Flatbed
- All-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles — Towing these with wheels on the ground can damage the drivetrain. Many Subarus, Audis, and trucks around the Iowa City area require flatbed towing.
- Lowered or modified vehicles — Wheel-lift towing can scrape body kits, spoilers, and low bumpers.
- Accident recovery — If wheels are damaged or the vehicle cannot roll freely, a flatbed is the safest option.
- Long-distance tows — For trips from Iowa City to Des Moines or beyond, a flatbed reduces wear and provides more security.
- Luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles — Flatbed eliminates the risk of road debris or additional mechanical stress.
What Is Wheel-Lift Towing?
A wheel-lift tow truck uses a metal yoke that slides under the front or rear wheels, then hydraulically lifts that end off the ground. The vehicle rolls on its remaining two wheels during transport.
When Wheel-Lift Works Well
- Front-wheel drive vehicles — Lifting the front (drive) wheels off the ground is safe for most FWD cars.
- Rear-wheel drive vehicles — The rear wheels are lifted instead.
- Short-distance tows — For quick trips across Iowa City or to a nearby shop, wheel-lift is efficient and affordable.
- Tight spaces — Wheel-lift trucks are more maneuverable in parking garages, narrow streets, and apartment complexes common in the university area.
Which Should You Choose?
If you are unsure, call IC Roadside & Key at (319) 963-2108 and tell us your vehicle's year, make, model, and the situation. We will recommend the right option. As a general rule, when in doubt, go with a flatbed. It is the safest choice for any vehicle.
Cost Differences
Flatbed towing typically costs slightly more than wheel-lift due to the additional equipment and loading time. However, the price difference is modest compared to the potential cost of drivetrain damage from using the wrong method. We provide upfront pricing with no hidden fees.
Towing Service Across Eastern Iowa
IC Roadside & Key provides both flatbed and wheel-lift towing 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We serve Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, Coralville, North Liberty, Solon, Tiffin, and all of Johnson and Linn counties. Call (319) 963-2108 for fast, reliable towing whenever you need it.