Can a Screw-In Towing Eye Pull a Stuck Car Free?

Found the screw-in towing eye in your tool kit? Do not assume it can safely pull a stuck car free.

A removable metal eye in the vehicle’s tool kit can look like an obvious place to attach a rope. But its intended use comes from the manufacturer’s instructions, not its appearance. As you prepare your car for fall and winter roadside problems, locate those instructions along with the equipment.

For example, Volvo’s recovery guidance for the 2019 V60 says its towing eye is intended for road towing, not freeing a stuck car or pulling it from a ditch. Volvo directs drivers to a recovery service for that situation. This is a vehicle-specific example; it is not permission to tow another model by the same method.

A car that will not start on level pavement is a different request from one sunk into soft ground or resting on an obstruction. Having the towing eye available does not settle which equipment or approach is suitable.

When you call Rick’s, describe what happened and what is preventing movement. Report mud, a curb, a slope, locked wheels or visible damage. Our roadside-assistance service includes assessment of suitable light-duty recovery; the actual vehicle and access determine whether the job fits.

Do not ask another driver to pull using the eye just because it screws into the bumper mounting. Leave attachment selection and the recovery plan to an operator following the vehicle’s requirements.

Tell us whether you have the original towing eye and whether its location is accessible. Mention if it is missing, bent, already installed or was used during a previous pulling attempt. You do not need to remove bumper covers or crawl underneath the car before calling.

Have the year, make, model and drivetrain ready. Also tell us whether the keys are available, the wheels roll and the steering works. If you can access your owner’s manual, keep the towing and recovery section available for the assessment.