Where is the car tow hook located?
3 Answers
The car tow hook is located at the lower part of the bumper. The position is marked in the vehicle user manual, usually covered by a round or square cap. If it's hard to open, it might be due to long-term disuse, making it tight. Below is some related information about tow hooks: Introduction to tow hooks: A tow hook, also known as a tow ball, can be used to tow small trailers or towable caravans after installation. It can also be equipped with rear-mounted bicycle racks or luggage carriers. Adding these accessories can increase the vehicle's cargo space, making it very convenient for self-driving trips when loading luggage or transporting large items. Precautions for using tow hooks: For any additionally installed tow hooks, make sure to clarify whether they are legal to avoid being fined.
In my over ten years of driving experience, I've frequently helped friends with towing or been towed myself. The tow hook location is typically near the front or rear bumper of the vehicle. My own SUV has the tow hook directly exposed beneath the rear bumper, making it very visible and easy to install. For sedans or some compact cars, there might be a small plastic cover on the front bumper that needs to be pried open to reveal the hidden hook. I always check the vehicle manual first because locations can vary between brands and models - some imported cars even design the hook on the side of the chassis. After locating it, the crucial step is ensuring the hook is securely fastened to prevent dangerous loosening during towing. Once I forgot to check and nearly had an accident on the highway, so now I always test it beforehand as a safety habit.
I just bought a car not long ago, and when I needed to use the tow hook for the first time, I couldn't find it no matter how much I searched under the car. Later, I discovered it was hidden behind the rear bumper—my compact car had a small circular cover in the front that popped open with a gentle pry. Watching online tutorial videos, those young bloggers explained it clearly: the location varies by vehicle. SUVs or pickup trucks usually have it exposed at the lower rear, while compact cars require checking hidden spots on the bumper. My friend owns an older car where the hook is actually at the front of the chassis, making it quite troublesome for him to use. So, I recommend new car owners first explore their specific model's features—download a manual app to check the location beforehand to avoid wasting time seeking help outside.
