How to Move a Car Without Starting the Engine
Method 1: Push the Car
The most straightforward way to move a car without starting the engine is to push it. This method requires at least two people, one to push and one to steer. To push the car:
- Put the car in neutral.
- Have one person get behind the car and push it, while the other person steers.
- If the car is on a hill, use chocks to prevent it from rolling while you’re pushing it.
Pushing a car can be difficult, especially if it’s a large or heavy car. It’s also important to be careful not to damage the car or yourself while pushing it.
Method 2: Use a Tow Dolly
A tow dolly is a trailer that you can use to tow a car with another vehicle. Tow dollies have two wheels that support the front of the towed car, while the rear wheels of the towed car are left on the ground. To use a tow dolly:
- Hook the tow dolly to the towing vehicle.
- Drive the towing vehicle forward until the tow dolly is under the front of the towed car.
- Secure the towed car to the tow dolly using the chains or straps that came with the tow dolly.
- Drive the towing vehicle forward to move the towed car.
Tow dollies are a good option for moving cars that are not drivable. They’re also relatively easy to use, and they can be rented from most auto parts stores.
Method 3: Use a Car Trailer
A car trailer is a trailer that you can use to transport a car. Car trailers have four wheels, and they can be towed by a variety of vehicles. To use a car trailer:
- Hook the car trailer to the towing vehicle.
- Drive the towing vehicle forward until the car trailer is under the car.
- Load the car onto the car trailer, using the ramps that came with the car trailer.
- Secure the car to the car trailer using the chains or straps that came with the car trailer.
- Drive the towing vehicle forward to move the car.
Car trailers are a good option for moving cars that are not drivable or that are too large to be towed with a tow dolly. They’re also more expensive than tow dollies, and they can be more difficult to use.
Method 4: Use a Winch
A winch is a device that can be used to pull or lift heavy objects. You can use a winch to move a car by attaching it to the car and then pulling the car with the winch. To use a winch to move a car:
- Attach the winch to the car.
- Connect the winch to a power source, such as a battery.
- Operate the winch to pull the car.
Winches are a good option for moving cars that are stuck in mud, snow, or sand. They’re also a good option for moving cars that are not drivable or that are too large to be towed with a tow dolly or a car trailer.
Conclusion
There are a number of ways to move a car without starting the engine. The best method for you will depend on the specific situation. If the car is not drivable, you will need to use a tow dolly, a car trailer, or a winch. If the car is drivable, you can push it or use a tow dolly.