Do Repo Men Use Tow Trucks?

Yes. Repossession agents commonly use tow trucks—especially self-loader/wheel-lift and flatbed carriers—to remove vehicles quickly and safely when borrowers default. Depending on access, keys, and legal constraints, agents may also drive a car away, but tow trucks remain the industry standard for most involuntary repossessions in the United States and many other countries.

How Vehicle Repossession Typically Works

When a borrower falls behind on payments, most U.S. states allow lenders to use “self-help” repossession under Article 9 of the Uniform Commercial Code, so long as the vehicle is taken without a breach of the peace. Lenders hire licensed recovery agencies that locate vehicles using account data, skip-tracing, and increasingly, license plate recognition (LPR) cameras mounted on spotter cars or trucks. Once the car is located and accessible, agents will either tow it or, if lawful and feasible, drive it away. Processes and notice requirements vary by state and by contract terms, and some jurisdictions impose additional restrictions or require judicial action.

Tools and Vehicles Used by Repossession Agents

Agents rely on specialized equipment to recover vehicles safely and to minimize damage and confrontation. Below are the most common tools and vehicles used in the industry and why they matter.

• Self-loader/wheel-lift tow truck: A hydraulically operated “stinger” slides under the drive wheels to lift and pull within seconds, enabling quick, low-profile pickups.
• Flatbed (rollback) carrier: Preferred for all-wheel-drive (AWD), low-clearance, luxury, and electric vehicles (EVs); reduces drivetrain and body damage risk.
• Dollies and go-jacks: Allow agents to move cars that are locked in park or blocked in, and to tow AWD vehicles without spinning drive wheels.
• Low-profile “sneaker” lifts: Compact, stealthy wheel-lifts that fit under vehicles in tight spaces such as apartment lots.
• Spotter vehicles with LPR cameras: Scan plates to match against lender placements, improving location accuracy and safety.
• Key tools and programming gear: With lender authorization, agents may use spare keys, key-cutting, or immobilizer programming to enable a drive-away when legal and safe.
• Winches, skates, and straps: For non-running vehicles or tight angles where rolling or pulling is required.
• Telematics/GPS data (where lawful): Some loans include borrower-consented trackers; use is governed by contract terms and state privacy laws.

Tow trucks dominate because they reduce the time on scene and the risk of confrontation or damage. Other tools support safe loading, compliance with manufacturer towing guidance, and operations in constrained urban environments.

When They Tow vs. When They Drive the Car Away

Agents choose between towing and driving based on access, risk, and the vehicle itself. If a car is parked in the open, keys are available, and driving is permitted by law and policy, a drive-away can be faster. In many real-world situations—locked transmissions, AWD/EV requirements, tight parking, bystanders, or a narrow time window—a tow is safer and more predictable. Agents also consider manufacturer guidance (for example, EV transport modes) to avoid damage and liability.

Special Considerations for EVs and AWD Vehicles

EVs and AWD vehicles typically require flatbed transport or the use of dollies to keep all driven wheels off the ground. Many EVs have a transport or “tow” mode to disengage parking pawls and enable winching. Failing to follow OEM procedures can damage drivetrains or battery systems, so reputable agencies train operators and choose equipment accordingly.

Legal Limits and Consumer Rights

While lenders can recover collateral after default, the process is constrained by consumer protection laws, police protocols, and contract terms. The following points summarize key boundaries and rights; specifics vary by state and country.

• No breach of the peace: Agents cannot use or threaten force, break locks, or provoke confrontation. Continuing amid violence or property damage risks legal liability.
• Access limits: Vehicles may be taken from public areas or open driveways, but entering a closed garage or locked, fenced property without permission is generally unlawful.
• Police role: Officers may keep the peace but should not assist in taking the car or threaten arrest over a civil debt dispute.
• Active-duty military protections: Under the U.S. Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), repossession generally requires a court order if the obligation predates active service.
• Personal property: Your non-installed personal items must be returned; agencies must provide a way to claim them. The car itself is collateral, but your belongings are not.
• Notices and sale: After repossession, lenders typically must send a notice of intent to sell and provide time to redeem. Sales must be “commercially reasonable.”
• Redeem or reinstate: Many states allow redemption by paying the balance plus fees before sale; some permit reinstatement by curing the default and paying costs.
• Deficiency balance: If auction proceeds don’t cover the loan and costs, lenders may pursue the deficiency, subject to state law and the reasonableness of the sale.
• Licensing and bonding: Many states require recovery agencies to be licensed, insured, and bonded; consumers can verify status with state regulators.

These rules aim to balance lenders’ rights to collateral with borrowers’ safety and due process. If something seems off—violence, property damage, or missing notices—seek legal advice promptly.

What to Do If You Think a Repo Is Imminent

If you’re behind on payments or have received warnings, acting early can reduce costs and stress. Consider these steps to protect yourself and your credit position.

1. Contact your lender immediately to ask about reinstatement, extensions, or a payment plan in writing.
2. Review your contract and state laws to understand cure periods, fees, and rights to redeem or reinstate.
3. Remove personal items and essential documents from the vehicle now.
4. Avoid confrontation; if an agent arrives, stay calm, record the interaction if lawful, and request their company and case details.
5. Document everything: dates, names, photos, and any damage.
6. Consider voluntary surrender to reduce towing and storage fees if you cannot reinstate; get terms in writing.
7. After a repo, promptly arrange retrieval of personal items and ask for the sale notice and payoff/fee breakdown.
8. Consult a consumer attorney or legal aid if you suspect an illegal repo or unfair fees.
9. Update your insurer about the status; cancel add-on coverages you no longer need after disposition.

Proactive communication and documentation can limit costs, preserve rights, and sometimes prevent repossession altogether.

Key Takeaways

Repossession agents do use tow trucks—most notably self-loaders and flatbeds—because they enable fast, safer recoveries and compliance with modern vehicle requirements. While agents may drive a vehicle away when lawful and practical, towing is the default for many situations. The process is bounded by strict “no breach of peace” rules, access limits, and consumer rights to notice, redemption, and retrieval of personal belongings. If you’re at risk, engage your lender early and know your state-specific protections.

How much do repossession guys get for a tow?

The average repo man charges banks about $200 per deal and pre-owned car suppliers about $100. The amount you charge to your clients is determined by qualities like: The size and weight of the vehicle. Your pricing structure, such as if you charge a flat rate or by the mile.

Where do tow trucks take repossessed cars?

Most towing companies have their own storage lots where they can bring cars, trucks, motorcycles or even boats, but sometimes they can deliver the vehicle directly to the client. The repo man also has to notify the local police that repossession took place.

How to outsmart the repo man?

To avoid car repossession, proactively negotiate with your lender for a loan modification, refinance, or payment deferment, or consider bankruptcy for a more permanent solution. Repossession agents are prohibited from using force, breaking into private property, or threatening you. If a repossession is in progress, you can’t legally stop it, but you can report illegal actions, such as a breach of the peace, to the police. 
Before Repossession (Preventative Measures)

• Communicate with your lender: Opens in new tabContact your lender immediately to explain your financial hardship and explore options like a loan modification, deferment, or forbearance to temporarily suspend payments. 
• Refinance your loan: Opens in new tabA lower interest rate could make your payments more manageable and help prevent default. 
• Make a partial payment: Opens in new tabEven a partial payment can sometimes buy you extra time, especially if your lender accepts it. 
• Consider bankruptcy: Opens in new tabFiling for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy can stop the repossession process entirely by preventing creditors from making collection attempts. 
• Sell the car: Opens in new tabIf you sell the car and use the proceeds to pay off the loan, you can avoid repossession and potentially a negative credit impact. 

If Repossession is in Progress (What to Do)

• Do not obstruct the repo agent: While it can be frustrating, do not physically interfere with the repo agent trying to take your car. 
• Don’t engage in illegal tactics: Removing license plates, attempting to hide the vehicle, or covering your VIN may be considered unethical or illegal and should be avoided. 
• Report any illegal actions: Repo agents cannot breach the peace, which includes breaking into your locked garage, using force, or making threats. If these actions occur, call the police and record the incident, but do not assault the agent, according to www.bankruptcy-divorce.com. 
• Consult a consumer law attorney: Seek legal advice from a professional to understand your rights and any potential remedies for an illegal repossession, notes Quora. 

Is a repo truck a tow truck?

Crew Cab Repo Tow Trucks
Trucks with a crew cab are also much heavier and feature a long wheelbase, making them ideal for safe towing and repossession work. If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line repo tow truck that can handle some of the heaviest vehicles, then a crew cab repo truck is likely best for you.