Getting the right towbar for your vehicle is crucial in boosting safety on the road. Whether you want to tow a caravan for your camping trips or a utility trailer for your business, you need the right equipment to connect the two vehicles. This will not only increase stability, but it will also reduce accidents and enhance the effectiveness of your tow jobs. Therefore, as you look for the perfect towbar, consider these essential factors.

Type of Towbar

Towbars come in various types and styles. These include flange, swan neck, detachable and fixed towbars. To choose the best one, consider the functionality, features and personal preference. Here are a few questions to guide you:

• Does the towbar have an unobtrusive appearance, or are the electrics visible when the equipment is attached to the car?
• Will the towbar be fixed to the vehicle, or can you remove it when not in use?
• Can you fit a bumper shield?
• Is the equipment compatible with your choice of accessories and towing couplings?

Answering these questions based on your preference will help you narrow down your choices. For example, if you want a detachable towbar with a seamless look, you'll steer clear of the flange design as its bolts and components are visible after installation. An expert can help you look through the designs in the market and find one suitable for your vehicle.

Towing Weight Capacity

Just like every car has a towing capacity, towbars have a maximum weight they can tow as well. As such, they are classified into three weight classes: classes two, three, and four. Class-two towbars have a weight rating of 1200kg, while class-three ones can tow up to 1600kg. Class-four towbars are heavy-duty equipment with a weight rating of 3500kg. 

If you're towing a small box trailer, you'll need a class-two towbar. On the other hand, a caravan would require a level-four towbar. As you buy, pay attention to the towing vehicle's weight rating as well.

OEM vs. Aftermarket Towbars

There are original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket towbars. OEM towbars are made by vehicle manufacturers and are perfectly compatible with specific car models. However, they tend to be costly. Aftermarket towbars are cheaper than OEM ones, and you can find one that's compatible with your car. If you are on a budget, an aftermarket one will still get the work done.

Once you've bought your towbar, find an automotive expert to install it for you. You can find mobile installation services for extra convenience. The last thing you want is to gamble with DIY installations as they can lead to accidents if the towed vehicle disconnects from the towbar.