If you’ve ever needed to haul a trailer or a boat, or even just mount a bike rack, you’ve probably considered getting a tow bar. They’re one of those car accessories that seem straightforward at first glance, but once you look at the details, there’s quite a bit to consider.
From pricing and installation to towing capacity and legal requirements, this guide covers everything a driver needs to make a confident (and safe) decision.
What Is a Tow Bar and What Is It Used For?
A tow bar is a device fitted to the rear of your car that allows it to tow a trailer, caravan, horsebox, boat trailer, or other load. It’s also widely used as a mounting point for accessories such as tow ball-mounted bike carriers and cargo platforms, making it a handy upgrade even for drivers who don’t tow frequently.
The tow bar consists of two parts: the coupling head (usually a tow ball) and the cross-member or hitch bar that attaches to the vehicle’s chassis. It might also include a detachable neck mechanism. There’s also the electrical connection: a 7-pin or 13-pin socket that links the towing vehicle’s lighting system to the trailer. Depending on the tow bar price, some might include additional components.
Types of Tow Bars
Before you start looking at tow bar for sale listings, you first need to know what kind of tow bar you need. The right one depends on your vehicle, how often you’ll tow, and whether you want the tow bar visible when not in use (and how much you want to spend).
Fixed tow bars
These are permanently attached and always visible on the vehicle. Fixed tow bars are durable and cost-effective, and will work great for drivers who tow regularly. The downside is that the tow ball protrudes even when not in use, which some drivers find unsightly and which can be a minor trip hazard in tight parking situations.
Detachable tow bars
Detachable tow bars feature a neck and tow ball that can be removed when not towing, leaving only a small receiver housing attached to the vehicle. They look neater and don’t interfere with parking sensors as much. They’re the most popular choice on modern passenger cars. The detachable mechanism comes in two main styles: swan neck (a curved, one-piece neck) and flange/bolt-on (where the ball is bolted onto the neck and can be replaced separately).
Retractable (automatic) tow bars
This is the premium option. The entire assembly retracts into a housing beneath the bumper at the push of a button, leaving the rear of the car completely unaltered in appearance. These are found on higher-end vehicles and cost more, but they’re the most convenient option available.
The total tow bar price will vary based on your car’s model and the tow bar type. Regardless of your preference, remember to match the bar’s rated capacity to your car’s maximum towing limit. It’s a critical safety step that prevents catastrophic frame or transmission damage when towing.
Tow Bar Price: What to Expect
For a basic fixed tow bar on a common family car, parts alone typically cost between £100 and £200. Detachable models sit in the £200-£450 range for hardware. Retractable systems can cost £800-£1,200 for the unit alone. These figures are for the tow bar component itself; installation is usually separate.
Professional fitting by a garage or specialist adds labour costs, which can range from £60 to £200 or more. The exact price depends on the job’s complexity and your vehicle. On newer cars, the rear bumper often needs to be partially removed to mount the chassis bracket properly, and integrating the electrics (particularly on vehicles with CANbus systems) can require additional wiring kits.
If you’re comparing tow bar prices across suppliers, make sure you’re comparing like for like: some listings include electrics and fitting, while others quote for the bar alone. The total cost of a detachable tow bar, professionally fitted with a 13-pin socket, on a mid-range family SUV typically falls in the £350-£600 range, all-in.
Where to Find a Tow Bar for Sale
Specialist tow bar retailers (both online and physical) offer the widest range, often with vehicle-specific fitment tools on their websites. Brands like Westfalia, Brink, and Witter are well-regarded and widely available. They typically stock both the tow bar assembly and the matching electrical kit for your specific vehicle.
Motor factors and auto parts stores stock popular models and can often order less common ones. They’re a good option if you prefer to buy in person and get advice face-to-face.
Main dealers and franchised garages can supply and fit manufacturer-approved tow bars, which is worth considering if your car is under warranty or lease, as some leasing agreements specify approved accessories.
Online marketplaces offer competitive pricing, but exercise caution: always confirm the part is vehicle-specific and from a reputable seller. Tow bars are safety-critical components, and a poorly fitting or substandard unit can be dangerous.
If you’re looking for a used tow bar, consider using a used car parts price comparison tool like PartHunt24. These websites aggregate the best deals available at the time, so you don’t have to spend hours looking for them yourself on several different sites.
Towing Capacity and Legal Considerations
Before you decide on a tow bar, you need to know your vehicle’s towing capacity. It is listed in the owner’s manual or on the car’s VIN plate (located on the door frame or the B pillar). There are two figures to look out for: the braked towing capacity (for trailers with their own brakes) and the unbraked towing capacity (for lighter loads without brakes). Never exceed these limits.
If you can’t find these numbers, you can also calculate your maximum towing capacity by subtracting the gross vehicle weight from the gross train weight. Alternatively, multiply your kerbweight by 0.85. Bear in mind that fitting a tow bar can affect your vehicle’s parking sensors, rear camera, and crash avoidance systems.
Tow Bar Installation: DIY or Professional?
Some drivers with mechanical experience fit tow bars themselves, particularly fixed units on older vehicles with simpler electrical systems. Kits for popular vehicles come with detailed instructions and all necessary hardware. However, for modern cars, professional installation is strongly recommended.
An incorrectly fitted tow bar can damage your vehicle, void your warranty, or create a dangerous situation on the road. If the tow ball height is wrong, the trailer won’t sit level. If the electrical connection is faulty, other road users won’t see your braking or turning signals. It is not worth the risk.
Once fitted, a tow bar needs relatively little maintenance, but it shouldn’t be completely ignored.
Maintenance Tips for Your Tow Bar
Clean the tow ball regularly and apply a light coat of grease to prevent corrosion and for smooth coupling. Check the head for wear, and inspect the chassis mounting points periodically for rust. Especially if you live in an area where roads are salted in winter. For detachable units, keep the locking mechanism clean and lightly lubricated so it operates smoothly. Check that the lights and brakes are working correctly each time before towing.
If you notice any cracking or unusual wear on any part of the assembly, have it inspected before towing. A tow bar works under significant dynamic load and stress, and any structural damage should be taken seriously.
Summary
A tow bar is a genuinely useful addition to any car, whether you tow regularly or just want the flexibility to do so. Understanding the different types. Knowing what a realistic tow bar price looks like. Finding a reputable tow bar for sale from a trusted supplier. And having it properly installed will ensure you get the full benefit safely.
Do your research, buy type-approved equipment, and don’t underestimate the value of professional fitting. Towing can be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. Your safety and the safety of others on the road depend on it.