Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

How do you move a car without wheels?

I parked my car in the city after my girlfriend warned me not to leave it there overnight. The following day, all four tires were gone. How can I move a car without wheels before she wakes up? I will never live this down.

avatar
Shannon Martin · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Yikes, I am sorry that happened! The best course of action is to call for a tow and explain the situation. They can help, but it will take a little longer to resolve, so your girlfriend might still find out!
A car can be moved without wheels, but it can be dangerous—even for a professional. If you can find a tow company with a trailer, they may be able to pull it with a winch onto a trailer and then tow it to your desired destination.
Note that using a winch is an involved process for a tow company, and it will probably cost you a pretty penny.
I suggest calling a tire company and asking them to tow your car to their facility since you will need to buy four new tires anyway. They can deliver two new tires and put them on your vehicle before towing it back to the shop.
This will be a more traditional tow and won’t cost as much. Also, since you will be paying for tires and an alignment, you might get a discount or even a free tow!
Make sure to keep your receipts and contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. If you are carrying
comprehensive coverage
, the theft of your tires will be a covered claim. Therefore, you should receive compensation for the tires and the towing cost minus your comprehensive deductible.
Once all the excitement has calmed down, take a moment to download the
Jerry
app and purchase their roadside assistance plan. Jerry’s membership provides you with industry-leading roadside assistance, including benefits like towing, lockout service, and a mechanics hotline for under $5 a month.
View full answer 
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings