5 Things You Should Know Before Buying a UTE Towbar

A towbar is a UTE accessory attached to the rear of a vehicle’s chassis to assist with towing a trailer or another vehicle. It comes in handy when you need to connect a trailer to your 4WD or UTE, or when your vehicle needs to be towed to a workshop.

Towbars are built with bolts and components that allow the trailer to swivel and articulate safely. The method of attaching a towbar varies depending on the type of towbar and the vehicle it is being fitted to.

Before you start shopping for a towbar, there are several important factors you should consider. Here are five things you should know about UTE towbars.

1. Multiple Types of Towbars

Towbars are available in different types, and each has its own towing capacity and construction.

For example, some towbars can tow up to 1.6 tonnes, making them suitable for small to medium-sized cars and trailers. Other heavy-duty towbars can handle medium to large vehicles or trailers weighing up to 7.7 tonnes.

Towbars are generally divided into different classes, from Class 1 through to Class 5, depending on their towing capacity and the weight of the trailer or vehicle they are designed to tow.

Choosing the right class is essential to ensure your towbar can safely handle your intended towing requirements.

2. Towbars Are Vehicle Specific

A towbar isn't just a mechanical component. It also includes an electrical component known as towbar electrics or a towbar wiring kit.

Towbar electrics are often vehicle-specific. This means that a wiring kit suitable for one UTE may not necessarily work correctly with another vehicle.

Dedicated wiring kits are becoming increasingly popular because each kit is designed specifically for a particular vehicle. This allows the wiring system to interface with the vehicle's electrical system as intended by the manufacturer.

When purchasing a towbar, make sure you choose the correct electrical kit for your specific make and model.

3. Understanding CAN-Bus

CAN-Bus is another important consideration when shopping for a towbar, particularly with modern vehicles.

Traditional bypass wiring kits can interfere with various vehicle sensors and electronic systems, including stability control, engine and transmission management, steering systems and other safety features.

For this reason, selecting the correct trailer wiring harness is crucial. Modern trailer harnesses are designed to work with the vehicle's electronic systems and help minimise the risk of interference.

Always ensure the towbar and wiring system you choose are compatible with your vehicle's CAN-Bus system.

4. Check the Warranty

Towbars can experience wear and tear during regular towing. Damage can also occur through incorrect installation, overloading or improper use.

That's why it's important to check the warranty period before purchasing a towbar. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and help protect you from unexpected repair or replacement costs.

Before making your purchase, find out what the warranty covers, how long it lasts and whether there are any conditions that could affect its validity.

5. Detachable or Fixed Towbar?

When choosing a towbar, you may have the option of selecting between a detachable or fixed towbar.

A detachable towbar can be attached and removed according to your needs. It allows you to dismount the towbar when it isn't required without significantly affecting the appearance of your UTE.

Some people assume that fixed towbars are stronger and more reliable than detachable models. However, a quality detachable towbar can offer comparable strength and reliability when correctly fitted and used within its rated capacity.

Some detachable systems also feature indicators that show whether the towbar is correctly secured, providing an additional level of convenience and reassurance.

Choose the Right UTE Towbar

Choosing the right towbar involves more than simply selecting one based on appearance or price. You need to consider towing capacity, vehicle compatibility, electrical requirements, CAN-Bus compatibility, warranty coverage and whether a fixed or detachable system best suits your needs.

The UTE Shop, based on the Sunshine Coast, is one of the leading suppliers of UTE accessories, including towbars, nudge bars, canopies and alloy UTE trays. Catering to customers Australia-wide, The UTE Shop works with several well-known brands, making it easier to find the right accessories for your UTE and towing requirements.