Towing a car behind an RV or truck requires the right equipment. After researching manufacturer specifications, industry safety standards, and aggregated owner feedback, we compared the top tow dollies on the market. Our evaluation focuses on capacity, stability, ease of use, and value. Here are our picks for the best tow dollies for cars.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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Acme Trailer Tow Dolly 3500 lb Best Overall 3500 lb capacity, 12 inch wheels, adjustable tie-downs |
9.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Roadmaster Tow Dolly 5000 Premium Pick 5000 lb capacity, 15 inch wheels, hydraulic surge brakes |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Stehl Tow Dolly 3000 Best Value 3000 lb capacity, 10 inch wheels, manual tie-downs |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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KarKaddy Tow Dolly 4000 Compact Choice 4000 lb capacity, 12 inch wheels, folding design |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Curt Manufacturing Tow Dolly 3500 Durable Build 3500 lb capacity, 13 inch wheels, surge brakes |
8.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Towing Pro Tow Dolly 2500 Light Duty 2500 lb capacity, 10 inch wheels, no brakes |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Mopar Tow Dolly 3500 OEM Quality 3500 lb capacity, 12 inch wheels, surge brakes |
7.5 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Acme Trailer Tow Dolly 3500 lb: Best Overall
In our evaluation, the Acme Trailer Tow Dolly stands out for its balance of capacity and build quality. With a 3500 lb rating and surge brakes, it handles most compact and mid-size cars reliably. Owner feedback highlights the easy loading ramp and secure tie-down system. The frame is welded steel with a corrosion-resistant finish, promising long-term durability.
However, the dolly is heavy (350 lbs) and may be difficult to maneuver without a trailer hitch. Some owners note that the LED lights can be finicky in wet weather. Skip this if you need a lighter, manual-crank model or if your car exceeds 3500 lbs.
- Rated for cars up to 3500 lbs with surge brakes
- Foldable design for compact storage
- Includes safety chains and LED lights
Pros: Sturdy steel frame with powder coat finish; Smooth towing with low deck height
Cons: Heavy at 350 lbs empty
2. Roadmaster Tow Dolly 5000: Premium Pick
The Roadmaster Tow Dolly 5000 is built for heavier vehicles. With a 5000 lb capacity and hydraulic surge brakes, it provides confident stopping power. We researched owner feedback and found high marks for stability at highway speeds. The galvanized frame resists rust, and the 15 inch wheels reduce tire wear.
That said, this dolly is overkill for compact cars and its weight (450 lbs) makes it a chore to store. The price is also significantly higher than most. Skip this if you tow a lightweight car or don’t need the extra capacity.
- High capacity for larger cars and SUVs
- Self-adjusting surge brakes for safety
- All-steel construction with galvanized finish
Pros: Excellent braking performance; Rugged build handles rough roads
Cons: Expensive and heavy (450 lbs)
3. Stehl Tow Dolly 3000: Best Value
The Stehl Tow Dolly 3000 is our value pick. It offers a 3000 lb capacity at a lower cost than many competitors. At 250 lbs, it is lighter and easier to handle. Owner feedback often praises its simplicity and reliability for short-distance towing.
However, it lacks brakes, which is a safety concern for heavier loads or steep grades. The 10 inch wheels are adequate but can lead to instability at highway speeds. Skip this if you tow frequently or on long trips; invest in a braked dolly instead.
- Affordable price point for budget buyers
- Lightweight at 250 lbs
- Folding tongue for easier storage
Pros: Good value for occasional use; Easy to tow when empty
Cons: No brakes included; Small wheels may cause sway at high speed
4. KarKaddy Tow Dolly 4000: Compact Choice
The KarKaddy Tow Dolly 4000 is designed for those with limited storage space. When folded, it stands only 24 inches tall, making it easy to store against a wall. We compared its specs and found it suitable for cars up to 4000 lbs. The included wheel straps secure the vehicle quickly.
On the downside, some owner reviews mention frame flex when towing near the capacity limit. Brakes are not standard, which is a drawback for safety. Skip this if you plan to tow heavy vehicles regularly or if you need integrated brakes.
- Folds to 24 inches tall for vertical storage
- Includes adjustable wheel straps
- Comes with safety chains and wiring harness
Pros: Very compact storage footprint; Easy to assemble and adjust
Cons: Frame flex reported under heavy loads; Brakes are optional add-on
5. Curt Manufacturing Tow Dolly 3500: Durable Build
Curt Manufacturing is known for rugged towing gear, and this dolly is no exception. With a 3500 lb capacity and 13 inch wheels, it offers a good balance of size and capability. The e-coat primer and powder top coat provide excellent corrosion resistance. Owner feedback often highlights its stable towing experience.
However, the dolly is heavy at 400 lbs, making it a challenge to move without a vehicle attached. Some users also note that the instructions could be clearer. Skip this if you prioritize lightweight design or if you’re on a tight budget.
- Heavy-duty steel frame with e-coat primer
- Surge brakes for smooth stopping
- Adjustable tire cradles
Pros: Very solid construction; Brakes work well
Cons: Heavy (400 lbs) and hard to maneuver; Price is mid-range but quality is high
6. Towing Pro Tow Dolly 2500: Light Duty
The Towing Pro Tow Dolly 2500 is designed for lightweight vehicles like smart cars or classic minis. At 180 lbs, it is the lightest dolly we evaluated, making it easy to move by hand. The price is also among the lowest, appealing to budget-conscious buyers.
However, its 2500 lb capacity severely limits what you can tow, and the lack of brakes makes it unsafe for anything beyond flat, short-distance towing. Owner feedback confirms that it works well for its intended niche but is not a general-purpose dolly. Skip this if your car weighs over 2500 lbs or if you need to tow on highways.
- Lowest weight at 180 lbs
- Compact design for small cars
- Easy to store in garage
Pros: Very affordable; Lightweight and portable
Cons: Limited to very small cars; No brakes, not suitable for hills
7. Mopar Tow Dolly 3500: OEM Quality
The Mopar Tow Dolly 3500 is an official accessory for certain Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles. We researched its specs and found it offers surge brakes and a 3500 lb capacity. The plug-and-play wiring is convenient for owners of compatible tow vehicles.
Nevertheless, the price is high compared to aftermarket alternatives with similar specs. Also, it may not fit non-Mopar vehicles without modifications. Owner feedback is mixed on value. Skip this unless you have a compatible vehicle and prioritize OEM integration over cost.
- OEM accessory for select vehicles
- Integrated wiring harness for plug-and-play
- Matte black powder coat finish
Pros: Perfect fit for compatible vehicles; Good build quality
Cons: Very expensive for the capacity; Limited availability and compatibility
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tow dolly do I need for my car?
Check your car’s curb weight and ensure the dolly’s capacity exceeds it by at least 20%. Most compact cars need a 3000-3500 lb dolly, while larger sedans and SUVs may require 5000 lb. Always verify the dolly’s wheel size and tie-down system compatibility with your car’s wheels.
Do I need a tow dolly with brakes?
If you tow frequently, on highways, or in hilly terrain, brakes are strongly recommended for safety. Surge brakes are common and require no wiring. Many states require brakes for trailers over 3000 lbs. Check local laws.
Can I tow a front-wheel-drive car on a tow dolly?
Yes, front-wheel-drive cars are typically towed with the drive wheels (front) off the ground. Most tow dollies are designed for this. Rear-wheel-drive cars can be towed with rear wheels off the ground, but always check your vehicle’s owner manual for towing recommendations.
How do I secure my car to a tow dolly?
Drive the car onto the dolly so the wheels sit in the cradles. Use the provided tie-down straps to secure the wheels to the dolly frame. Attach safety chains from the dolly to your tow vehicle. Double-check all connections before driving.
What is the maximum speed when towing a car on a dolly?
Manufacturers typically recommend not exceeding 55-65 mph. Towing at higher speeds increases the risk of sway and tire failure. Always follow the dolly’s speed rating and your tow vehicle’s recommendations.
Our Verdict
After comparing specs, safety, and owner feedback, the Acme Trailer Tow Dolly 3500 lb is our top pick for its reliable performance and value. For heavier vehicles, the Roadmaster Tow Dolly 5000 is a premium choice with excellent brakes. The Stehl Tow Dolly 3000 offers the best value for occasional, light-duty towing.
