Not one or two, but almost every towing service provider asks for the car keys when they come for towing. And this is the biggest confusion for car owners. They are confused about whether to give the keys or not. Many of them feel uncomfortable and unsafe giving away the keys. They have a fear that the towers will run away with the car because they are strangers like others. 

There is nothing wrong in denying the request of the towing service providers related to car keys. It’s your car and you have the right to make any decision related to it. But, before you refuse the request of the towers, you should know and understand the reason for asking. Sometimes, it’s the situation or the condition of the car that compels the towers to ask for the keys. So, check it out before making any decision. 

A few reasons why a tow truck driver asks for the car keys 

Reason number 1: The towers need the car keys to check the car and provide an estimated cost for the service. Sometimes, the towing service providers are not just called for towing; they are called for on-spot repairing as well. To know the problems and determine the cost, car keys are required. 

Reason number 2: Some damage repairs to the car can only be done if the engine is immobilized. To immobilize the engine and start the repair work, the towers need the car keys. You should discuss this with them. 

Reason number 3: The towers ask for car keys to remove the valuable items, which might break when the car gets towed away. They will remove the items and handover to you along with the car keys if you are present on the site. 

Reason number 4: Many times, the car needs to be put in neutral before towing. This will ensure safety as the car will not move in any way. 

These reasons claim that many towers genuinely ask for the car keys.

What should I consider before giving the keys to the towing service provider?

Firstly remember that refusing the request for the car keys can lead to a delay in the service. The towers have to be extra cautious while estimating the cost of the service and towing the car. Chances are that the towing service providers might cancel the service. 

Before handing over the car keys, you should establish a level of trust with the towers. With trust, it will be easy for you to give the car keys. Just take it as a common practice of the towing companies. It’s just part of the process. 

If you are still uncomfortable, you should ask questions about the towers. You should know the exact reason for asking for the keys. You should understand the reasons as well. Other than this, you should complete the paperwork and take all the details of the towing company and the tow truck driver. If possible, you should go with them to avoid all the problems. 

Should I give the car keys or not?

It depends on the towers’ need for keys and how much you trust them. Rest, you have the right to decline the request.