Cape Town - Have you perhaps discovered a strange-looking 'spanner' in your boot? It's called a tow hook and will aid you in towing a vehicle, provided you know how to use it correctly.
A tow hook can be easily overlooked, and ignored.
Automobile specialist Paul Kasker explains how to tow a vehicle using a tow hook. The tool is is found in most modern vehicles and can be used in a few easy steps.
A tow hook, Kasker explains, is a "metal rod with a round loop on the top, and looks like a flat-ended screw on the other side".
READ: Can you legally tow a trailer? It's not that simple in SA
Here's how tow a vehicle using a tow hook:
1 Remove the tow hook from the tool case below your boot cover, located near the spare wheel.
2 Carefully remove the plastic inset along the front bumper.
3 Insert the tow hook into the bumper into the securing area behind it and turn the hook either clockwise, or anti-clockwise depending on the make of vehicle, until it's tight.
4 Attach your rope, or tow device, and secure it to the towing vehicle.
5 Make sure there are no passengers in the vehicle being towed as it is illegal. Only a driver is allowed in the vehicle being towed to steer the vehicle.
Have you had a towing incident gone wrong? What's the best towing devices to use, or do you have any tips? Email us your towing experiences or get in touch via Facebook and Twitter.