Towbar Types

There are several types of towbars for cars, the most common are flange type and swan neck

Both of these towbars for cars are available as fixed or detachable.

Choosing the correct tow bar can be confusing because there are many options.

However, tow bars can be specific to a certain vehicle so your vehicle may have limited options. That said most modern cars can have all of them fitted, then it's down to your own preference.

The most commonly used type of towbars for cars in the UK is the flange tow bar. The flange towbar is the tow bar where the tow ball is bolted to the tow bar with bolts and works as the most versatile design.

It is the most versatile of tow bars because it can be used with tow ball mounted accessories such as cycle carriers, bumper protectors and stabilisers, all mounted between the tow bar & ball. 

Flange tow bars are available in both fixed and detachable versions.

Here is our guide to tow bar types to help you choose

Fixed Flange Towbar

Fixed Flange Towbars for Cars
  • Versatile tow bar capable of using accessories like some models of cycle carriers whilst towing
  • Tends to be cheaper
  • Can be used with bumper guards
  • Can be height adjustable
  • Bulky
  • Not compatible with reversing sensors
  • May need an Alko ball
  • Gets in the way when using your boot or walking round the back of the vehicle

Fixed Swan Neck Towbar

Fixed Swan Neck Towbars for Cars
  • Compact design
  • Looks nice with a sleek feel
  • Less chance to interfere with parking sensors
  • Capable of carrying all types of ball mount cycle carriers
  • Less chance of getting in the way when using your boot or walking round the back of the vehicle
  • Cannot use a bumper guard
  • Only compatible with clamp on bike carriers

Detachable Swan Neck Towbar

Detachable Swan Neck Towbars for cars
  • When removed will not interfere with parking sensors
  • When removed will not interfere with parking sensors
  • No chance of getting in the way when using your boot or walking round the back of the vehicle
  • Alko compatible
  • Fits clamp on bike carriers
  • If the neck is lost after taking off, this can be very expensive to replace
  • Tow bar height cannot be changed
  • Not as sleek as the fixed version

Detachable Flange Towbar

Detachable Flange Towbars for cars
  • When removed no signs of tow bar being fitted
  • When removed will not interfere with parking sensors
  • No chance of getting in the way when using your boot or walking round the back of the vehicle
  • Accessories can be carried behind the towball like bumper plates and bike plate adapters
  • Alko balls can be specified
  • If the neck is lost after taking off, this can be very expensive to replace

We fit Towbars for Cars - Car manufacturers