Tow Bar Comparison: Fixed, Detachable or Swivel?

A tow bar significantly expands the capabilities of your vehicle. Especially when the trunk is not enough, it offers a practical solution – whether for trailers, bike racks or additional transport needs.

In everyday use, it quickly becomes clear how versatile a tow bar can be and how much flexibility it provides.

Below, we explain the key differences between the three types: fixed, detachable and swivel. We also show which solution is best suited for different use cases.

Fixed Tow Bar

The fixed version has a permanently mounted tow ball that is either welded or bolted in place. It is always visible and cannot be removed.
Advantage: robust, simple and cost-effective solution.
Disadvantage: appearance and slightly increased air resistance.

Detachable Tow Bar

This version is particularly popular as it offers a good balance between functionality and appearance. The tow ball can be easily removed when not in use, making it almost invisible in everyday driving.
It is slightly more expensive than the fixed version but more flexible and ideal for occasional use.
Depending on the vehicle, a small cut-out in the bumper may remain visible.

Swivel Tow Bar

Swivel tow bars are considered a modern and convenient solution. When retracted, they are completely hidden and can be deployed manually or electrically when needed.
Advantage: maximum convenience and best appearance.
Disadvantage: higher cost.

Which tow bar is right for me?

The right choice mainly depends on how often you use the tow bar and what your requirements are:

• Occasional use: detachable tow bar – flexible and visually unobtrusive
• Frequent use: fixed tow bar – robust and cost-effective
• Maximum comfort: swivel tow bar – hidden and particularly convenient

If appearance is important to you, a detachable or swivel version is recommended. For purely functional use, a fixed tow bar is usually sufficient.

Does a tow bar need to be coded?

After installing a tow bar, it is recommended to code it in the vehicle. This allows the vehicle to recognize the new component and adjust its systems accordingly.

There are generally two options:

Offline coding

Coding is performed directly on the vehicle, for example via the OBD interface using software such as VCDS.

• quick and straightforward solution
• usually only possible for vehicles up to around model year 2022

Online coding

Coding is carried out using an activation document via the manufacturer or an authorized workshop. This method is usually more complex but offers clear advantages.

Especially for newer vehicles (from around 2022) with SFD2 protection, online coding is often the recommended or only viable solution.

An important point: modern vehicles may receive OTA (Over the Air) updates. In some cases, these updates can overwrite a previously performed offline coding of the tow bar.

What are the benefits of proper coding?

When correctly coded, the vehicle automatically detects trailer operation and adjusts various systems:

• deactivation of rear parking sensors (PDC)
• adjustment of assistance systems such as Lane Assist
• adjustment of following distance in adaptive cruise control (ACC)
• additional display functions when reversing (e.g. trailer mode)

This results in safer and more comfortable driving when towing.

What happens without coding?

If the tow bar is not coded, the following limitations may occur:

• continuous warning tones from parking sensors when reversing
• no adjustment of driver assistance systems
• possible error messages or warning indicators

For modern vehicles in particular, coding is therefore an important part of the retrofit process.

Important: Nose weight and towing capacity

The permitted towing capacity and nose weight are specified in the vehicle registration documents and must always be observed.
Exceeding these limits can result in damage to the vehicle and loss of road approval.

Towing brackets

Towing brackets are mainly used in commercial applications where very heavy loads need to be moved. They are mounted directly to the vehicle chassis and provide a particularly stable connection.
In combination with a jaw coupling, they allow the use of different types of trailers.

The specified limits for towing capacity and nose weight must also be observed here.

Find the right tow bar for your vehicle

In our range, you will find vehicle-specific tow bars for many models. You can explore suitable solutions for your vehicle at the following link:
Retrofit a tow bar

We offer both shipping and professional installation on-site in Bielefeld by experienced specialists.