Blog Post

5 Fun Facts about Tow Trucks from Our Cincinnati Towing Company

Millennium Towing & Recovery • 2 August 2023

Since Ernest Holmes invented it in 1916, the “hook & chain” style of tow truck has continuously been in use. It’s an efficient design that has towed countless vehicles out of difficult circumstances. After all these years, the tow truck industry is still chugging forward. At Millennium Towing & Recovery, we’re proud to offer fast 24/7 towing in the greater Cincinnati area. Here are five interesting facts about tow trucks.


The First Tow Truck Was a Cadillac

Ernest Holmes, a mechanic, fitted a 1913 Cadillac with a pulley-and-crane configuration. While this design has since evolved, this particular Cadillac is what modern tow trucks can trace their lineage to. 


There are Five Modern Tow Truck Styles

In the U.S., there are five main tow truck styles: hook & chain, boom, flatbed, wheel lift, and integrated. When you call in for a tow truck, the company will look up specifications about your vehicle to make sure you are matched with the right type of tow truck for the job. 


Tow Truck Museum

If you ever find yourself in Chattanooga, TN (where Ernest Holmes lived), you can visit the International Towing Museum. Founded in 2006, the museum provides an assortment of fun memorabilia and information related to the towing industry. Additionally, the museum features portraits of those who have been inducted into the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame. 


Canada Has the Biggest Tow Trucks

In the event that you’re driving a very large vehicle and need to be towed, Canada is a great place to be. Our neighbors to the north have tow trucks that are so big that they take up multiple highway lanes. Big tow trucks are important in Canada because of brutal winters and a massive trucking industry.


Most Tow Truck Drivers Prefer Flatbeds

Because they are easy to operate and minimize the risk of damage to the car being towed, most tow truck drivers drive flatbeds whenever possible. 


24/7 Towing in Cincinnati

When you need a tow truck in Cincinnati and the surrounding area, contact Millennium Towing & Recovery at (513) 715-0621. Our local towing company also offers fast 24/7 roadside assistance in Cincinnati. Feel free to give us a call for 24/7 towing in the greater Cincinnati area!

by Millennium Towing & Recovery 8 February 2025
As proud members of the Cincinnati business community, our team at Millennium Towing & Recovery strives to earn our customers’ total satisfaction by providing top-quality towing services, fair rates, and a friendly crew. And we’re grateful when our customers offer feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our recent customer reviews. “Fantastic job. Got in a bind when a new (to me) salt truck with plow lost its air brakes suddenly. 29kGVW. NOT A PROBLEM! Even got around the full sized plow on the front end. Driver was very friendly, professional, communicative, and walked me through everything he was doing. Rigged everything up perfectly and drove the truck almost an hour away to my final destination without issue. Life saver.” —Justin M. “I have used this company before for minor tows and odds and ends. However, after getting my car stuck in DEEP snow and trying for days to dig out, calling friends to help, and basically giving up, I called them. Their dispatch sent Todd who not only got me out of a pickle in 10 minutes, but had a good sense of humor about it as well. I called at 6 pm. Todd was there by 8 same day and was nothing short of professional. I will also add that anytime I've called outside of the snow issue, all of their drivers were polite and gentle with my vehicle. 10 out of 10. Recommend.” —Rick V. “Seriously great people to deal with! Great prices on towing and very quick to arrive and help! And some of the nicest people I’ve dealt with! Couldn’t have had a better experience with these good people! Thank you guys for the help and fast service.” —Mohammed A. “Thomas was just phenomenal! Got the job done quickly in this awful cold, but thanks to him everything was okay. Super fast and reliable, 5 stars!” —Sofia P. “The people on the phone are very pleasant to work with and they’re very punctual on getting a tow. Highly recommend.” —Darrell S. 24/7 Towing & Roadside Assistance in Cincinnati When you need towing services in Cincinnati and the surrounding area, contact Millennium Towing & Recovery at (513) 715-0621. Don’t hesitate to give us a call when you need emergency roadside help in Cincinnati and the neighboring areas. We’ll show up promptly to get you out of harm’s way!
by Millennium Towing & Recovery 10 January 2025
Vehicle breakdowns can be inconvenient, costly, and sometimes even dangerous. Fortunately, many breakdowns are preventable with regular maintenance and mindful driving habits. But if your car does break down, you’ll want assistance to arrive ASAP. At Millennium Towing & Recovery, we provide 24/7 towing and roadside assistance in the greater Cincinnati area. Here’s a look at five tips for preventing vehicle breakdowns. Follow a Regular Maintenance Schedule Routine maintenance is one of the most effective ways to prevent vehicle breakdowns. Sticking to your vehicle manufacturer's recommended service intervals ensures that essential components like the engine, transmission, and brakes are inspected and serviced regularly. Oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks should never be overlooked. Keep an Eye on Warning Lights Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced diagnostic systems that display warning lights when something isn’t functioning properly. Ignoring lights such as the check engine or oil pressure warning can lead to breakdowns, as well as serious damage. Address any illuminated warning lights as soon as possible to prevent further complications. Check Tire Condition and Pressure Tires play a crucial role in your vehicle's overall safety and performance. Underinflated, overinflated, or worn-out tires can cause blowouts or affect handling, increasing the risk of breakdowns. Regularly check your tire pressure and tread depth, and replace tires when they are excessively worn. Monitor/Change Fluids Your vehicle relies on various fluids—including engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and brake fluid—to operate effectively. Low or dirty fluids can lead to overheating poor performance, and component failure. Fluids should always be changed per your manufacturer’s guidelines. Listen for Unusual Noises Strange noises—such as grinding, squealing, and knocking—are often early indications of mechanical problems. Ignoring these sounds can allow minor issues to escalate into major breakdowns. If you hear something unusual, have your vehicle inspected by the mechanic right away. 24/7 Towing & Roadside Assistance in Cincinnati When you need a reliable towing company in Cincinnati and the surrounding area, contact Millennium Towing & Recovery at (513) 715-0621. Don’t hesitate to give us a call when you need emergency roadside help in greater Cincinnati. We’ll show up ASAP to get you out of harm’s way!
by Millennium Towing 4 December 2024
When you're stranded on the side of the road, reliable roadside assistance can make all the difference. Millennium Towing in Cincinnati offers a comprehensive range of services designed to get you back on the road quickly and safely. Whether you’re dealing with a flat tire, a dead battery, or a more serious issue, our experienced team is ready to assist. Here are five essential roadside assistance services provided by Millennium Towing. Emergency Towing Services If your vehicle is disabled due to a mechanical failure, accident, or other unforeseen issue, Millennium Towing offers fast and efficient towing services. Our fleet of tow trucks is equipped to handle vehicles of all sizes, from cars and SUVs to light trucks. Available 24/7, our towing services ensure you’re never left stranded, no matter where you are in the greater Cincinnati area. Jump-Start Assistance A dead battery can leave you stuck when you least expect it. Millennium Towing provides quick jump-start assistance to get your vehicle running again. Whether it’s a drained battery from leaving the lights on or a cold morning that’s taken its toll, our technicians will arrive promptly and get you back on the road in no time. Tire Change Services A flat tire can happen at the most inconvenient times, and not everyone has the tools or expertise to change it safely. Millennium Towing offers professional tire change services, ensuring your spare tire is installed correctly and securely. Fuel Delivery Running out of gas is a frustrating experience, especially when you’re far from a gas station. Millennium Towing provides fuel delivery services to ensure you’re never stranded without fuel. Our team will deliver the necessary amount of gas to get you back on the road and to the nearest fueling station, saving you time and stress. Lockout Services Accidentally locking your keys inside your vehicle can be a stressful situation. Millennium Towing offers fast and reliable lockout services to help you regain access to your vehicle without causing damage. Our technicians use specialized tools and techniques to unlock your car quickly, so you can continue with your day. 24/7 Roadside Assistance in Cincinnati When you need roadside assistance in Cincinnati and the surrounding area, contact Millennium Towing & Recovery at (513) 715-0621. Don’t hesitate to give us a call when you need emergency roadside help in Cincinnati, OH!
by Millennium Towing & Recovery 7 November 2024
A tire blowout is a frustrating experience, as well as a potentially dangerous one. Blowouts can cause drivers to lose control, leading to accidents and costly repairs. Knowing the common causes of tire blowouts can help you take preventive measures and keep your vehicle safer on the road. But if your car does suffer a blowout, and you need help to arrive promptly, our team at Millennium Towing & Recovery will show up ASAP to help you out. Here are four common reasons why tires blow out. Underinflation Underinflated tires are one of the leading causes of blowouts. When a tire is underinflated, more of its surface area comes into contact with the road, increasing friction. This extra heat and friction wear down the tire more quickly and can cause it to fail, especially when driving at high speeds. Regularly checking and maintaining proper tire pressure is one of the easiest ways to avoid a blowout. Overloading Overloading a vehicle, especially with heavy cargo, puts additional stress on tires. Tires have a specific load capacity, and exceeding this limit can lead to excessive strain, causing them to overheat and eventually blow out. Make sure to always adhere to your vehicle’s load recommendations. Potholes and Road Hazards Hitting a pothole, curb, or other road hazard at high speed can cause immediate or delayed tire damage. The impact can cause internal damage to the tire’s structure or weaken its sidewall. These issues can eventually lead to a blowout. To minimize the risk, drive carefully in areas where potholes are common. Excessive Wear and Tear Worn-out tires are naturally more susceptible to blowouts. As tires age, the rubber degrades, and the treads wear down, making them less able to withstand the demands of the road. Regularly rotating your tires, checking tread depth, and replacing them when they become worn can help prevent a blowout caused by wear and tear. 24/7 Roadside Assistance in Cincinnati If one of your tires blows out and you need roadside assistance in Cincinnati , contact Millennium Towing & Recovery at (513) 715-0621. Don’t hesitate to give us a call when you need emergency roadside assistance in greater Cincinnati!
by Millennium Towing & Recovery 5 October 2024
As winter approaches, preparing your car for cold temperatures, icy roads, and snow is essential for staying safe and avoiding breakdowns. But if you do find yourself stranded in wintry conditions, our team at Millennium Towing & Recovery can help you out. Here are five tips to help you get your car winter-ready. Check Your Battery Cold weather puts extra strain on your car’s battery, making it more likely to fail. Have your battery tested to ensure it has enough charge to withstand freezing temperatures. If it’s nearing the end of its lifespan, consider replacing it before winter hits. Also, check the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure they're tightly connected. Consider Switching to Winter Tires Winter tires are designed to provide better traction on snow and ice, significantly improving your car’s handling in slippery conditions. Also, make sure to check the tire pressure regularly, as it can drop when temperatures fall. Inspect Your Wipers and Washer Fluid Clear visibility is crucial during winter storms, so it’s essential to make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition. Replace worn-out blades and fill your washer reservoir with winter-grade washer fluid, which won’t freeze in cold weather. Consider carrying an extra bottle of washer fluid in your trunk for emergencies. Check Your Antifreeze Levels Antifreeze is vital for preventing your engine from freezing in cold temperatures. Make sure your car has the proper antifreeze-to-water ratio, typically 50:50, for optimal protection. If your antifreeze levels are low or the fluid looks dirty, consider flushing the system and refilling it before winter arrives. Pack a Winter Emergency Kit Being prepared for unexpected breakdowns is crucial in winter. It’s wise to pack an emergency kit with essentials like blankets, a flashlight, jumper cables, ice scraper, snow shovel, tire chains, and non-perishable food. A fully charged portable phone charger is also smart to keep in your car during the colder months. 24/7 Towing & Roadside Assistance in Cincinnati When you need towing services in Cincinnati and the surrounding area, contact Millennium Towing & Recovery at (513) 715-0621. We’ll show up promptly to get you out of harm’s way!
by Millennium Towing & Recovery 6 September 2024
Tire blowouts are one of the most dangerous situations a semi truck driver can face. They pose significant safety risks to the driver and other road users. Fortunately, there are proactive steps that truck owners and drivers can take to help minimize the risk of tire blowouts. But if your big rig does suffer a tire blowout, you’ll want help to arrive quickly. At Millennium Towing & Recovery, we provide 24/7 semi truck roadside assistance in the greater Cincinnati area. Here are four tips for preventing semi truck tire blowouts. Maintain Proper Tire Pressure One of the leading causes of tire blowouts is improper inflation. Both underinflated and overinflated tires can cause undue stress on the tire walls, leading to a higher chance of a blowout. Regularly check the tire pressure and make sure it is within the manufacturer’s recommended range. Inspect Tires for Damage Frequent inspections of your truck’s tires are crucial for identifying early signs of damage that could lead to a blowout. Look for visible damage such as cracks, bulges, cuts, or embedded objects. Pay close attention to the tire tread, as worn-out tread significantly increases the chances of a blowout. Make it a habit to inspect your tires before every trip. Avoid Overloading the Truck Exceeding your truck’s weight capacity puts excessive strain on the tires, increasing the likelihood of a blowout. Always follow the manufacturer’s weight guidelines and distribute the load evenly to avoid creating high-pressure points on the tires. Rotate Tires Regularly Tire rotation helps ensure that all tires wear evenly, reducing the risk of a blowout caused by uneven wear. Regular tire rotation extends the life of your tires and keeps them in better condition for longer. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for tire rotation intervals to help keep your tires in optimal shape. 24/7 Semi Truck Towing & Roadside Assistance in Cincinnati When you need heavy duty towing in Cincinnati and the surrounding area, contact Millennium Towing & Recovery at (513) 715-0621. Don't hesitate to give us a call the next time you need emergency roadside help!
by Millennium Towing 14 August 2024
At Millennium Towing & Recovery, it’s our mission to earn our customers’ satisfaction by providing exceptional 24/7 towing services in the greater Cincinnati area. Whether your commuter car needs a jumpstart or your semi truck needs to be towed off the side of the highway, our team will show up ASAP to safely handle the job. And we appreciate it when our customers provide feedback about the work that we did for them. Here’s a look at some of our latest customer reviews. “I was stuck without power on 275 and Rob came right away to pick me up. He was so awesome, even called Autozone for me to see if my battery was under warranty, took me there, argued they should replace it on my behalf, then took me to repair shop for an alternator. He was SO amazing. Thank you so much, Rob!” —Stacy M. Millennium Towing & Recovery is an outstanding service provider! Vickie, their dispatcher, is always quick to respond and incredibly helpful. Troy, the owner, runs a tight ship and ensures that every job is handled with professionalism and efficiency. As a neighbor, we're grateful for their reliable service and friendly team. Highly recommend Millennium Towing & Recovery for all your towing needs!” —Hamilton Truck and Tire “We needed a last minute tow of our rv fifth wheel to a repair shop. We called several places and this place was incredible in responsiveness, quality and experience. We certainly called best!” —Michelle W. “Millennium Towing did an amazing job getting our Corvette off of a hill in the backyard! I would call them again in a heartbeat.” —Audrey C. “Excellent service! Highly recommend!” —Michelle M. 24/7 Towing & Roadside Assistance in Cincinnati When you need towing services in Cincinnati and the surrounding area, contact Millennium Towing & Recovery at (513) 715-0621. Don’t hesitate to give us a call when you need emergency roadside help in Cincinnati and the neighboring areas. We’ll show up promptly to get you out of harm’s way!
by Millennium Towing & Recovery 8 July 2024
Experiencing a breakdown can be one of the most frustrating aspects of car ownership. In such a situation, you want to work with a towing company that will make the experience as stress-free as possible. At Millennium Towing & Recovery, we provide fast 24/7 towing in the greater Cincinnati area. Here’s a look at three common reasons that vehicles break down and need to be towed. Overheating Engine An overheating engine can cause significant damage and often leads to a breakdown. The engine may overheat due to a variety of issues, such as a coolant leak, a failed water pump, or a malfunctioning thermostat. If you notice steam coming from under the hood or if the temperature gauge is in the red zone, it’s smart to pull over safely and call for a tow. Continuing to drive an overheating engine can lead to severe damage, including a blown head gasket or warped cylinder heads. Transmission Problems Transmission issues can range from minor glitches to major malfunctions, but they often lead to breakdowns. Symptoms of transmission problems include slipping gears, harsh or erratic shifting, or unusual noises. Transmission repairs can be complex and costly, so if you experience these symptoms, it’s wise to have your car towed to a trusted mechanic for a thorough diagnosis and repair. Fuel-Related Issues Sometimes, drivers underestimate their fuel level or ignore the warning light, only to find themselves stranded with an empty tank. In such situations, our team at Millennium Towing & Recovery can provide fuel delivery to your location to get you back on the road. But there are other fuel-related issues that can cause breakdowns and require a tow, such as a fully-clogged fuel filter or a failed fuel pump. 24/7 Towing & Roadside Assistance in Cincinnati When you need a reliable towing company in Cincinnati and the surrounding area, contact Millennium Towing & Recovery at (513) 715-0621. Don’t hesitate to give us a call when you need emergency roadside help in greater Cincinnati. We’ll show up promptly to get you out of harm’s way!
by Millennium Towing & Recovery 26 June 2024
Whether it's a flat tire, dead battery, or running out of gas, these issues can quickly derail your plans and leave you stranded on the side of the road. However, our team at Millennium Towing & Recovery will show up ASAP to take care of the problem and get you back on the road. While we specialize in towing, we also provide an assortment of other services to assist drivers. Here’s a short overview of our top roadside assistance services in the greater Cincinnati, OH area. Battery Jumpstarts A dead battery can leave you stranded in the most inconvenient locations. Fortunately, we offer battery jumpstart services to get you back on the road quickly. Whether your battery has drained due to leaving your lights on or extreme weather conditions, our crew members can safely jumpstart your vehicle, allowing you to continue your journey without further delay. Tire Changes A flat tire is a common occurrence on the road, but changing it yourself can be challenging and even dangerous, especially on busy highways or in adverse weather conditions. At Millennium Towing & Recovery, we provide tire change services to alleviate the stress and risk associated with roadside tire changes. Equipped with the necessary tools and expertise, our technicians can quickly and safely replace your flat tire with a spare or bring a new tire if necessary. Fuel Delivery Running out of gas is an inconvenience that can easily happen, especially if you're unfamiliar with an area or driving long distances. We offer fuel delivery services to provide you with the fuel you need to reach the nearest gas station. Whether you've misjudged your fuel range or encountered unexpected traffic delays, a simple call to us can get you back on the road. Lockout Assistance Locking your keys inside your vehicle is a frustrating experience that can happen to anyone. In such situations, we provide lockout assistance services to help you regain access to your vehicle without causing damage. Using specialized tools and techniques, our technicians can safely unlock your car door, allowing you to retrieve your keys and continue with your day. 24/7 Roadside Assistance in Cincinnati When you need roadside assistance in Cincinnati and the surrounding area, contact Millennium Towing & Recovery at (513) 715-0621. Don’t hesitate to give us a call when you need emergency roadside help in Cincinnati, OH!
by Millennium Towing & Recovery 8 May 2024
Finding a reputable towing company can be a lifesaver in stressful situations like car breakdowns and accidents. Entrusting your vehicle to a towing service requires confidence in their professionalism, reliability, and integrity. At Millennium Towing & Recovery, we’ve earned a strong reputation for providing dependable 24/7 towing in the greater Cincinnati area. Here’s a look at five signs you’ve found a reputable towing company. Transparency and Clear Pricing One of the foremost signs of a reputable towing company is transparency in their pricing. They should provide clear estimates upfront, detailing any potential additional charges. A trustworthy towing service will communicate openly about costs, ensuring you understand what you're paying for. Prompt Response and Availability Emergencies on the road require immediate assistance. A reputable towing company understands the urgency of the situation and prioritizes prompt response times. Whether it's a breakdown in the middle of the night or during rush hour, they should be available 24/7 to assist you. Professionalism and Proper Licensing Professionalism is non-negotiable when it comes to towing services. Reputable companies adhere to industry standards and regulations, and they ensure that their drivers are properly trained and licensed. A trustworthy towing company will arrive in branded vehicles, equipped with the necessary tools and equipment to handle towing and roadside assistance professionally and safely. Comprehensive Services A reputable towing company offers more than just basic towing services. They should provide a range of roadside assistance services, including jump-starts, tire changes, fuel delivery, and lockout assistance. Positive Reviews Online reviews and recommendations play a significant role in assessing the credibility of a business. Before choosing a towing company, take the time to read reviews from previous customers. Look for consistent positive feedback regarding their service quality, response times, and customer satisfaction. 24/7 Towing & Roadside Assistance in Cincinnati When you need a reputable towing company in Cincinnati and the surrounding area, contact Millennium Towing & Recovery at (513) 715-0621. Don’t hesitate to give us a call when you need emergency roadside help in greater Cincinnati. We’ll show up promptly to get you out of harm’s way!
Show More
Share by: