Used 2016 Tow Trucks For Sale

The most common used 2016 tow trucks are light-duty self-loader wreckers and medium-duty rollback carriers. Self-loaders are popular for repossession work, private property impounds, and quick urban recoveries because they can hook and lift a vehicle fast. Rollback carriers, also called car carriers or slidebacks, are preferred when the vehicle needs full deck transport, such as all-wheel-drive vehicles, damaged units, low-clearance cars, or equipment that should not be towed by the wheels.

Many 2016 tow trucks in the light-duty class are built on Ram 4500 or similar diesel chassis with automatic transmissions and hydraulic towing equipment. Medium-duty units often use Cummins-powered Freightliner, International, or Peterbilt chassis with Allison automatic transmissions, air brakes, and air ride suspension. GVWR, axle ratings, wheelbase, and PTO or hydraulic setup matter more than badge alone because they determine how the truck handles body weight, wheel-lift load, and daily stop-and-go towing work.

Start with the tow body and hydraulic system before cosmetics. Check deck structure, subframe condition, cylinder leaks, hose routing, winch operation, wheel-lift function, pivot points, crossmembers, and any signs of frame repair or overloaded use. On rollback trucks, inspect deck slide operation, bed angle, winch cable condition, and rail wear. On wreckers, pay attention to boom pins, wheel-lift bushings, drag winch performance, and the condition of safety chains, straps, dollies, and lighting.

A 2016 tow truck can still be a strong commercial unit if the maintenance history is solid and the body has not been neglected. Tow trucks accumulate wear differently than standard trucks because hydraulic cycles, curb impacts, short-trip idling, and constant loading stress the equipment. A well-maintained 2016 unit can perform reliably in local towing, dealership transport, municipal impound work, and roadside assistance, but the value depends heavily on service records, rust level, and the condition of the tow gear.

Many used tow trucks are sold with core recovery gear such as wheel-lift straps, safety chains, cluster hooks, V-bridles, tow socks, dollies, fire extinguisher, and DOT triangles. Rollback carriers may also include toolboxes, removable rails, work lights, and an 8,000-lb class winch. Equipment varies by prior operator, so buyers should confirm exactly what stays with the truck and verify that the included gear is still serviceable and compliant for daily use.