1999 Honda CR-V Owner's Manual - Page 264

Towing If your vehicle needs to be towed, call a professional towing service or, if you belong to one, an organization that provides roadside assistance. Never tow your vehicle behind another vehicle with just a rope or chain. It is very dangerous. Emergency Towing There are three popular methods of towing a vehicle: Flat-bed Equipment - The operator loads your vehicle on the back of a truck. This is the only way to transport your vehicle. Any other method of towing will damage the drive system. When you contact the towing agency, inform them that a flat-bed is required. NOTICE Towing a 4WD CR-V with only two tires on the ground will damage parts of the 4WD system. It should be transported on a flat-bed truck or trailer. NOTICE Improper towing preparation will damage the transmission. Follow the above procedure exactly. If you cannot shift the transmission or start the engine (automatic transmission), your vehicle must be transported on a flatbed. Wheel Lift Equipment - The tow truck uses two pivoting arms that go under the tires (front or rear) and lift them off the ground. The other two tires remain on the ground. Never tow your vehicle with wheel lift equipment. Sling-type Equipment - The tow truck uses metal cables with hooks on the ends. These hooks go around parts of the frame or suspension and cables lift that end of the vehicle off the ground. Your vehicle's suspension and body can be seriously damaged. This method of towing your CR-V is unacceptable. Refer to Towing Your Vehicle Behind a Motorhome on page 176 for non-emergency towing information. Taking Care of the Unexpected