Can a car be transported without keys?

Sometimes, but steering, parking brake and security restrictions can make the job more complex.

Can a vehicle with seized brakes be moved?

It requires individual assessment and may need additional equipment.

Should I try to tow it with another car?

Improvised towing can be unsafe and may breach vehicle or road requirements; use an appropriate transport method.

Transporting a Non-Runner

Non-running is not a complete description

A vehicle can fail to start yet roll and steer normally, or it can have seized brakes, locked steering and no keys. These situations need different preparation.

Use a condition checklist rather than the single word 'non-runner'.

Check the wheels and tyres

Look for flat tyres, missing wheels, brakes that will not release and suspension that has collapsed. Do not crawl under an unsupported vehicle.

Long storage can cause tyres and brakes to deteriorate.

Check steering, neutral and keys

Confirm whether the steering unlocks and the gearbox can be placed in neutral. Electronic handbrakes and selectors may depend on a 12-volt supply.

Missing keys should be disclosed before the job is priced.

Assess the storage position

A car nose-first in a garage, against a wall or behind another vehicle may be difficult to extract. Photograph the space around it and measure gates or height restrictions.

Soft ground, gravel and steep slopes affect loading.

Prepare the destination

A repairer or buyer must be ready to accept a non-runner and have suitable unloading space. Confirm any workshop gate or appointment procedure.

Useful checklist

All four wheels present
Tyres and brakes checked
Steering and neutral status known
Keys available or declared missing
Access photographed
Destination accepts non-runners