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Tow hooks are "run" for a variety of reasons. As homelessdrunk mentioned, some use it for protection. It has saved my front bumper on one occasion already. I was 3rd in line in the center lane at a signal. The lady in front of me decides to back up to give herself room to change into the right lane. In doing so, she taps my tow hook (slowly, but hard...if that makes sense). As she drove away I laughed at the dent that was dead center on her rear bumper. The tow hook saved my front bumper there. It has also saved me from two no front plate tickets. I told the officer that I was recently towed and showed him that I had the plate and bracket in my trunk waiting to be "re-installed." He told me to put it back on as soon as I got home and let me go. Others sport it for the "tuner" look.
OIC. Thanks for the explanation. I just never "got it" because I don't find it attractive, but it has a practical use I'd never thought of. I've never had anyone back into my front bumper on the road or parkingl Guess I'm lucky.