How Much Does Towing Cost?
How Much Does Towing a Car Cost
Too often, I hear about predatory towing fees and how independent towing companies will try to make a huge buck off stranded motorists. Oftentimes, these companies know you are desperate for a tow, and if you don’t have roadside assistance, then what option do you have? Everyone has been in this situation at least once: stranded on the side of the road with a breakdown that can’t be fixed by your backup tire. Whether it’s a dead battery or no gas or something even more complicated, you won’t be getting back on the road without the help of an expert. But in order to get that expert help, you need to be at your local body shop or your preferred mechanic, and you aren’t getting there on your own. You need to be towed.
But you might be wondering, “How much is this tow going to cost me?” Trust me, I’ve been there, and it’s not a great feeling. You already know your repair is going to cost you, but how much more is even getting to the shop going to cost you? But don’t worry—I’m here to break down everything you need to know about towing costs so you’re prepared the next time you need a lift.
$110 – $125 Average Cost
On average, you can expect to pay between $110 and $125 for a standard tow. This might sound like a lot, especially since the only thing you might think you’re paying for is mileage and hourly wage, but the actual cost can vary based on several factors. So, in no particular order, let’s discuss the factors that influence the towing cost.
Towing Company Cost
Different tow truck companies near you will have varying rates. Companies situated in well-off areas of town may have higher rates than those in less well-off locations. In fact, urban areas will generally have higher rates for towing due to increased amounts of traffic and higher rent costs.
Additionally, companies which have been established longer may charge more. These companies use their reputation for reliability and service quality to limit how many requests they will receive, and so typically they will have more prohibitive costs.
Finally, if you are in a special problem, like off the side of a road in a ditch or flipped, you may need special equipment to tow your vehicle. Additionally, if you have luggage that needs hauling external to your vehicle, you may need an additional truck or a truck with specific tools for the job. In the case that special equipment is necessary, your tow may cost substantially more.
Average Towing Cost Per Mile
Generally, towing companies will divide price up into two metrics: the hookup fee, and the mileage rate. Consider a case where you need to be towed 10 miles to some destination. For many companies, they will first charge you a price for even hooking up your vehicle to the towing vehicle in the first place, called the hookup fee. This fee is typically $75.
Additionally, the towing company will charge you based on how far you have to be towed. This price is dependent on local gas prices and other overhead, but suppose the price per mile is $4. Then, over 10 miles, you would be looking to pay $115 for your tow.
Why Would I Need to Be Towed?
You may need to be towed for just about a million reasons. The most common reason is a flat tire. You should always make sure you have a backup, but in the circumstance that you have none, or your spare tire fails, you will need to be towed.
However, any problem which prevents your vehicle from functioning properly counts as well. If you have an unexpected engine malfunction, you will need towing. Perhaps your battery dies and can’t be jumped. You’ll need a tow. If your starter won’t turnover, then you’ll need a tow. And obviously, if you get into a catastrophic accident, your vehicle may be totally nonfunctional.
That’s not to say that only vehicle malfunctions require towing. If you live in an area with particularly inclement weather, you may have to drive through flooding, snow, and muddy roads. Or maybe you’re an adventurer who loves off-roading. You’re especially at risk of getting stuck in these situations, and once you’re stuck, you’ll need a tow to get out.
What Services Do Car Towing Companies Offer?
Towing isn’t the only thing a towing company can offer, even if it is in the name. They can also provide a variety of convenience services, such as delivering extra fuel on the road for when you’ve stretched your tank just a little bit too far. Or maybe, if you need to jump started, towing companies near you can offer just the thing you need when you have no nearby friends. Additionally, they can provide lockout services, for the embarrassing moments when you’ve locked your keys in your vehicle (don’t worry; I’ve done that myself).
Towing Cost Estimator
Several factors influence the towing estimate calculator:
Distance
The farther you need to be towed, the more it will cost. Simple as that.
Size of Vehicle
Larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, or RVs require bigger towing trucks, which can cost twice as much or more.
Time of Day
Need a tow at 2 a.m.? After-hours services will likely have higher rates for operating outside of the most convenient hours.
Towing Service FAQs
What if I Need to Get Towed After an Accident?
Insurance often covers towing after an accident. However, you might have to use specific towing companies approved by your insurer. If you want to use a specific towing company outside your coverage, or no companies within your coverage are available, you may still be slapped with a hefty fee just for towing.
How Much Does Towing Cost Per Day?
Often, parking lots in private real estate locations will tow your vehicle if you don’t have a permit to park there. If your car is impounded or stored at a towing company’s lot, storage fees can range from $20 to $50 per day. If you can avoid it, do not let your vehicle be impounded for extended periods of time.
How Much Does Boat Towing Cost?
But what if it isn’t a car you want towed? What if it is something more exotic, like a boat? Towing boats is more common in coastal states, like Florida, but that doesn’t mean it’s cheaper. In fact, costs can range from $200 to $500 per hour, depending on your location and the situation, just because of how difficult it can be to drive and tow a boat around without the proper equipment..
How Much Does a Camper, RV, or Big Rig Cost to Tow?
Towing large vehicles like your camper or RV can cost between $135 – $150 an hour, plus a higher hookup fee due to the specialized equipment required.
Calculating the Average Cost to Tow a Car
If you want to estimate the cost of towing your vehicle, use the following steps:
- Determine the Hookup Fee: This is usually between $75 and $100, so choose a worst-case-scenario to get a ballpark on your fee.
- Calculate the Mileage Fee: Mileage fees will be anywhere between $3 and $10 per mile. The heavier your vehicle and more specialized equipment you need, the higher this will be. Multiply the per-mile rate by the number of miles to reach your target destination to get your mileage fee.
- Add Any Additional Fees: After-hours service, vehicle size, etc. Do research on your smartphone to see if any of these fees apply to you and your vehicle.
- Total It Up: Hookup Fee + Mileage Fee + Additional Fees = Total Cost.
Call the Towing Professionals with Your Questions
When in doubt, it’s best to consult with a local towing company. They can provide a precise estimate based on your situation.
Roadside Assistance Cost
Hiring a towing company to haul your vehicle can cost a lot, as we’ve discussed. Considering how much it may stretch your wallet, it might be more beneficial to join a roadside assistance club. There are several roadside assistance clubs to choose from.
Roadside Assistance Membership Clubs
- DriveSmart: Provides comprehensive coverage, including towing services and personalized assistance.
- AAA: Offers various plans with free towing up to certain distances.
- Insurance Add-Ons: Some insurance companies offer roadside assistance for a small monthly fee.
How Much Does Roadside Assistance Cost?
The cost of road side assistance varies depending on how you access it and which provider you choose. Many auto insurance companies offer roadside assistance as an add-on, typically costing an additional $15 to $30 per year. However, these plans usually cover only basic services.
Membership plans with dedicated roadside assistance providers often include more advanced services but come with a higher price tag. These memberships generally range from $50 to $200 annually, depending on the level of coverage you select.
For those who prefer flexibility, non-membership roadside assistance programs operate on a pay-as-you-go basis. While these programs don’t require annual fees, they can be costly, with service requests often exceeding $100 per incident.
On-demand pricing can quickly add up during a roadside emergency, leaving you with a steep bill when you’re already dealing with a stressful situation. Even a basic roadside assistance plan can provide peace of mind and long-term savings, making it a smarter choice in the face of the unpredictable nature of the road.
When Can I Use Roadside Assistance?
Roadside assistance is available whenever you’re on the road—day or night. Most providers, like DriveSmart, offer 24/7 service to ensure you’re never stranded for long. Whether you’re dealing with a side road assistance issue or need towing in the middle of nowhere, help is just a call away.
Get More with Membership Plans
Already have a roadside assistance membership but looking to get more out of it? Consider upgrading to a premium roadside assistance plan. Premium services offer several perks, including extended towing distances, coverage for specialty vehicles like motorcycles, RVs, and boats, and concierge benefits in case you’re stranded far from home.
Membership plans like those from AAA or DriveSmart offer more robust services, including discounts, exclusive offers, and roadside breakdown assistance tailored to frequent travelers.
Do I Need Roadside Assistance?
You’re a careful driver who stays on top of your vehicle’s maintenance, am I right? You always keep your tank full and would never leave your keys locked in the car. I get it; I’m the same way. But the truth is, the road can be unpredictable. Even the most reliable car can run into unexpected issues, and without roadside assistance, you could find yourself stuck without a backup plan. Having roadside assistance gives you the security and peace of mind to face the road with confidence.
It’s also a smart way to save money. Without a plan, towing services alone can cost hundreds of dollars for a single call. But with roadside assistance coverage, those costs are already covered by your membership.
And let’s not forget about the convenience. Whether you’re dealing with a dead battery, a flat tire, or a vehicle that just won’t start, you don’t need to worry about tools or know-how. A quick call connects you with a professional who can help wherever you are. It’s as simple as that.
Sure, skipping roadside assistance might seem like a way to save money—until something goes wrong. When you consider how even small roadside problems can disrupt your day, it’s clear that having even basic coverage is a game-changer. It saves you money, minimizes stress, and keeps you prepared for the unexpected. Why take chances when peace of mind is just a call away?
Join DriveSmart Today
Roadside assistance isn’t just about towing—it’s about freedom, safety, and enjoying the open road with confidence. With the DriveSmart Network, you unlock access to top-tier roadside services, personalized assistance, and exclusive offers designed for car lovers like you. We have a powerful application that can get you in touch with technicians sooner when you’re on the road.
Ready to drive smarter? Join today and enjoy peace of mind with every journey. Click to learn more and become a part of a network that’s always there when you need it. We have basic plans for safe drivers with tight wallets, and premium plans for those in need of more comprehensive coverage.
We love driving on the road, but that doesn’t make it any less of a crazy and chaotic space. Anything can happen on the road, especially when we are least prepared for it. Join the DriveSmart Network today to unlock access to our latest offers, personalized assistance, towing services, and more. With DriveSmart by your side, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re covered. Sign up now and keep those wheels turning smoothly!
