How to Get Cheap Towing Service: The Ultimate Guide for Drivers
If you’re a car freak and your car breaks down, your mind is abuzz with questions. What did I hit? Was that knocking worse than I thought? Is my battery not holding a charge? There’s gas in the tank, right? The last thing you are thinking about is how much that inevitable tow will cost. We’d love to live in a utopia where our hearts’ desires can be granted for free. But let’s face it; towing services cost money, and they can be expensive if you don’t know where to look.
Fortunately, dear reader, I have good news for you: Finding an affordable towing service isn’t impossible. Whether you need a quick tow, roadside assistance, or long-haul transport, this guide will show you the best ways to secure an affordable tow truck without breaking the bank.
Looking for a Quick Car Tow? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’re searching for a “cheap towing near me” or “affordable towing service near me,” you’re not alone. When you’re stuck on the side of the road, it’s easy to panic and call the first tow truck company that appears in the search feed. If they come up first in your query, they must be good, right? Unfortunately, just because a webpage can rank well on Google doesn’t make a roadside assistance company reliable, but with a little know-how and a keen eye, you can find cheap car towing services that provide fine service for the bottom dollar.
Some of the Cheapest Towing Services Available
The best way to maximize your benefits and minimize your pay is to start from free and work your way up. Check the following options in order:
1. Auto Insurance Providers with Towing Coverage
Chances are, you have auto insurance. After all, it’s only legally mandated, so you must have auto insurance. Many auto insurance companies offer concierge for roadside assistance and towing services as an add-on to their policies. The first thing you should do when you need towing is check your coverage to see if your insurance includes 24 hour towing or roadside assistance. If you can leverage the benefits of your insurance plan, they can call a tow for you, and you won’t have to pay the extra out of pocket.
You may be concerned about what happens to your insurance premiums if you need towing. Don’t be. In general, just because you call for roadside assistance does not mean your shiny safe-driving record is smeared; everyone breaks down sometimes. Of course, if this call for assistance comes with a complimentary accident, that accident will affect your insurance rates. Either way, that roadside assistance itself won’t affect your premiums, so make that concierge call ASAP.
2. Membership-Based Roadside Assistance Programs
Okay, so what if your insurance company doesn’t offer roadside assistance? That’s fine; you still have options. If you’ve prepared in advance, you may already be a member of a roadside assistance program. Programs like AAA, Good Sam, and the DriveSmart provide local care towing services with added perks like locksmith services, battery jumps, tire changes, and other roadside necessities that can get you up and running on the road. DriveSmart, in particular, provides customized assistance, helping you save on emergency towing and more.
Like with insurance policy roadside assistance, membership organizations like DriveSmart rigorously research and compile a repository of roadside assistance and towing services in your area, creating a network of assistance that can help you no matter where you might be broken down at. Any service provider that is in your roadside assistance network will be able to come to your rescue at no upfront cost to you, and they can provide a vast array of services, from the obvious towing to more niche and immediate needs, like battery jumping.
3. Local Tow Truck Companies
No membership to a roadside assistance program? That’s fine too; though, now we are in the territory of upfront payment. From here on out, you will be paying out of pocket for any services that you need, no matter how big or how small. Still, we can try our best to find the cheapest tow truck company.
On the cheaper end of things, you can find the small-name, local towing company. Big-name towing companies with networks of outposts around the US are usually burdened with the need to fund overhead for company organization. Due to this, these larger companies tend to charge hefty fees, and the service they provide is not guaranteed to be better for that price either. Small, local tow truck operators often offer more competitive prices, since they are competing locally for your dollar, and generally do not have the overhead required of larger companies.
Search online for affordable tow truck services near you and compare prices before calling a service. Looking for local companies in your immediate vicinity should be your top priority.
4. Towing Services Through Auto Repair Shops
Sometimes, for the experienced drivers out there, you may have an inkling as to what problems your vehicle is suffering. If you know that your vehicle is going to be in need of serious repairs, consider contacting a local auto repair shop for help instead of going to a towing company first. Some repair shops provide towing services as part of their repair package. If your car needs immediate repairs, these businesses can tow your vehicle at a discounted rate or even free if you’re getting work done at their shop.
If you know that you are going to need repairs for a fact, shop around for nearby auto shops. See if you can get a quote for the repairs you need over the phone so that you can make informed decisions about where to go.
5. Online Marketplaces and Towing Apps
Even if you are not a member of a roadside assistance program, that does not mean there are no ways to find well-established and trusted towing companies. Apps like Honk, Urgent.ly, and TowMyCar connect you with reliable towing services with upfront, transparent pricing. These platforms often partner with smaller providers, giving you access to cheap car towing services near you without hidden fees.
If you’re the indecisive type, this method is for you. The power to quickly compare nearby competitors is not to be underestimated. Make sure to check reviews of these companies online as well, once you feel close to making up your mind.
6. Discount Towing Services
If you’re lucky, some companies offer promotional pricing. Occasionally, you may see bright banners on websites that read something like, like “cheap car towing services $9.95” or “cheap car towing service $20 deals”. Obviously, these discount services may be limited. Be sure to read the fine print—these low prices often cover only a short distance, with additional mileage fees that can rack up rapidly if you aren’t careful.
Not to be a downer, but unscrupulous companies look to prey on vulnerable drivers who are stuck in unknown territory, and may lay out predatory practices looking to make a quick buck. Defend yourself against these with research and logic. If it looks too good to be true, chances are it is.
How to Find the Cheapest Towing Company Near You
Finding cheap car towing services is one thing, but knowing how to keep costs down is another. Here are some money-saving tips:
1. Compare Prices Before You Need a Tow
Do some research now and keep a list of towing companies with reasonable rates. Knowing where to call ahead of time will save you from overpaying in an emergency.
2. Ask About Flat-Rate vs. Per-Mile Pricing
Some towing companies charge a base rate plus per-mile fees, while others offer a flat rate. Depending on the distance, one option might be cheaper than the other.
3. Check for Membership Discounts
AAA, DriveSmart, and other roadside assistance programs offer discounts on towing services. Even warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam’s Club may have partnerships for cheap car towing service near me.
4. Use Your Warranty or Car Manufacturer’s Roadside Assistance
If your car is still under warranty, your dealership may provide free or discounted towing. Brands like Ford, Honda, and Toyota offer roadside assistance programs for newer vehicles.
5. Avoid Peak Hours and Holidays
Towing rates can skyrocket during busy periods, like weekends and holidays. If possible, schedule your tow during off-peak hours to save money.
6. Read Reviews and Avoid Scams
Not all cheap car towing services are created equal. Check reviews, ask for a price quote upfront, and avoid companies with hidden fees or questionable reputations.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Towing?
When it comes to the cost of towing, your mileage may vary. Literally. Towing costs are based on a variety of factors, so before you cry wolf at high prices, considering the following:
- Distance – The farther you have to tow, the more expensive that tow will be. Towing companies will typically advertise a mileage rate based on the distance you need to be towed. To minimize your cost, try to tow as little distance as possible.
- Vehicle Size – The heavier your vehicle is, the harder it is to tow. In some cases, your vehicle may even need special equipment just to haul it around! If you have a bulky vehicle like a truck or RV, or even an expensive, luxury vehicle or something that is all-wheel drive, expect to pay hefty fees.
- Road Conditions – If you’ve gone off-road or your vehicle is in a difficult-to-reach location, such as a ditch, you will likely need specialized equipment, which may increase the cost.
- Time of Day – 24/7 towing is a blessing and a curse. It sure is convenient when it’s there, but convenience comes at a cost. If you need to be towed at night time, you are likely to incur additional fees.
No matter what, make sure you call for a quote before going with any particular towing service.
How to Save Money on Towing Services
Looking for ways to lower your towing bill? Here are some tips:
- Negotiate Rates – Ask the tow truck driver if they can offer a discount, especially if you’re paying in cash.
- Use a Roadside Assistance Plan – Some programs offer free or discounted tows.
- Find a Nearby Tow Yard – Searching for “nearest tow yard near me” can help you reduce costs if your car needs temporary storage.
- Ask About Mileage Rates – Some companies charge per mile, so be sure to confirm the cost in advance.
DriveSmart Towing Available in Major Cities
Why DriveSmart is Your Best Option for Affordable Roadside Assistance
If you’re tired of searching for “cheap towing options” every time you break down, it’s time to join the DriveSmart Network. Our members enjoy exclusive roadside assistance benefits, including:
- Discounted Towing Services – Get access to the most affordable towing providers in your area.
- 24/7 Roadside Support – Whether you need a jump start, tire change, or tow, we’ve got you covered.
- Personalized Assistance – We help you find the best tow companies at the lowest prices.
DriveSmart is Here to Help
Roadside assistance is more than just towing. It’s about freedom, safety, and the confidence to enjoy the open road. With DriveSmart, you gain access to premium roadside services, personalized support, and exclusive perks tailored for car enthusiasts like you. Our powerful app connects you with technicians faster, so help is always just a tap away when you need it most.
Ready to drive smarter? Join today and enjoy peace of mind on every journey. Whether you’re a safe driver on a budget or need comprehensive coverage, we’ve got a plan that fits your lifestyle.
Life on the road can be unpredictable. Anything can happen when you least expect it. But with DriveSmart, you’re always prepared. Unlock towing services, exclusive offers, and personalized assistance that keeps you moving forward. Sign up now and let DriveSmart keep your wheels turning with confidence.
Sign up now and unlock exclusive discounts on towing, repairs, and more!
