How Much Does It Cost to Tow a Car?

Towing a car can be a necessary inconvenience, whether you’re dealing with a breakdown, a flat tire, or a breakdown caused by an accident. So, how much does it cost to tow a car?

The cost to tow a car will depend on the distance, the size and weight of the vehicle, and any special circumstances. Generally, you can expect to pay around $75 – $125 for a local tow and up to $250 for a long-distance tow.

Knowing how much to pay for towing can help you plan for the unexpected and handle the situation more efficiently. In this article, we’ll explore the factors that can contribute to the cost of towing a car and provide tips to help you save money.

How Much Does It Cost to Tow a Car?

Let’s look at the different types of car towing services and how much does it cost to tow a car?

• Local Towing Services

Local towing is required when your car is stuck within a few miles of where you are. Generally, the cost for local towing is between $50 and $125, with the average cost being around $75. 

This cost usually covers up to the tow’s first 5-10 miles. Any additional miles will be charged extra, with the fee varying from $2-$5 per mile.

• Long Distance Towing Services

If your car needs to be towed from one state to another or even from one town to another, you will need to hire a long-distance tow truck. The cost of long-distance towing can vary greatly. 

The cost will depend on the distance, the weight of the car, and the type of tow truck required. Generally, you can expect to pay between $100 and $2,000 for long-distance towing, with the average cost being around $500.

• Additional Fees 

For certain tows, there may be additional fees required. For example, if you tow a car from one state to another, you must pay an out-of-state fee. In addition, if special services require, such as winching, you may need to pay an additional fee.

As you can see, the cost of towing a car depends on several factors. It’s important to be aware of the potential costs before you start any tow job to ensure you are prepared financially.

Calculate how much does it cost to tow a car: Car Towing Cost Calculator

Factors That Determine How Much Does It Cost to Tow a Car

If your car has broken down and requires a tow, you may wonder how much does cost to tow a car. 

The cost of towing a car will depend on various factors, such as the type of service, distance, the vehicle’s weight, condition, and the presence of any extra services. 

Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors.

• Type Of Service

The most important thing that determines the cost of car towing is the type of service you require. 

The most common type of service is basic roadside assistance, which typically involves towing the vehicle to a nearby repair shop or your home. 

If your car needs to be towed to a more distant location, such as another city, this will usually cost more.

• Distance

The cost of towing a car is also determined by the distance it needs to be towed. For example, if you’re calling a tow truck to take your vehicle a few blocks away, the cost will usually be less than if taken across town or to a distant location.

• Weight Of The Vehicle

The weight of a vehicle is another important factor in determining the cost of towing. The heavier the car, the more it will cost to tow it. This is because heavier vehicles require more power for the tow truck to move them.

• Condition Of The Vehicle

The vehicle’s condition is another factor that affects the cost of towing. If the vehicle is in good condition and does not require special attention, the cost of towing will be less. 

On the other hand, if the car is in poor condition or needs special attention, the cost of towing could be higher.

• Extras 

Extras can also have an effect on the cost of towing a car. If you require any additional services, such as off-loading or winching, the cost of the tow will usually be higher.

How To Save Money On Car Towing Your Car?

Fortunately, there are some ways to save money on car towing services. Here are four tips to help you save the next time you find yourself in need of towing services: 

• Shop Around

You can call the first tow truck service you find when you’re in a pinch. However, shopping for different towing services can help you find the best deal. 

Calling a few different companies can save you money and give you peace of mind knowing you got the best possible price. 

• Ask For Discounts 

Many tow truck companies offer discounts to customers who offer them repeat business. If you’re a regular customer, don’t hesitate to ask for a discount when you call for service. 

Additionally, some tow truck companies may offer discounts to customers who pay in cash or are military members of certain organizations.

• Negotiate The Price 

Many tow truck companies are willing to negotiate their price. If you can provide your own tow rope or set of jumper cables, you may get a lower rate. 

Additionally, if the distance of the tow is quite short, you can negotiate a lower price.

• Consider Alternatives 

You can find other alternatives if you’re in an area with plenty of tow truck competition. For instance, some tow truck services may offer flat-rate packages. 

Roadside assistance programs (such as AAA) include towing services, which may save you money in the long run. 

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How To Choose A Reliable Towing Service?

When choosing a tow truck company to tow your car, there are a few things you should look out for to ensure you get a reliable and cost-effective service. 

Here are some tips on choosing a reliable towing service and ensuring you don’t overpay for the job.

• Check Their Insurance 

Before you agree to let a towing company tow your car, make sure they are fully insured. This will protect you against any accidental damage during the towing process. 

Ensure you ask for a copy of their insurance certificate to check the details.

• Check Their Reviews

You can learn much about a towing company’s quality by reading its reviews online. Do a quick search online and look at their past customer reviews to get an idea of their level of service.

• Ask For References 

It’s always a good idea to ask for references from the towing company you are considering. 

Ask the company to provide you with three or four references so you can get an idea of how satisfied their customers are and how reliable the company is.

• Ask For A Detailed Estimate 

Before you agree to any towing service, ask for a detailed estimate of how much the job will cost. This will help you avoid any surprises later on, as you will know exactly how much the job will cost from the start.

Car Towing Safety Tips 

Safety is the number one priority when you need to tow a car. Knowing how to tow a vehicle safely can help prevent damages, injuries, and other costly repairs. 

To help you better understand the cost of towing a car, here are some of the most important car towing safety tips to keep in mind: 

• Secure The Vehicle Properly 

Before getting started, you’ll need to secure the vehicle properly to avoid damages and ensure the tow is successful. This means ensuring the vehicle is properly connected with the right equipment and secured onto the tow vehicle. 

Depending on the size and weight of the vehicle, you may need to use straps, chains, or other heavy-duty towing equipment. 

• Use The Right Equipment 

Using the right equipment is essential for towing a car safely. Ensure you have the necessary equipment for the vehicle you’re towing, such as tow bars, chains, straps, and other accessories. 

If you’re unsure what equipment you need, consult a qualified towing company for help. 

• Drive Carefully

When towing a car, it’s important to drive with caution. Make sure you keep the speed low, use your brake lights, and take extra care when turning corners. Pay attention to the road and other vehicles, and be prepared to stop if necessary. 

FAQs: How Much Does It Cost to Tow a Car

• How much does it cost to tow a car in Texas?

The cost of towing a car in Texas can vary depending on factors such as distance, the size of the vehicle, and the time of day. On average, the cost of towing a car in Texas can range from $75 to $150. However, some towing companies may charge more or less, so it is recommended to get a quote from a local towing service for an accurate estimate.

• How much is a tow truck UK?

Towing a car can cost anywhere between £1 – £3 per mile depending on where you’re hiring the tow truck from, and what company you choose.

• Can you tow a car with a rope?

Yes, a car can be towed with a rope. The towing vehicle should have a strong, secure hitch, and the rope should be made of a durable material such as nylon and have enough length to allow some slack. It is important to note that towing a car with a rope can be dangerous and potentially cause damage to both vehicles if not done properly, so it is recommended to consult with a professional towing service if possible.

• Is it cheaper to tow a car or drive it?

Whether it’s cheaper to tow a car or drive it depends on several factors such as the distance, the condition of the car, and the cost of towing. If the car is in good working condition and the distance is short, it may be cheaper to drive the car.

Final Thoughts: How Much Does It Cost to Tow a Car

Towing a car can be expensive, but it is a necessary expense if you have a car that needs to be towed. Properly researching towing services costs and knowing your limits are key to a successful and relatively inexpensive tow job. 

It is important to remember to never trust the lowest-priced tow service and always to confirm the credentials and licensing of the tow company before agreeing to their services. 

By doing your research, you can ensure that you are getting the most cost-effective tow job for your car. Ultimately, understanding how much does it cost to tow a car can help ensure that you remain safe and make responsible decisions.