Getting a car towed away typically costs $75 to $250 for a local tow, although the final price can be higher depending on the towing distance, vehicle size, location, time of service, and type of tow truck required. Current towing guides commonly report a base hookup fee of about $35 to $150, plus approximately $2.50 to $7 per mile.
If you have roadside assistance through AAA, insurance, a vehicle warranty, or another membership, some or all of the towing cost may already be covered.
Average Cost to Tow a Car
The price of towing varies considerably by location and circumstances. A short local tow is usually much less expensive than a long-distance tow.
| Type of Tow | Typical Cost |
| Short local tow | $75–$150 |
| 5–10 mile tow | $100–$200 |
| 10–25 mile tow | $150–$300 |
| 25+ mile tow | $200–$500+ |
| Long-distance towing | $500+ |
| Winching or difficult recovery | $100–$300+ |
These are general estimates rather than guaranteed prices. Some towing companies use flat local rates, while others charge a hookup fee plus mileage.
What Is Included in a Basic Towing Fee?
A standard towing charge may include several components:
Hookup or Service Fee
This is the initial charge for dispatching the tow truck, arriving at your location, and connecting your vehicle. Depending on the provider and location, the base fee may be around $35 to $150.
Mileage Charge
Some companies charge separately for the distance your vehicle is transported. Rates commonly fall within a few dollars per mile, although local pricing can vary significantly.
Tow Truck Type
A standard wheel-lift truck may be appropriate for many vehicles. A flatbed may be recommended for certain vehicles, damaged cars, AWD vehicles, luxury cars, or situations where all four wheels need to remain off the road.
Additional Labor
Recovery, winching, difficult vehicle access, accident cleanup, or loading a severely damaged vehicle can increase the final bill.
What Makes a Car Tow More Expensive?
Several factors can affect how much you pay.
Distance: The farther the vehicle must travel, the more you may pay.
Vehicle size: Large SUVs, trucks, vans, and specialty vehicles may require different equipment.
Vehicle condition: A normally parked vehicle is easier to load than one involved in an accident or stuck in mud, snow, or a ditch.
Time of day: Emergency, overnight, holiday, or high-demand service may cost more depending on the company.
Location: Rates can be higher in major cities, remote areas, or locations where fewer towing providers are available.
Storage: If the vehicle is taken to an impound or storage facility, daily storage fees can add substantially to the total cost.
Does Insurance Cover the Cost of Towing?
Your auto insurance may cover towing if you have roadside assistance coverage. Coverage limits vary by policy, and some insurers pay up to a specific dollar amount while others cover towing to the nearest qualified repair facility.
Before paying out of pocket, check your insurance policy or contact your insurer. You may also have roadside assistance through a vehicle warranty, dealership, credit card, or another membership.
How Much Does AAA Charge to Tow a Car?
AAA generally includes towing as part of its roadside assistance membership rather than charging members the standard retail towing price for covered mileage.
For example, one current AAA region lists Classic at $64.99 per year with 5 miles of towing, Plus at $99.99 with up to 100 miles, and Premier at $124.99 with one 200-mile tow and remaining tows up to 100 miles. Benefits and prices can vary by AAA club and location.
If you exceed your membership’s towing limit, additional mileage can be charged by the service provider.
How Can You Get a Cheaper Tow?
If the quoted towing price seems high, you have several options.
- Ask for the complete price upfront. Find out whether the quote includes hookup, mileage, equipment, and additional fees.
- Compare local towing companies. Get two or three quotes when the situation is not an emergency.
- Choose a closer repair shop. A shorter tow can significantly reduce mileage charges.
- Check roadside assistance coverage. Your insurance or membership may cover some or all of the service.
- Ask about flat-rate towing. Some companies offer fixed prices for common local distances.
- Ask whether payment options are available. Some providers may offer payment arrangements depending on the circumstances.
Don’t choose a provider based only on the lowest advertised price. Confirm the final estimated cost before allowing the vehicle to be transported.
How Much Does It Cost to Tow a Car After an Accident?
Accident towing can cost more than an ordinary breakdown tow because the vehicle may require specialized equipment or recovery work.
A basic tow may still fall within the normal local range, but winching, debris removal, difficult loading, police-directed towing, or vehicle storage can increase the bill.
If your car was involved in an accident, ask where it is being taken and whether storage charges will begin immediately. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to determine whether towing and storage are covered.
Can a Tow Company Charge by the Mile?
Yes. Many towing companies use a pricing structure that combines a base or hookup charge with a mileage rate. Other companies may offer a flat rate for local towing.
Because pricing isn’t standardized nationwide, ask:
- What is the hookup fee?
- How much is charged per mile?
- Is mileage calculated from the tow truck’s location or from my vehicle?
- Are there after-hours fees?
- Is loading included?
- Are there storage or administrative fees?
- What will the estimated total be?
Getting these details before service can help prevent surprises on the final invoice.
Is $200 Expensive for a Tow?
Not necessarily. A $200 tow can be reasonable for a moderate-distance tow, an emergency service call, or a vehicle requiring additional equipment.
For example, a short and simple local tow might cost closer to $75–$150, while a longer tow can reach $200 or more. Current industry estimates place many local tows in the $75–$250 range.
The most important factor is what services are included in the quoted price.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a 10-mile tow usually cost?
A 10-mile tow commonly falls somewhere around $100–$200, but pricing depends on the base fee, mileage rate, location, vehicle, and time of service.
How much does a tow truck cost for 5 miles?
A short 5-mile tow may cost approximately $75–$150. AAA also notes that a 5-mile tow can be included with certain membership levels, depending on the member’s plan and region.
Why do towing companies charge so much?
Towing prices cover more than the miles traveled. They can include dispatch, truck operation, driver labor, insurance, equipment, fuel, maintenance, loading, and specialized recovery work.
Can I negotiate a towing price?
You can ask whether the company offers a flat local rate, shorter-distance option, or other lower-cost alternative. Always agree on the expected price before authorizing the tow.
Does roadside assistance pay for towing?
Many roadside assistance plans include towing, but the distance and number of covered service calls depend on the plan. AAA, for example, provides different towing limits for its membership levels.
What is the cheapest way to get a car towed?
The cheapest option may be an existing roadside assistance benefit through your insurance, membership, warranty, or another service. If you’re paying yourself, compare local towing quotes and ask about flat-rate pricing and the closest suitable destination.
Conclusion
When your vehicle won’t start, has been damaged, or simply needs to be moved, getting a clear towing price before service can help you avoid unexpected costs. Towing Recovery Rebuilding Assistance Services can help with towing, roadside assistance, and vehicle recovery.
Call 630-200-2731 when you need dependable towing near me, towing in Naperville, tow trucks, tow trucks near me, or a towing service near me. Whether you’re dealing with a breakdown, accident, disabled vehicle, or emergency roadside situation, getting professional help can make moving your vehicle safer and easier.
