It sucks when your car breaks down in the middle of nowhere, right? Well, if you have been in this situation, you know how pathetic the feeling is. In such a situation, the first question that’ll pop up in your mind is, how much does Towing Car Cost?
Towing a car requires professional service; you can not afford to rely on random roadside assistance. Whether the reason is a dead battery, a flat tire, or a faulty engine, towing a car is never an easy job.
But let’s get it straight! Knowing how much it costs to tow a car in 2025 can save you from stress and spending extra money.
Let’s break down
- The real tow service cost
- What affects towing rates
- Sneaky fees to watch out for
- And some smart tips to help you avoid overpaying
So buckle up—let’s understand exactly how much it costs to tow a car without paying extra.
Average Towing A Car Cost in 2025
So, how much does towing a car cost in 2025?
On average, towing a car ranges from $75 to $250, but there can be several factors that determine the cost.
But most towing companies charge a base fee of around $50 to $125 just to hook the car for towing. And on average, the cost might be $2 to $7 per mile. To have a better understanding of the pricing, here’s a complete breakdown.
| Type of Towing | Estimated Cost |
| Local Tow (Up to 5 Miles) | $100–$200 |
| Medium Distance Tow (Up to 20 Miles) | $200–$500+ |
| Long Distance Tow (Over 50 Miles) | $100–$300 |
| Flatbed Tow | $75–$150 |
| Motorcycle Tow | Add $25–$100. |
| After-Hours or Emergency Tow | Add $25 – $100 |
As mentioned above, the towing rates vary based on various factors. Let’s break down all the factors to have a better understanding.
Factors That Impact The Cost of Towing a Car
When figuring out how much a towing fee is, keep in mind that the price may fluctuate. You may not always get the same price every time. Here are some factors that can impact the cost of towing.
Distance
Distance is the major factor that influences the cost of towing. The longer the distance is, the higher the cost will be. However, you’ll find many towing companies having a fixed price list. Always ask for the price before you agree to the towing service.
Type of Vehicle
Larger or heavier vehicles like trucks, vans, and SUVs often cost more as compared to smaller cars. A luxury or specialty car may require extra care or a flatbed tow, which increases the cost. Look for vehicle towing services that are both efficient and cost-effective to ensure a smooth towing process.
Time of Day
Need a tow in the middle of the night? Or on a holiday? Expect an extra fee for after-hours service. Some companies charge a premium of $25 to $100, depending on timing.
Situational Challenges
Suppose your car is stuck in mud or snow; then the towing cost will be slightly higher. Recovery or winching services can add $50 to $150 on top of the regular towing fee.
Type of Tow Truck
When it comes to towing, you can consider different types of tow trucks. Most commonly, tow trucks such as flatbed, hook and chain, and wheel lift are best for towing. Flatbed tows usually cost more because of the tools involved.
How to Estimate Your Towing Price?
Estimating the towing price beforehand will help you avoid scams. Get a rough idea about how much it costs to tow a car to avoid getting charged extra. Here’s how you can estimate it.
- Start with a hookup fee of around $75–$100.
- Add $3–$6 per mile for the distance.
- Add any extras (night fee, flatbed, recovery service).
For instance, if you need a flatbed tow for your SUV for 15 miles on a Sunday night, you could end up paying:
- Hook-up: $100
- Mileage: 15 miles × $5 = $75
- Flatbed premium: $50
- After-hours fee: $40
- Total: $265
Towing & Roadside Assistance Memberships: Worth It?
You might be thinking, is there a way to avoid paying $200+ every time you require towing a car with a truck?
Yes, if you drive often or travel extra miles, having a roadside assistance plan can be more cost-effective. Here are a few popular options you can explore:
- AAA—Plans start around $64/year and cover 5–7 miles of free towing (higher plans offer up to 100 miles).
- Insurance Add-ons—Many insurance providers like GEICO, Progressive, and Allstate offer towing coverage as an add-on for as little as $10–$25 a year.
- Credit Cards—Some premium cards include roadside assistance as a perk.
It might not be for everyone, but for peace of mind and lower tow service costs over time, it’s definitely something to consider.
Hidden Towing Fees to Look Out For!
Not all towing companies are upfront with their pricing. Before agreeing to anything, always ask about potential extra charges. Here are a few hidden fees that can sneak up on you:
- Mileage beyond the initial included amount
- Storage fees (if your car is towed to a yard and left overnight)
- Admin fees or release fees
- Environmental or fuel surcharges
A simple phone call to clarify these can save you from all the stress.
Tips to Save on Towing in 2025
Okay, so now you’ve got a complete understanding of how much to tow a car — but how can you spend less when the time comes?
Here are a few pro tips:
- Get Quotes
Don’t just go with the first tow truck that shows up. Call around — pricing can vary significantly between companies in the same area.
- Use Your Insurance
If your insurance policy includes roadside assistance or towing coverage, use it! You’ve already paid for it.
- Know Your Limits
Some companies offer free towing within a 5- to 10-mile radius if you’re a regular customer. Know what your dealership, insurance, or roadside plan covers.
- Avoid Rush Hours
Towing during rush hour, weekends, or holidays often comes with surge pricing. If it’s not an emergency, wait for regular hours.
- Download Towing Apps
Towing doesn’t have to be complicated. You can look for
Apps will help you compare towing rates in real time. Explore apps like Towbook or HONK to get upfront pricing before you sign up for the service.
Bottom Line
So, now that you know how much towing a car costs in 2025, it will help you avoid unnecessarily high towing costs. As a vehicle owner, you’ll never know when you’ll end up in a tough situation.
However, knowing how much a towing fee is will save you from more trouble. Towing doesn’t have to be a hassle if you know where to find a professional and affordable price.
Stay safe and informed — because you never know when you’ll end up needing towing service.
