how much to get my car towed

[IvanLynn]

The average cost to tow a car is typically between $75 and $125 for a local tow (under 10 miles). However, the final price can vary dramatically, from as low as $50 for a short-distance tow with a basic service provider to over $200 for longer distances, heavy-duty vehicles, or emergency situations like towing from a highway after an accident. The primary factors influencing the cost are the towing distance, the time of service, the vehicle's type and condition, and your membership in an auto club like AAA.

Key Factors That Determine Your Towing Cost:

• Base Hook-Up Fee & Distance: Most companies charge a base fee (often $50-$80) just to hook up your vehicle, plus a per-mile charge (typically $3-$10) after the first few included miles.
• Vehicle Type: A standard sedan is the cheapest to tow. Heavy-duty vehicles like trucks, SUVs, or RVs require specialized equipment and cost more.
• Time of Service: A routine tow during standard business hours is the most affordable. After-hours, weekend, or holiday service will incur premium charges. An emergency tow from a busy highway is often the most expensive due to the complexity and risk involved.
• Vehicle Condition: If your car is inoperable (a "non-rollable" vehicle), it may require a winch or additional labor, adding to the cost. A car with four flat tires or serious damage is more complex to handle than one that can be rolled onto the truck.

Towing Scenario	Estimated Cost Range	Key Cost Drivers
Local Tow (5-10 miles)	$75 - $125	Base hook-up fee, standard per-mile rate
Long-Distance Tow (40 miles)	$175 - $300	High per-mile charges accumulate quickly
Heavy-Duty Tow (Full-size SUV)	$125 - $250	Requires a larger wheel-lift or flatbed truck
Emergency Highway Tow	$150 - $400+	Complexity, traffic control, premium service fees
After-Hours/Weekend Tow	$100 - $200+	Service premium on top of base rate
Winching Service (added)	$50 - $100	For vehicles stuck in ditches or unable to roll

The best way to avoid surprises is to always ask for a total price quote over the phone before authorizing the tow. If you have roadside assistance coverage through your car insurance, auto club, or even your credit card, the tow could be free or require only a small copay. Check your policy details before calling a tow truck.

[VanStella]

Call around. Don't just pick the first name in a Google search. I got a quote for $150 from one company, but a local guy did it for $85. Always ask if that's the total, out-the-door price. They sometimes hide extra fees for "after-hours" or "heavy vehicle" that they only mention when you're paying. Also, check your car insurance app—you might already have towing coverage and not even know it.

[McEmilia]

I've found it really depends on why you need the tow. A simple tow from your home to a shop a few miles away is one thing. But if you're stranded on the interstate at night, that's a different ballgame. The urgency and location play a huge role. Police-contracted tows from accident scenes can also have set, often higher, rates. My advice is to be clear about the exact situation when you call for a quote.