The cost of towing a car depends on several factors, including distance, vehicle type, and time of day. Additionally, whether you have insurance coverage or roadside assistance can significantly affect out-of-pocket costs. Here’s a comprehensive look at typical costs for towing with and without insurance, plus options to reduce expenses through roadside plans and credit card benefits.
Typical Towing Costs (Without Insurance)
| Cost Component | Average Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Base Hook-Up Fee | $50 – $100 | This is a one-time fee for attaching the vehicle to the tow truck. |
| Per-Mile Charge | $2 – $7 per mile | Rates vary based on the distance; urban areas often charge more per mile. |
| Additional Fees (After Hours) | $150 – $200 | Tows outside regular business hours may incur extra fees |
Most drivers can expect to pay around $100 to $250 for a standard tow of up to 20 miles, with longer distances potentially increasing the total to $500 or more depending on the per-mile charge and additional fees (like those for complex tows or flatbeds).
Towing Costs with Insurance
Many auto insurance policies offer optional roadside assistance, which can cover towing under certain conditions:
- Insurance Roadside Assistance: For an annual fee of about $30 to $60, many insurance providers cover a limited towing distance (usually 15-20 miles) at no extra charge. After the included distance, a per-mile rate may apply, typically at a lower negotiated rate through the insurer’s network.
- Collision and Comprehensive Coverage: If your vehicle requires towing due to an accident covered by your insurance, towing costs may be included. However, some insurers may still charge a deductible depending on your policy.
- Credit Card Benefits: Some credit cards offer roadside assistance, which may include towing. For instance, Visa Roadside Dispatch offers a flat rate for short tows and discounts for longer distances. It’s helpful to check your card’s benefits to see if towing is covered.
Roadside Assistance Programs
Auto clubs like AAA offer towing benefits as part of their membership plans, with costs ranging from $75 to $125 annually for basic plans. AAA, for example, includes towing up to 7 miles on basic plans, while premium members can receive towing coverage up to 100 miles or more at no additional cost beyond the membership (Mechanic Base).
Towing costs without insurance typically fall between $100 and $250 but can be higher based on distance and additional fees. For those who experience frequent breakdowns or travel extensively, insurance-based roadside assistance or an auto club membership can provide substantial savings over time. For more details on towing coverage options, you can check with your insurance provider or resources like Policygenius and NerdWallet.
