When your car breaks down, towing costs can add up fast. Finding affordable options can save you money during an already stressful time. Let’s explore the cheapest ways to tow a car without breaking the bank.
Use Your Insurance Coverage
The cheapest way to tow a car is often through your existing car insurance. Many policies include roadside assistance. This coverage typically costs only $5-$15 per month as an add-on. When you need a tow, you’ll pay nothing at the time of service.
Check your insurance policy right now. You might already have towing coverage without knowing it. One quick call to your insurance company could save you $100 or more.
Join a Roadside Assistance Program
AAA and similar clubs offer great value for regular drivers. Membership costs around $60-$100 per year. This usually includes several free tows within a certain distance. Some programs allow tows up to 100 miles.
Other affordable roadside assistance programs include:
- Good Sam ($49.95/year)
- AARP Roadside Assistance ($58/year)
- Better World Club ($58.95/year)
These programs often pay for themselves with just one tow.
Credit Card Benefits
Many credit cards include free roadside assistance. American Express, Chase, and Discover often offer this perk. The service typically covers basic towing up to 5-10 miles.
Call the number on the back of your card before paying for a tow. You might have this benefit without realizing it.
Ask for Flat-Rate Towing
When calling towing companies directly, always ask for their flat rate. This is usually cheaper than paying per mile. Local tows under 5-10 miles often have set prices around $75-$125.
Be sure to ask about all fees upfront. Some companies add extra charges that can surprise you later.
Use Towing Apps
Apps like Honk and Urgently connect you with nearby towing services. These apps often offer competitive rates and upfront pricing. You can compare prices before choosing a service.
The convenience of these apps can save both money and time when you’re stranded.
Borrow a Tow Dolly
If you have access to a truck or SUV with towing capacity, renting a tow dolly is cheap. U-Haul rents tow dollies for around $25-$35 per day. This option works well for shorter distances.
Remember that you’ll need a vehicle capable of towing and some knowledge of how to secure the car properly.
Ask Friends with Towing Capacity
Do you know someone with a truck and tow hitch? Many pickup trucks and larger SUVs can tow a car. A friend might help you for the cost of gas or a nice dinner.
This option costs very little but depends on having friends with the right equipment and know-how.
Compare Local Towing Companies
Prices vary widely between towing companies. Call at least three services to compare rates. Local, independent towers often charge less than national chains.
Ask specifically about:
- Base hook-up fee
- Per-mile charges
- Any additional fees
Plan Ahead for Savings
The best way to save on towing is to plan before you need it. Consider these options:
- Add roadside assistance to your insurance now
- Join a roadside assistance club during a membership sale
- Research local towing companies and save their numbers
Emergency towing always costs more than planned service.
When to Skip the Cheapest Option
Sometimes the cheapest option isn’t the best choice. If your car is very valuable or has special towing needs, paying more for professional service makes sense. Improper towing can cause expensive damage to your vehicle.
Safety matters more than saving a few dollars. Never compromise on safety to save money.
Conclusion
The cheapest way to tow a car is usually through existing benefits you may already have. Check your insurance policy and credit card perks first. For regular drivers, roadside assistance memberships offer the best long-term value.
