Where to Get Cheap Car Towing Services?

Did you know that 1 in 3 American vehicle owners are affected by car breakdowns. Even a well-maintained vehicle is prone to breakdowns. The automobile is a complicated machine with a dizzying quantity of operation critical components. Anyone of which can be adversely affected by stray debris, bumps in the road, or even just the passage of time. Every driver dreads that moment. The car suddenly breaks down, the engine sputters, or you get a flat tire somewhere. And it always seems to happen far from home, doesn’t it? Now, you’re in a scramble, looking for a cheap car towing service near you that can alleviate your broken car without leaving you broke in the process.

If you’ve ever been in this situation, and especially if you haven’t yet, don’t worry. I’ve got your back. As a lifelong car enthusiast and roadside assistance advocate, I’ve got more than a few flat tires under my belt. Read on to see where exactly you can look for cheap car towing services without compromising the quality of your service.

The Best Places to Find Cheap Car Towing Services

When you’re stuck on the side of the road, it’s easy to panic and call the first tow truck company that pops up in a Google search. If they come up first in search queries, they must be good, right? Unfortunately, a little knowledge of search engine optimization doesn’t make a roadside assistance company reliable, but with a little know-how and a keen eye, you can find cheap car towing services that provide fine service for the bottom dollar. In order, consider the following:

1. Auto Insurance Providers with Towing Coverage

Chances are, you have auto insurance. After all, it’s only legally mandated in 49 out of 50 states and DC, so unless you live in New Hampshire, you must have auto insurance. Many auto insurance companies offer concierge for roadside assistance and towing services as an add-on to their policies. The first thing you should do when you need towing is check your coverage to see if your insurance includes 24-hour towing or roadside assistance. If you can leverage the benefits of your insurance plan, you won’t have to pay the extra out of pocket. 

You may be concerned about what happens to your insurance rates if you need towing. Don’t be. Generally, a call for roadside assistance does not smear your record as a driver; everyone breaks down sometimes. Of course, if this call for assistance is paired with an accident, that accident will affect your insurance rates if you are found at fault. Either way, that roadside assistance itself won’t affect your premiums, so make that concierge call ASAP.

 2. Membership-Based Roadside Assistance Programs

Okay, so maybe your insurance company doesn’t offer roadside assistance. That’s fine. You still have options. If you’ve prepared in advance, you may be a member of a roadside assistance program already. Organizations like AAA, Good Sam, and the DriveSmart Network offer cheap car tow service with added perks like locksmith services, battery jumps, tire changes, and other roadside necessities that can get you up and running on the road. DriveSmart, in particular, provides customized assistance, helping you save on emergency towing and more.

Like with insurance policy roadside assistance, membership organizations like DriveSmart rigorously research and compile a repository of roadside assistance and towing services in your area, creating a network of assistance that can help you no matter where you might be broken down at. Any service provider that is in your roadside assistance network will be able to come to your rescue at no upfront cost to you, and they can provide a vast array of services, from the obvious towing to more niche and immediate needs, like battery jumping.

3. Local Tow Truck Companies

No membership to a roadside assistance program? That’s fine too; though, now we are in the territory of upfront payment. From here on out, you will be paying out of pocket for any services that you need, no matter how big or how small.

On the cheaper end of things, you can find the small-name, local towing company. Big-name towing companies with networks of outposts around the US are usually burdened with the need to fund overhead for company organization. Due to this, these larger companies tend to charge hefty fees, and the service they provide is not guaranteed to be better for that price either. Small, local tow truck operators often offer more competitive prices, since they are competing locally for your dollar, and generally do not have the overhead required of larger companies.

Search online for cheap car towing service near you and compare prices before calling a service. Looking for local companies in your immediate vicinity should be your top priority.

4. Towing Services Through Auto Repair Shops

Sometimes, for you experienced drivers out there, you may have an inkling as to what problems your vehicle is suffering. If you know that your vehicle is going to be in need of serious repairs, consider contacting a local auto repair shop for help instead of going to a towing company first. Some repair shops provide towing services as part of their repair package. If your car needs immediate repairs, these businesses can tow your vehicle at a discounted rate or even free if you’re getting work done at their shop.

If you know that you are going to need repairs for a fact, shop around for nearby auto shops. See if you can get a quote for the repairs you need over the phone so that you can make informed decisions about where to go.

 5. Online Marketplaces and Towing Apps

Even if you are not a member of a roadside assistance program, that does not mean there are no ways to find well-established and trusted towing companies. Apps like Honk, Urgent.ly, and TowMyCar connect you with reliable towing services with upfront, transparent pricing. These platforms often partner with smaller providers, giving you access to cheap car towing services near you without hidden fees.

If you’re the indecisive type, this method is for you. The power to quickly compare nearby competitors is not to be underestimated. Make sure to check reviews of these companies online as well, once you feel close to making up your mind.

 6. Discount Towing Services

If you’re lucky, some companies offer promotional pricing. Occasionally, you may see bright banners on websites that read something like, like “cheap car towing services $9.95” or “cheap car towing service $20 deals”. Obviously, these discount services may be limited. Be sure to read the fine print—these low prices often cover only a short distance, with additional mileage fees that can rack up rapidly if you aren’t careful.

Not to be a downer, but unscrupulous companies look to prey on vulnerable drivers who are stuck in unknown territory, and may lay out predatory practices looking to make a quick buck. Defend yourself against these with research and logic. If it looks too good to be true, chances are it is.

 7. Credit Card Roadside Assistance Perks

Now, earlier I mentioned we would be done with free options. That was a bit of a lie, but I had a good reason: this last one is a bit unlikely.

Some credit card providers, such as Chase, American Express, and Capital One, offer complimentary or discounted roadside assistance, which includes towing among many other services. If you are fortunate enough to own such a premium credit card, check to see if you’re eligible for car towing services at no upfront cost. While this is rare, it can save you from having to pony up that extra buck.

Additional Roadside Assistance Services You May Need

Towing isn’t the only problem you might face on the road, but never fear. Towing companies frequently do so much more than towing. Many companies offer bundled services for roadside assistance, because not every emergency call needs a tow. If you are part of a roadside assistance plan, you can get access to free towing and all these other services as well, for low monthly pricing. Here’s what to look for when choosing your roadside assistance plan:

 1. Lockout Assistance

Have you ever been locked out of your car before? No? Just me? I know how it feels, and it is annoying. You’re constantly blaming and shaming yourself for every second you can’t get into your vehicle. Getting locked out of your car is frustrating, but many towing companies provide locksmith services at an affordable rate. Most roadside assistance plans even include lockout service for free. With lockout assistance, you’ll never have to worry about leaving your keys in your car. At least, not for too long.

 2. Jump Starts

A dead battery can arise from a number of different issues: faulty alternators, inability to hold charge due to wear, poor contacts, or maybe something as simple as leaving your headlights on overnight. Not to mention that a dead battery can leave you stranded at the worst times. Roadside assistance memberships and local tow truck services often offer jump-starts for a low fee or as part of a package deal. This fee is much much cheaper than towing, and is usually a preferred option when possible. With a jump start, you can get back on the road faster, or in the case of a more pressing malfunction, you can get to the nearest auto part store to have the faulty part replaced.

3. Mobile Tire Changes

Flat tires happen unexpectedly and for myriad uncontrollable reasons. I’ve run over my fair share of nails, rocks, and screw drivers, and that’s just the road debris. I won’t even count how many potholes I’ve hit. While I’m a skilled expert in the art of the spare, not everyone knows how to change a tire in their time of need. Many towing providers offer mobile tire changes to get you back on the road quickly. Just remember: spares tires are not meant to be driven as far or as hard as your normal tires, so make sure to drive carefully and locate a tire shop to have your tires swapped as soon as you can.

 Other Tips to Get the Cheapest Car Towing Service

Finding cheap car towing services is one thing, but knowing how to keep costs down is another. Here are some money-saving tips:

 1. Compare Prices Before You Need a Tow

Do some research now and keep a list of towing companies with reasonable rates. Knowing where to call ahead of time will save you from overpaying in an emergency.

 2. Ask About Flat-Rate vs. Per-Mile Pricing

Some towing companies charge a base rate plus per-mile fees, while others offer a flat rate. Depending on the distance, one option might be cheaper than the other.

 3. Check for Membership Discounts

AAA, DriveSmart, and other roadside assistance programs offer discounts on towing services. Even warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam’s Club may have partnerships for cheap car towing service near me.

 4. Use Your Warranty or Car Manufacturer’s Roadside Assistance

If your car is still under warranty, your dealership may provide free or discounted towing. Brands like Ford, Honda, and Toyota offer roadside assistance programs for newer vehicles.

 5. Avoid Peak Hours and Holidays

Towing rates can skyrocket during busy periods, like weekends and holidays. If possible, schedule your tow during off-peak hours to save money.

 6. Read Reviews and Avoid Scams

Not all cheap car towing services are created equal. Check reviews, ask for a price quote upfront, and avoid companies with hidden fees or questionable reputations.

 Why DriveSmart is Your Best Choice for Cheap Towing Services

• At DriveSmart, we understand that finding cheap car towing services can be stressful. That’s why we offer:
  Affordable Membership Plans – Get access to discounted roadside assistance, including cheap car towing service $9.95 options.24/7
• Assistance – No matter where or when you need a tow, we’re here to help.
• Exclusive Deals & Offers – Members unlock the best rates on towing, repairs, and more.
• Personalized Service – We work with trusted providers to ensure high-quality, low-cost towing near you.
• Don’t wait until you’re stranded—be proactive and save money with DriveSmart!

DriveSmart is Here to Help

Roadside assistance is more than just towing. It’s about freedom, safety, and the confidence to enjoy the open road. With the DriveSmart, you gain access to premium roadside services, personalized support, and exclusive perks tailored for car enthusiasts like you. Our powerful app connects you with technicians faster, so help is always just a tap away when you need it most.

Ready to drive smarter?

Join DriveSmart today and enjoy peace of mind on every journey. Whether you’re a safe driver on a budget or need comprehensive coverage, we’ve got a plan that fits your lifestyle.

Life on the road can be unpredictable. Anything can happen when you least expect it. But with the DriveSmart, you’re always prepared. Unlock towing services, exclusive offers, and personalized assistance that keeps you moving forward. Sign up now and let DriveSmart keep your wheels turning with confidence.

Sign up now and unlock exclusive discounts on towing, repairs, and more!