Complete Guide to Towing Costs in Montreal (2026 Updated)

Complete Guide to Towing Costs in Montreal (2026 Updated)

When your car breaks down or you’re involved in an accident, one of the first questions that crosses your mind is: how much is this going to cost? Towing prices can feel like a mystery, especially when you’re stressed and stranded. The good news is that understanding towing costs doesn’t have to be complicated, and knowing what to expect helps you make informed decisions when you need help most.

In Montreal, towing costs vary based on several factors including distance, vehicle type, time of day, and the specific service required. While some companies hide fees or charge unexpected extras, transparent pricing is becoming the standard that drivers expect and deserve. This guide breaks down exactly what you’ll pay for towing services in Montreal in 2026, what factors affect pricing, and how to avoid overcharges.

Whether you need emergency breakdown assistance or are planning ahead for a long-distance vehicle transport, this comprehensive pricing guide gives you the real numbers. And if you need immediate help, Montreal Towing provides upfront pricing with no hidden fees at 514-483-6944.

Average Towing Costs in Montreal (2026 Rates)

Let’s start with the numbers you actually want to know. Here’s what towing services typically cost in Montreal in 2026.

Standard towing cost breakdown:

• Base hookup fee: $80-$120 (covers dispatch, equipment setup, and first 5-7 km)
• Per-kilometer rate: $3-$5/km after the included distance
• Average local tow (within Montreal): $150-$200
• Flatbed towing: $180-$250 (premium service for AWD, luxury, or low-clearance vehicles)
• Heavy-duty towing: $300-$800+ (trucks, RVs, buses, commercial vehicles)
• Motorcycle towing: $120-$180

Typical cost examples in Montreal:

• Breakdown tow from Plateau-Mont-Royal to a mechanic in Verdun (12 km): $150-$175
• Accident tow from Highway 40 to body shop (20 km): $180-$220 (often insurance-covered)
• Long-distance tow from Montreal to Quebec City (250 km): $850-$1,250
• Stuck vehicle winching in parking lot: $150-$200
• Flatbed transport from Old Montreal to Laval (35 km): $220-$280

Time-of-day pricing:

• Business hours (Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm): Standard rates
• Evenings and weekends: May include 10-20% premium
• Late night (midnight-6am): May include 20-30% premium
• Holidays: May include 25-50% premium

At Montreal Towing, we believe in transparent pricing. When you call 514-483-6944, we provide an exact quote before dispatching based on your location, vehicle type, and service needs. No surprises, no hidden fees.

What You’re Actually Paying For

Understanding what goes into towing costs helps you appreciate why professional service has value and why “cheap” isn’t always better.

24/7 availability and rapid dispatch:

Towing companies maintain round-the-clock dispatch centers with trained operators ready to respond to your emergency at any hour, including holidays and severe weather. This means paying staff salaries, maintaining communication systems, and keeping trucks fueled and ready to roll even during slow periods.

Professional equipment investment:

A single tow truck costs $75,000-$150,000 for a standard wheel-lift truck, and $150,000-$250,000+ for a flatbed or heavy-duty wrecker. This equipment requires regular maintenance, fuel, insurance, and eventual replacement. Each truck also carries specialized tools, safety equipment, and recovery gear worth thousands of dollars.

Trained, licensed operators:

Professional tow truck operators undergo extensive training in vehicle recovery, safe towing practices, traffic safety, and customer service. They need special licensing, clean driving records, and ongoing education to stay current with new vehicle technologies and recovery techniques.

Insurance and liability coverage:

Towing companies carry substantial insurance policies to protect your vehicle while in their care. This includes cargo insurance (covering your vehicle), liability insurance (protecting against damage to other property), and workers’ compensation. Insurance costs for towing companies are significant, especially for heavy-duty operations.

Fuel and operational costs:

Tow trucks consume significant fuel, especially heavy-duty models. In Montreal’s winter, they idle to stay warm and ready. Add maintenance, tire replacement, repairs, and garage space, and operational costs are substantial.

Response time guarantees:

Fast response requires maintaining multiple trucks positioned throughout Montreal. This means more vehicles, more drivers, and higher overhead but it also means you’re not waiting hours for help when you’re stranded.

When you pay for professional towing, you’re paying for expertise, safety, equipment, and peace of mind. Our 24-hour service delivers all of this every time you call.

Breakdown Towing vs Emergency vs Accident Towing Costs

Not all towing situations are priced the same. Here’s how different scenarios affect costs.

Standard breakdown towing ($150-$200):

This is the most common scenario: your car won’t start, has mechanical failure, or needs to get to a mechanic during normal business hours. Standard rates apply, and you’ll typically pay out of pocket unless you have roadside assistance coverage. Distance within Montreal usually ranges from 5-20 km, keeping costs in the $150-$200 range.

Our breakdown towing service handles these situations daily with transparent pricing and professional care.

Emergency towing ($180-$250+):

Emergency situations include vehicles blocking traffic, dangerous highway breakdowns, or urgent situations requiring immediate response. These may incur premium rates due to the urgency, especially during peak hours or bad weather. However, the faster response time and priority dispatch are worth the extra cost when safety is at stake.

Accident towing (Insurance-billed, $0 upfront):

If you’re involved in a collision and have collision coverage on your insurance policy, towing from the accident scene to a body shop or storage facility is typically covered with no deductible. Insurance companies work directly with towing services, billing them for the tow. You won’t pay anything upfront, and the tow company handles all paperwork.

We offer insurance-approved accident towing with direct billing, so you don’t need to worry about payment during an already stressful situation.

Long-distance towing ($250-$500+):

When you need your vehicle transported beyond Montreal to another city or province, costs increase significantly based on distance. For example, towing to Ottawa (200 km) might cost $700-$900, while towing to Toronto (540 km) could be $1,500-$2,000+. For very long distances, consider auto transport services which may be more economical.

Our long-distance towing provides safe transport throughout Quebec and beyond with clear per-kilometer pricing.

Different Service Types and Their Costs

The type of towing equipment needed significantly affects pricing.

Flatbed Towing ($180-$250)

Flatbed towing is the premium option where your entire vehicle is loaded onto a flat platform with all wheels off the ground. This is the safest method for:

• All-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles (towing with wheels on ground damages drivetrain)
• Rear-wheel drive vehicles (avoids transmission damage)
• Low-clearance sports cars or luxury vehicles
• Vehicles with significant body damage
• Classic or high-value cars requiring maximum protection
• Motorcycles and scooters

Flatbeds cost more because the equipment is more expensive, takes longer to load, and can only transport one vehicle at a time. However, the protection they provide for your vehicle is worth the premium.

Learn more about our flatbed towing service and when it’s recommended.

Wheel-Lift Towing ($150-$200)

Wheel-lift towing is the standard method for most front-wheel drive cars and light trucks. A metal yoke lifts either the front or rear wheels off the ground while the other wheels roll. This is faster than flatbed loading and works well for standard breakdowns.

Wheel-lift is appropriate for:

• Front-wheel drive vehicles (lift rear wheels)
• Standard sedans and compact cars
• Short to medium distance tows
• Non-accident situations where the vehicle is intact

This is the most economical towing option for appropriate vehicles.

Heavy-Duty Towing ($300-$800+)

Heavy-duty towing is required for larger vehicles and equipment:

• Commercial trucks and delivery vehicles
• RVs and motorhomes
• Buses and coaches
• Construction equipment
• Vehicles stuck in ditches or requiring winching from difficult angles

Heavy-duty trucks have massive winches, rotators, and specialized equipment. They require specially trained operators and cost significantly more to operate. Pricing varies greatly based on vehicle weight, complexity, and recovery difficulty.

Our heavy-duty towing team handles commercial and oversized vehicles with professional equipment and expertise.

Motorcycle Towing ($120-$180)

Motorcycles require special handling to avoid damage. Most are transported on flatbed trucks with proper tie-downs and wheel chocks. Some tow companies use specialized motorcycle trailers.

Motorcycle towing costs less than full-size vehicles due to size and weight, but still requires professional equipment to prevent scratches, tip-overs, or mechanical damage.

We offer dedicated motorcycle towing with experienced handlers who know how to secure bikes safely.

Long Distance Towing (Variable by km)

For distances over 50 km, expect to pay base hookup plus $3-$5 per kilometer. Some companies offer flat-rate pricing for common routes (Montreal to Quebec City, Montreal to Ottawa, etc.).

Always get a quote before authorizing long-distance tows, and consider whether auto transport services might be more economical for distances over 500 km.

Additional Roadside Services and Costs

Many towing companies also provide roadside assistance services that don’t require towing. These are typically more affordable than full tows.

• Battery boost/jump start: $99-$125 (get your car started without towing)
• Flat tire change: $80-$120 (we install your spare tire on-site)
• Fuel delivery: $60-$100 plus cost of fuel (we bring gas to you)
• Winching and recovery: $150-$300 (pull stuck vehicles from snow, mud, or ditches)
• Car unlocking service: $75-$125 (locked keys in car, we unlock without damage)

Often, roadside assistance can get you back on the road without needing a tow, saving you money. When you call 514-483-6944, we assess your situation and recommend the most cost-effective solution.

Explore all our roadside assistance services including battery boost, tire changes, winching, and car unlocking.

Why Some Companies Charge More

Not all towing services are priced the same. Here’s what affects pricing beyond just distance.

Equipment quality and maintenance:

Companies investing in newer trucks, better equipment, and regular maintenance provide more reliable service with less risk of delays or secondary breakdowns. This costs more to maintain but means you’re not left waiting when their truck breaks down mid-tow.

Response time guarantees:

Fast response requires positioning trucks throughout the service area and maintaining adequate staff. Companies promising 30-minute response times have higher overhead but deliver when you need help urgently.

Insurance and certifications:

Fully insured, licensed, and certified operators cost more but protect you from liability if something goes wrong. Cheaper services sometimes cut corners on insurance, leaving you vulnerable if your vehicle is damaged during towing.

Damage-free guarantees:

Companies guaranteeing no damage to your vehicle during towing carry proper insurance and train operators extensively. This costs more but gives you confidence your car will arrive safely.

Customer service and reputation:

Reputable companies invest in training, professional appearance, clean trucks, and courteous service. You’re paying slightly more for a better experience during an already stressful situation.

Transparent pricing vs hidden fees:

Ironically, companies with transparent upfront pricing often end up costing less than “cheap” services that add hidden fees after the fact. Always ask for a complete quote before authorizing service.

How to Avoid Overcharging

Protect yourself from predatory towing practices and unexpected fees with these strategies.

Always get a quote before service:

Never authorize a tow without knowing the cost. Reputable companies provide upfront quotes including all fees. If a tow truck driver can’t or won’t quote a price, refuse the service and call someone else.

Understand what’s included in the quote:

Ask if the quoted price includes the base hookup fee, per-kilometer charges, and any potential surcharges. Clarify whether taxes are included. Get it in writing via text or email if possible.

Red flags for predatory towing:

• Refusing to provide upfront pricing
• Pressuring you to authorize towing immediately
• Adding fees after the tow is complete that weren’t mentioned
• Demanding cash-only payment
• Towing your car without your authorization (except for illegal parking enforcement)
• Taking your car to a specific shop you didn’t request
• Charging storage fees before you’ve had reasonable time to retrieve your vehicle

Know your rights in Montreal:

In Quebec, you have the right to choose which towing company to call (except when police direct traffic control). You can choose where your vehicle is towed (your mechanic of choice, not the tow company’s partner shop). You have the right to transparent pricing and itemized invoices.

When insurance covers costs:

If you’re in an accident and have collision coverage, towing is typically covered. If you have roadside assistance on your policy or through CAA, breakdown towing may be covered up to certain limits. Always check your coverage and provide insurance information to the tow operator.

Get written estimates:

Request a written estimate or confirmation via text/email before authorizing service. This protects you from dispute later if the final bill doesn’t match the quoted price.

Does Insurance Cover Towing Costs?

Understanding your insurance coverage can save you significant money on towing.

Collision coverage and accident towing:

If you have collision coverage (protection for damage to your vehicle in an accident), towing from the accident scene to a repair facility is typically covered with no deductible. This applies whether you’re at fault or not. The insurance company bills the towing company directly, so you pay nothing upfront.

Roadside assistance add-ons:

Many insurance companies offer optional roadside assistance coverage for $25-$50 per year. This typically includes towing up to a certain distance (often 100 km), battery boosts, tire changes, fuel delivery, and lockout service. Check your policy to see if you have this coverage and what limits apply.

CAA and similar memberships:

CAA (Canadian Automobile Association) memberships provide roadside assistance including towing. Basic memberships typically cover towing up to 5 km, while premium memberships cover 200+ km. If you travel frequently or have an older vehicle, CAA membership can pay for itself with a single tow.

Credit card benefits:

Some premium credit cards (especially travel or auto-focused cards) include complimentary roadside assistance when you use the card to pay for vehicle expenses. Check your credit card benefits to see if you’re already covered.

What’s typically NOT covered:

• Towing due to running out of gas (some plans exclude this)
• Towing from your driveway to a shop for routine repairs
• Long-distance towing beyond policy limits
• Storage fees at tow yards
• Towing for vehicles you don’t own (rentals may or may not be covered)

If you have coverage, always provide your policy information to the towing company so they can bill directly. We work with all major insurance providers and handle the paperwork for you. Learn more about our insurance towing services.

Affordable Towing Options in Montreal

You don’t have to sacrifice quality to get fair pricing. Here’s how to find affordable, reliable towing.

When cheaper is fine vs when quality matters:

For a simple, short-distance tow during business hours in good weather, standard pricing from any licensed company is usually fine. However, for complex situations (accident recovery, heavy vehicles, dangerous locations, extreme weather), investing in a reputable company with proper equipment is worth the slightly higher cost.

Off-peak savings:

If your situation isn’t urgent and you can wait until business hours, you’ll avoid evening/night/holiday surcharges. However, don’t compromise safety by waiting if you’re in a dangerous location.

Local vs highway rates:

Some companies charge higher rates for highway recoveries due to increased danger and traffic management requirements. If you can safely move your vehicle to a side street or parking lot, you may save on towing costs.

Ask about package pricing:

If you need towing plus another service (like winching + towing, or battery boost + towing), ask if there’s package pricing. Many companies offer slight discounts when you need multiple services.

How to save without sacrificing quality:

• Maintain AAA or roadside assistance coverage if you drive an older vehicle
• Keep your vehicle well-maintained to reduce breakdown frequency
• Store the number of a trusted towing company so you’re not searching during an emergency
• Ask for military, senior, or student discounts (some companies offer these)
• Build a relationship with a local towing company for potential repeat customer discounts

Montreal Towing’s Transparent Pricing Promise

At Montreal Towing, we believe surprise fees and unclear pricing are unacceptable. Here’s our commitment to you.

Our 2026 base rates:

• Standard local towing (within Montreal): Starting at $150
• Flatbed towing: Starting at $180
• Battery boost: Starting at $99
• Tire change: Starting at $99
• Winching service: Starting at $150
• Car unlocking: Starting at $99

No hidden fees guarantee:

The price we quote is the price you pay. No surprise additions, no unexplained surcharges, no hidden costs. If we quote $175 for your tow, that’s exactly what you’ll be charged.

Upfront quotes always:

When you call 514-483-6944, we ask about your location, vehicle type, and situation, then provide an immediate quote before dispatching. You decide whether to proceed with full price transparency.

Insurance billing available:

We work directly with insurance companies and handle all paperwork. If your insurance covers the tow, you often pay nothing upfront.

Service across all Montreal neighborhoods:

We provide the same transparent pricing whether you’re in Plateau-Mont-Royal, Verdun, Old Montreal, Côte-des-Neiges, or any other Montreal area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Need a Towing Quote? Call Now

Understanding towing costs helps you make informed decisions, but nothing beats having a trusted towing company you can count on when you need help.

Montreal Towing provides professional, affordable towing and roadside assistance 24/7 across all Montreal neighborhoods with:

• Upfront transparent pricing with no hidden fees
• Fast response times (typically 20-30 minutes)
• Professional equipment (flatbeds, wheel-lifts, heavy-duty trucks)
• Trained, licensed operators
• Insurance billing available for accident towing
• Damage-free guarantee on all services
• Service in all Montreal areas including Griffintown, Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, Outremont, and more

Call Montreal Towing now at 514-483-6944 for a free, no-obligation quote.

Whether you need emergency towing, roadside assistance, or just want to know what to expect for future reference, we’re here to help with honest answers and fair pricing.

Available 24/7 | Transparent Pricing | All Montreal Areas | No Hidden Fees