Let’s face it, no one wants to call a tow truck. But when your car breaks down, you’re stuck on the 401, or someone rear-ends you downtown, you don’t have a choice. That’s when one question hits harder than your dead battery:
“How much is this tow going to cost me?”
In this article, we’ll break down the true cost of towing in Toronto, what affects the price, and how to avoid being scammed or overcharged. Whether you’re in North York, Vaughan, or Downtown Toronto, this is information every driver should know.
The Average Cost of Towing in Toronto
Most standard tows within city limits range from $90 to $150.
Here’s a general breakdown of what towing in Toronto might cost:
| Type of Service | Estimated Cost |
| Local Tow (under 10 km) | $90–$120 |
| Long-Distance Tow | $3–$5 per km |
| Flatbed Tow | $120–$180 |
| Accident Recovery | $150–$300 |
| After-Hours Tow | +$20–$50 extra |
Keep in mind—these are fair rates. If you’re quoted $250+ for a basic tow with no extras, you’re being overcharged.
What Affects the Price?
1. Distance
Towing from Mississauga to Vaughan? That’s a much higher rate than from Yonge and Eglinton to Queen Street.
2. Vehicle Type
Luxury, electric, or all-wheel drive vehicles often require flatbed towing, which costs more due to special equipment.
3. Time of Day
Late night, weekends, or holidays can include a surcharge—often in the $20 to $50 range.
4. Location Conditions
Towing out of a narrow underground garage or recovering a vehicle in a ditch takes more time and skill.
Beware of Towing Scams in Toronto
Unfortunately, there are tow truck operators in the GTA who:
- Don’t give a price upfront
- Add massive fees after the job is done
- Tow your vehicle to a “preferred” shop that charges double
To avoid this:
- Always ask for pricing BEFORE they load your car
- Avoid companies that won’t tell you their location or name on the phone
- Read reviews—search for “best towing rates in Toronto” or “tow truck with no hidden fees”
What to Look for in a Fair Towing Company
A good towing company will:
- Offer transparent pricing over the phone
- List their rates on their website
- Explain any added costs (distance, time, equipment)
- Have a reputation for honest, professional service
Reliant Towing offers upfront pricing for every service. Whether it’s a simple battery boost in East York or a full flatbed recovery in Richmond Hill, we make sure you know what you’re paying for—and why.
When You Might Not Need a Tow
Why spend $120 when a quick roadside fix solves your problem?
You might only need:
- A battery boost if your car won’t start
- A tire change if you’ve got a flat but a usable spare
- Fuel delivery if you ran out of gas
- Lockout service if your keys are inside the car
Reliant Towing offers all of the above in Toronto, Vaughan, Mississauga, Markham, and beyond.
Final Thoughts on Towing in Toronto
We get it—you want the best deal. But more importantly, you want someone you can trust. A tow truck company that:
- Answers the phone at 2 AM
- Doesn’t tack on surprise fees
- Shows up with clean equipment
- Gets the job done right
That’s Reliant Towing.
Fair. Local. Professional. Always available when you need us.
Need a tow in Toronto? Call now for honest rates and 24/7 support.