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1-888-471-2424How much does car towing cost in Québec?
Published on November 2, 2026
In Québec, towing costs vary depending on the distance, the type and weight of the vehicle, the work required, and where the incident occurs. Whether you need a tow because of a breakdown, a flat tire, running off the road, or an accident, it helps to understand the main factors that influence towing rates. Here’s what you need to know to estimate your towing costs.
What is the average cost of towing a vehicle?
In Québec, towing a vehicle weighing less than 4,500 kg generally costs between $140 and $200, according to the Association des professionnels du dépannage du Québec (APDQ). Additional charges of $3 to $5 per kilometre, along with certain surcharges, may apply.
Formula for calculating towing costs:
Base rate (flat fee) + additional kilometres + applicable surcharges + taxes = total towing cost
Here are some estimated towing costs for a standard vehicle based on distance. These estimates use a base rate of $140 to $200, plus $3 to $5 for each additional kilometre.
Scenario | Estimated total cost before taxes |
|---|---|
Towing less than 10 km (hook-up fee) | $140 to $200 |
Towing 15 km | $155 to $225 |
Towing 25 km | $185 to $275 |
Towing 50 km | $260 to $400 |
Towing 100 km or more | $410 or more |
These figures are estimates and do not represent a standard rate schedule for all towing networks in Québec.
What factors affect the price of towing a vehicle?
Several factors can affect the per-kilometre cost of towing.
- Distance: The farther your vehicle needs to be towed, the higher the bill.
- Vehicle type: Towing an SUV, heavy vehicle, or electric vehicle may require specialized equipment and increase the cost.
- Time of service: Towing at night, on weekends, or during a public holiday may cost more.
- Weather conditions: Snow or freezing rain in winter can make towing more difficult and result in surcharges.
- Required labour and equipment: A stuck vehicle may require winching or recovery services. A flatbed tow truck, towing dollies, or other specialized equipment may also be necessary, potentially resulting in surcharges.
Whenever possible, ask for a full estimate before confirming the service.
Are car towing rates the same across Québec?
No. Outside regulated exclusive towing zones, towing companies generally set their own rates. However, certain areas of Greater Montréal are subject to special towing regulations.
On some Montréal bridges and highways
In Montréal, towing fees on certain expressways and bridges are regulated by the Ministère des Transports et de la Mobilité durable (MTMD). A designated towing company is assigned to each exclusive towing zone.
The rate in effect as of November 1, 2026, for the first 10 kilometres is $192.84.
If your vehicle breaks down or you’re involved in a collision on this highway network, call 911. You’ll be directed to the towing company assigned to that area.
Good to know: CAA-Quebec members may be eligible for reimbursement for towing in these zones, subject to certain conditions.
On some streets on the Island of Montréal
The Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM) has established exclusive towing zones on some streets on the Island of Montréal to protect drivers involved in accidents or whose broken-down vehicles obstruct traffic or pose a safety hazard.
In 2026, the applicable rate in these zones is $199 for the first 10 kilometres for vehicles weighing less than 3,000 kg, plus $4 per additional kilometre. These rates differ from those that apply to the highway network regulated by the MTMD.
In remote areas
Travel distances and service vehicle availability can affect the cost of towing. Ask for an estimate based on your specific situation.
Who pays for towing after an accident?
After an accident, towing costs are generally paid by the vehicle owner. Depending on their auto insurance coverage or roadside assistance membership, some or all of these expenses may subsequently be reimbursed.
The person responsible for the accident is therefore not necessarily the person who pays the towing bill.
Does auto insurance cover towing costs?
It depends on your coverage. Many auto insurance policies in Québec offer roadside assistance as an optional benefit. Endorsement Q.E.F. No. 33 – Insurance for roadside assistance costs, which covers roadside assistance costs, may cover towing costs following a breakdown or accident.
Check your auto insurance policy to see what is covered, and review any roadside assistance services you already have, including those offered by your dealership.
Is a roadside assistance membership worth it?
Given the cost of a single tow, a roadside assistance membership, such as CAA-Quebec, can quickly pay for itself. However, the actual savings depend on your membership level, the distance covered, and the cost of towing.
Expert’s insight
“Think of roadside assistance as a form of insurance. You hope you never have to use it, but when your vehicle breaks down, you’re glad to have it.”
Pierre-Serge LabbéVice President, Mobility Services, CAA-Quebec
How can you save on towing?
A roadside assistance membership can help you save on towing services. Otherwise, here are some tips to reduce the cost of each service:
- Ask for an estimate: Confirm the base rate, the mileage included, and any applicable surcharges.
- Choose a garage close to the breakdown location: A shorter towing distance can reduce your bill.
- Choose roadside assistance when possible: An on-site repair or battery jump-start may cost less than towing your vehicle.
- Plan non-urgent tows in advance: If your vehicle can safely stay where it is, arrange for towing outside peak hours and, if possible, avoid weekends.
- Check your coverage: Your auto insurance or roadside assistance membership may cover some towing expenses.
Frequently asked questions about towing costs
1. How do you calculate the cost of towing?
Add the base rate, charges for additional kilometres, applicable surcharges, and taxes. Always check what the base rate includes.
Base rate + additional kilometres + applicable surcharges + taxes = total towing cost.
2. Does an electric car cost more to tow?
Not necessarily. However, depending on the model and the manufacturer’s instructions, an electric vehicle may require a flatbed tow truck or specialized equipment. This can affect the price.
3. Does roadside assistance cover all towing services?
No. Coverage depends on your membership level, mileage limits, exclusions, and the circumstances.
4. Can you choose your towing company after an accident?
Not necessarily. Following an accident or emergency, the police often call a towing company on the driver’s behalf. If the accident occurs in an exclusive towing zone, the designated company for that area will respond. When circumstances allow, you may be able to choose your own towing company.
5. Does towing cost more at night or on weekends?
It can. Some towing companies apply surcharges for service at night, on weekends, or during public holidays. Whenever possible, ask for an estimate before confirming the service.
6. Can I have my car towed to the garage of my choice?
Yes. You can generally choose the garage where you want your vehicle towed. To reduce costs, choose a garage close to the breakdown location. CAA-Quebec members may also enjoy benefits at Approved Auto Repair Service Locations.