If you're stranded and Googling "tow cost" from the side of the road, here's the short answer: most tows in Ottawa run between $90 and $180, depending on distance, time of day, and what kind of vehicle you're driving. But that number can shift fast depending on a few things.
Most Ottawa towing companies charge a hookup fee (usually $70–$100) plus a per-kilometre rate (about $3–$5/km). So a 10 km tow in the city typically lands around $100–$150. That covers a standard car or light truck during daytime hours.
Here's a rough breakdown:
| Tow type | Typical range | |---|---| | Local tow (under 10 km, daytime) | $90–$140 | | Local tow (under 10 km, after hours) | $120–$180 | | Longer tow (10–25 km) | $140–$220 | | Accident recovery (with winching) | $200–$400+ | | Flatbed tow (motorcycle, classic car, AWD) | $130–$200 |
Time of day. Nights, weekends, and holidays almost always cost more — typically a $30–$50 after-hours surcharge. In Ottawa winters, that's when most calls happen.
Vehicle size. A minivan or pickup weighs more than a sedan and takes more fuel and time. Heavy-duty tows (box trucks, RVs) cost more again. If you drive a larger vehicle, ask about rates when you call.
Where you are. A tow from downtown to Kanata costs more than a tow within the same neighbourhood. If you're stuck on the 417 or in a rural area outside the Greenbelt, the distance adds up fast.
What happened. A simple dead-battery tow is straightforward. But if your car went into a ditch in February, the driver needs a winch and more time — and that costs more. Accident recovery starts around $200 and can go up from there.
Towing type. Flatbed towing costs more than wheel-lift (hook-and-chain) but is safer for AWD vehicles and anything with low clearance. If you need a flatbed, specify it when you call.
Maybe. Check your policy — many Ontario auto policies include roadside assistance coverage or a towing rider. CAA members get free towing up to a certain distance depending on their membership level (Classic: 10 km, Plus: 200 km, Premier: 320 km). If you have CAA, call them first.
Some credit cards (especially travel and premium cards) include roadside assistance. Worth checking before you pay out of pocket.
1. Save a number now. The worst time to price-shop is from the shoulder of the 417. Pick a towing company with transparent pricing and save their number. Most Valuable Towing serves all of Ottawa 24/7 — call 613-262-6912.
2. Ask for the total before they dispatch. A reputable company will give you a clear estimate: hookup + per-km + any surcharge. If they won't, call someone else.
3. Know your location. The dispatcher needs to know where you are to price the tow. If you're not sure, use Google Maps — it'll save time and money.
4. Don't let a stranger tow you. Only use a licensed, insured towing company. Unlicensed "chasers" show up at accident scenes and charge whatever they want. In Ontario, tow operators must be TSSEA-certified.
A tow in Ottawa costs $90–$180 for most situations. The best way to control that cost is to have a trusted company's number saved before you need it. Save 613-262-6912 — available 24/7, upfront pricing, no surprises.
Need a tow now? We'll give you an upfront price before we dispatch. See all our services or call 613-262-6912 — 24/7, transparent pricing, TSSEA-certified. Serving Ottawa and 24 surrounding areas.