When your car breaks down or you’re involved in an accident, one of the first questions on your mind is: “How much is this going to cost?” Towing prices in Quebec can vary widely depending on multiple factors, and understanding what you’ll pay helps you budget for emergencies and avoid surprise charges.
In this comprehensive 2026 price guide, we’ll break down exactly what towing services cost in Quebec, explain the factors that affect pricing, reveal hidden fees to watch for, and show you how to get transparent quotes from reliable towing companies like Quebec Remorquage.
Average Towing Costs in Quebec (2026)
Quebec towing costs depend on your specific situation, but these ranges represent typical pricing across the province for standard passenger vehicles:
| Service Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Local Towing (0-10 km) | $100 – $200 |
| Long-Distance Towing | $3 – $5 per km |
| Flatbed Towing | $120 – $250 |
| Heavy-Duty Towing | $200 – $500+ |
| Motorcycle Towing | $100 – $180 |
| Winch-Out / Recovery | $100 – $250 |
| Accident Towing | $150 – $300 |
| Roadside Assistance | $99 – $150 |
These are general estimates for Quebec. Your actual cost depends on factors we’ll explain below. For an accurate quote based on your specific situation, call Quebec Remorquage at (418) 476-1522 for transparent, upfront pricing with no hidden fees.
Breaking Down Local Towing Costs
Local towing—moving your vehicle within the same city or region—is the most common type of tow. In Quebec, this typically costs between $100 and $200 for the first 10 kilometers.
What’s Included in the Base Rate
Your base towing fee covers several services:
- Dispatch and travel: The cost of sending a truck to your location
- Hookup: Safely connecting your vehicle to the tow truck
- Transport: Moving your vehicle to your chosen destination within the base distance
- Basic protection: Straps, wheel lifts, or dollies to secure your vehicle
- Operator expertise: Professional driver trained in safe towing procedures
Quebec Remorquage includes all of these in our base rate, plus real-time updates via text so you know exactly when we’ll arrive. Need emergency breakdown towing? We serve all Quebec neighborhoods with fast response times.
Additional Distance Charges
Beyond the base distance (usually 10 km), towing companies charge per kilometer. In Quebec, expect to pay:
- $3-5 per kilometer for standard passenger vehicles
- $4-6 per kilometer for larger vehicles (SUVs, trucks)
- $5-8 per kilometer for heavy-duty towing (commercial vehicles, RVs)
For example, if you need a tow from Limoilou to a mechanic in Charlesbourg (approximately 12 km), you’d pay the base rate ($100-150) plus 2 km of additional distance ($6-10), totaling around $106-160.
Long-Distance Towing Costs
Long-distance towing—transporting your vehicle across Quebec or to another province—costs significantly more due to time, fuel, and driver commitment.
Typical long-distance rates in Quebec:
- Within Quebec City region: $3-5/km
- Quebec to Montreal (250 km): $750-1,250
- Quebec to Gatineau (450 km): $1,350-2,250
- Across provincial lines: Custom quotes based on distance and regulations
Long-distance towing often includes additional considerations like driver return travel (if the tow truck isn’t staying at the destination), highway tolls, and time-based fees if loading or unloading takes longer than expected.
Quebec Remorquage offers professional long-distance towing throughout Quebec with upfront quotes and no surprise charges. Call (418) 476-1522 for accurate long-distance pricing.
Specialized Towing Service Costs
Flatbed Towing
Flatbed towing costs $120-250 in Quebec because it requires specialized equipment and provides maximum vehicle protection. Your car rides on a flat platform with all four wheels off the ground, preventing transmission damage, tire wear, and undercarriage scraping.
Flatbed towing is ideal for:
- All-wheel drive and four-wheel drive vehicles
- Low-clearance sports cars and luxury vehicles
- Vehicles with damaged wheels or tires
- Classic cars requiring extra protection
- Motorcycles and non-traditional vehicles
The higher cost reflects the specialized equipment and driver training required. Learn more about our flatbed towing services.
Heavy-Duty Towing
Heavy-duty towing for large vehicles starts at $200 and can exceed $500 depending on vehicle size and recovery complexity. This service handles:
- Commercial trucks and buses
- RVs and motorhomes
- Construction equipment
- Large SUVs and trucks over 8,000 kg
Heavy-duty towing requires specialized rotator trucks, multiple-axle tow vehicles, and experienced operators trained in complex recovery. See our heavy-duty towing capabilities.
Motorcycle Towing
Motorcycle towing in Quebec ranges from $100-180. While motorcycles are smaller and lighter, they require special equipment like wheel chocks, soft straps, and flatbed transport to prevent damage during towing.
Never trust a towing company that wants to use a standard wheel-lift on your motorcycle—this can cause serious damage. Quebec Remorquage uses proper motorcycle towing equipment on every call.
Winch-Out and Recovery Services
If your vehicle is stuck in a ditch, snowbank, mud, or off-road, winch-out services cost $100-250 depending on the situation’s complexity. Simple recoveries from shallow ditches cost less, while vehicles deep in ravines or requiring multiple attachment points cost more.
Recovery pricing factors include:
- How far off the road your vehicle sits
- Whether the vehicle is on its side or upside down
- Terrain difficulty (mud, snow, steep embankments)
- Number of winch points needed
- Time required for safe extraction
Quebec Remorquage specializes in winter vehicle recovery. Our professional winch-out services use heavy-duty equipment and proper techniques to extract your vehicle without causing damage.
Roadside Assistance vs. Towing Costs
Not every breakdown requires a full tow. Roadside assistance services are often more affordable when your vehicle can be repaired on-site:
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Battery Boost / Jump Start | $99 – $150 |
| Flat Tire Change | $99 – $150 |
| Fuel Delivery | $99 – $150 + fuel cost |
| Vehicle Lockout | $99 – $150 |
These services get you back on the road quickly without the expense of a full tow. Quebec Remorquage offers complete 24/7 roadside assistance including battery boosts, tire changes, and vehicle unlocking.
Factors That Affect Your Towing Bill
Several variables influence the final cost of towing services in Quebec. Understanding these helps you estimate costs and evaluate quotes.
Distance Traveled
As we’ve covered, distance is the primary cost factor. Local tows (under 10 km) cost less than long-distance transport. Always confirm whether the quoted price includes distance or if per-kilometer charges apply beyond a base radius.
Time of Day and Day of Week
Some towing companies charge premium rates for after-hours service, holidays, or weekends. At Quebec Remorquage, we maintain consistent 24/7 pricing—no surcharges for calling at 3 AM or on Christmas Day. Emergency towing shouldn’t cost more just because of when you need help.
Vehicle Type and Size
Larger, heavier vehicles require bigger tow trucks and specialized equipment, increasing costs. A compact sedan costs less to tow than a full-size pickup truck, which costs less than a commercial bus.
Towing Method Required
The towing method affects price:
- Wheel-lift towing: Most affordable, suitable for many situations
- Flatbed towing: More expensive but provides maximum protection
- Dolly towing: Mid-range pricing for specific vehicle types
Your vehicle’s drivetrain (FWD, RWD, AWD, 4WD) determines which method is appropriate.
Complexity of the Situation
Simple breakdowns on accessible roads cost less than complex recoveries. Factors that increase complexity and cost include:
- Vehicle in a ditch, embankment, or off-road
- Accident scenes requiring cleanup
- Vehicles on their side or upside down
- Difficult access (tight parking garages, narrow alleys)
- Severe weather conditions
- Need for multiple recovery vehicles
Additional Services Required
Extra services beyond basic towing add to the bill:
- Storage fees: If your vehicle is held at a tow yard
- Administrative fees: Paperwork processing
- After-hours access: Retrieving your vehicle from storage outside business hours
- Cleanup services: Removing debris or fluids from accident scenes
Hidden Fees to Watch For
Reputable towing companies provide transparent pricing, but some operators add hidden fees that inflate your final bill. Watch for:
- Gate fees or access charges: Extra costs for entering private property or parking garages
- Waiting time charges: Fees if the operator waits for you or waits at the destination
- Payment processing fees: Surcharges for credit card payments
- Fuel surcharges: Additional costs beyond the quoted rate
- Environmental fees: Unspecified charges for fluid cleanup
- Mileage calculation tricks: Starting the meter from the tow yard instead of your location
At Quebec Remorquage, we quote all costs upfront before dispatching a truck. What we quote is what you pay—no surprises, no hidden fees. Call (418) 476-1522 for honest pricing.
How to Get an Accurate Towing Quote
When calling for towing service, provide these details for the most accurate quote:
- Your exact location: Street address or GPS coordinates
- Your destination: Where you want the vehicle towed
- Vehicle information: Make, model, year, and whether it’s AWD/4WD
- Situation details: Breakdown, accident, stuck in ditch, etc.
- Vehicle condition: Can wheels roll? Is it safe to tow?
- Access information: Parking garage, private property, roadside, etc.
- Time sensitivity: Do you need immediate service or can you schedule?
The more information you provide, the more accurate your quote will be. Reputable companies should give you a clear price range before sending a truck.
Does Insurance Cover Towing Costs?
Many Quebec drivers have towing coverage through their auto insurance policies or roadside assistance memberships. Check your policy for:
- Towing distance limits: Some policies cover only the first 10-50 km
- Annual claim limits: How many tows per year are covered
- Dollar amount caps: Maximum reimbursement per tow
- Approved services: Whether you must use specific tow companies
- Out-of-pocket costs: Deductibles or co-pays you’ll owe
For accident-related towing, your collision coverage typically pays for towing to a repair facility. Quebec Remorquage works directly with all major insurance providers, handling paperwork and billing so you don’t pay out of pocket for covered services. Learn more about our insurance towing services.
Ways to Save on Towing Costs
While towing is never fun, these strategies help minimize costs:
- Add roadside assistance to insurance: Often costs $30-50/year and covers multiple tows
- Join auto club memberships: CAA and similar organizations include towing benefits
- Choose the nearest appropriate facility: Don’t insist on a shop 50 km away when one nearby can help
- Maintain your vehicle: Regular maintenance prevents many breakdowns
- Call before it’s an emergency: If your car is showing signs of trouble, drive it to a mechanic before it dies completely
- Keep emergency numbers saved: Researching towing companies while stranded wastes time and may lead to poor choices
Regular vehicle maintenance is the best money-saver of all. A dead battery replacement ($150-200) costs less than emergency service plus towing ($200-350).
Why Choose Quebec Remorquage for Transparent Pricing
Quebec Remorquage has built our reputation on honest, upfront pricing and reliable service across Quebec. When you call us, you’ll receive:
- Free quotes before dispatch: Know your cost before we send a truck
- No hidden fees or surprises: The quote we give is the price you pay
- 24/7 consistent pricing: No surcharges for nights, weekends, or holidays
- Insurance billing assistance: We work directly with your insurer when coverage applies
- Fast response times: Most calls answered within 30 minutes across Quebec
- Professional, courteous service: Licensed operators with years of experience
We serve all Quebec areas including Limoilou, Beauport, Sainte-Foy, Charlesbourg, Old Quebec, and surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to tow a car 10 km in Quebec?
Towing a standard passenger vehicle 10 kilometers in Quebec typically costs $100-200 total. This includes the base hookup fee and transport within the local service area. Exact pricing depends on the towing company, vehicle type, and specific circumstances. Call (418) 476-1522 for a precise quote based on your situation.
Do towing companies charge more at night or on weekends?
Some towing companies charge premium rates for after-hours service, adding $20-50 to the base cost. However, Quebec Remorquage maintains consistent 24/7 pricing with no surcharges for nights, weekends, or holidays. Emergencies happen anytime, and our pricing reflects that reality—fair rates around the clock.
Is flatbed towing more expensive than wheel-lift towing?
Yes, flatbed towing typically costs $20-50 more than wheel-lift towing because it requires specialized equipment and provides maximum vehicle protection. However, for AWD vehicles, luxury cars, or vehicles with damaged wheels, flatbed towing prevents additional damage that would cost far more to repair. The extra expense is worthwhile for proper protection.
What’s included in the base towing fee?
The base towing fee includes dispatch and travel to your location, hooking up your vehicle safely, and transport to your destination within the base distance (usually 10 km). It also covers basic equipment like straps, wheel lifts, and professional operator service. Additional charges apply for extra distance, specialized equipment, or complex recovery situations.
How much does long-distance towing cost from Quebec City to Montreal?
Long-distance towing from Quebec City to Montreal (approximately 250 km) typically costs $750-1,250 for a standard passenger vehicle. This includes the base hookup fee plus per-kilometer charges ($3-5/km). Exact pricing depends on vehicle size, specific pickup and drop-off locations, and any special handling requirements. Contact us for a detailed quote.
Will my insurance cover towing costs?
Many Quebec auto insurance policies include towing coverage, typically covering $50-100 per tow or distances up to 50 km. Check your policy details or call your insurer to confirm coverage. For accident-related towing, collision coverage usually pays for transport to a repair facility. Quebec Remorquage works directly with insurers to simplify billing and paperwork.
Are there extra charges for towing from parking garages or private property?
Some towing companies charge access fees ($25-75) for parking garages, gated communities, or private property due to additional time and difficulty. At Quebec Remorquage, we include these situations in our standard quoted price—no surprise access fees. We’ll inform you upfront if any unusual circumstances might affect pricing.
How can I avoid paying for towing I don’t need?
Many breakdowns can be solved with roadside assistance rather than full towing—dead batteries, flat tires, empty fuel tanks, and lockouts are all fixable on-site for $99-150, much less than towing costs. When you call, describe your problem clearly so we can recommend the most cost-effective solution. Sometimes a simple battery boost is all you need.
Get a Free, Honest Towing Quote Today
Understanding towing costs helps you budget for emergencies and choose reliable service providers who treat you fairly. Quebec Remorquage is committed to transparent pricing, professional service, and putting Quebec drivers first.
Whether you need routine towing, emergency recovery, long-distance transport, or roadside assistance, we provide upfront quotes with no hidden fees. Our experienced operators handle every situation with care, treating your vehicle like it’s our own.
Save our number in your phone now—when emergencies happen, you’ll know exactly who to call for honest pricing and reliable service.
Need towing or roadside assistance? Call Quebec Remorquage at (418) 476-1522 for a free, no-obligation quote—24/7/365.
We’re here when you need us, with transparent pricing and professional service across all Quebec neighborhoods.