How Much Does Car Recovery Cost?
The honest answer: it depends on a few things. Here’s what decides the price, the from-prices we work to, and why we agree your price on the phone before the truck moves — so there are no surprises.
What decides the price
Four things matter most:
- Distance. How far the truck travels to reach you, and how far your vehicle needs to go after that. A short local tow costs less than a long-distance one.
- Vehicle size and type. A small hatchback is a straightforward flatbed job. A large van, a motorhome, or a loaded vehicle can need a bigger truck.
- Winch or special equipment. If your car is stuck in a ditch, off the road, or can’t roll, winch work adds to the job.
- Motorway recovery. Motorway jobs move faster but need the right setup — that’s priced as its own rate.
Our from-prices
These are the from-prices on our recovery prices page. Your exact price depends on the job, and we agree it with you on the phone before we dispatch.
No hidden extras
The price we agree on the phone is the price you pay. There’s no call-out charge added on arrival and no extra fee for the call itself. If the job turns out different from what you described — say the car needs winching when it looked like a simple tow — we’ll tell you before we do the extra work, not after.
One-off recovery vs breakdown cover
Annual breakdown cover — the kind the AA and RAC sell — suits people who want year-round peace of mind and are happy paying every month or year. One-off recovery suits a single breakdown: no membership, no monthly fee, just the one job at the price we agree. If you break down rarely, one-off recovery is usually the cheaper option. If you drive an older car and want cover for the year, a membership may suit you better. Either way, if you’re stuck right now, one call gets a truck to you.
More guides & help
Caravan Recovery
Touring caravans, twin-axle caravans and motorhomes recovered flatbed-first across the North West.
Read the guide →What to Do When Your Car Breaks Down
The calm, safe steps to take the moment your car stops — and how to get help to you fast.
Read the guide →Recovery Prices
The full price list, from jump starts to long-distance recovery.
See all prices →Common questions about recovery prices.
How much does car recovery cost?
Local recovery starts from £60, standard recovery from £85, and motorway recovery from £95. The exact price depends on distance and vehicle — call 0800 099 6565 and we’ll agree a fixed price before we dispatch.
What makes recovery cost more?
Distance is the biggest factor — how far the truck travels to you, and how far your vehicle needs to go. Bigger vehicles, winch work, and motorway recovery can also add to the price.
Is the price fixed before you come?
Yes. We agree the price on the phone before we dispatch, so there are no surprises. That price is what you pay — no hidden extras.
Need a price?
Call now.
Tell us where you are and where the car needs to go, and we’ll agree a fixed price on the phone. If anyone is in immediate danger, call 999 first.
On WhatsApp? Send your location pin and we’ll come straight to you.
Quick request
Usually takes under 60 seconds.
Tap below and WhatsApp opens with a message ready to send. Tell us where you are and what happened, and we’ll come straight back to you.
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