Your car just made a noise that cars are not supposed to make, and now it’s parked on the shoulder of Foothill Blvd. Somewhere between calling for a tow and calling your mom, one question shows up: how much is this going to cost? Fair question. Here’s what actually sets the price of a tow.
Short answer: The price of a tow truck service depends mostly on how far the vehicle goes, how big and heavy it is, which truck it needs, and whether there’s extra work on site, like a winch-out. The best way to know is a free estimate before the truck comes. Call Splendid Towing Assistance at (909) 757-8831, and you get an upfront price before we start.
What sets the price of a tow?
| Factor | Why it changes the price |
|---|---|
| Distance | A short hop across Rancho Cucamonga costs less than a long tow across the Inland Empire. |
| Vehicle size and weight | A motorcycle or a sedan needs a lighter truck than an RV, a box truck or a bus. |
| Type of truck | A flatbed carries the whole vehicle. A wheel lift lifts one end and is often the more affordable choice. |
| Vehicle condition | A car that won’t roll, steer or shift into neutral can need dollies or extra setup time. |
| Where the vehicle is | A ditch, sand, a tight parking garage or a busy freeway shoulder can take more work. |
| Extra work on site | A winch-out, extra fuel or a trunk lockout is priced on top of the basic service. |
Is a flatbed more expensive than a wheel lift?
Often, yes, but not always worth skipping. A wheel lift is fine for many everyday front or rear wheel drive cars. A flatbed is the safer choice for all-wheel drive cars, lowered cars, luxury cars, motorcycles and cars with damaged wheels. With us, luxury cars always ride on a flatbed. See light duty towing for how we pick the truck.
Do big vehicles cost more to tow?
Yes. An RV, a box truck or a bus needs a bigger truck and more equipment, so it costs more than a car. We tow medium duty vehicles like RVs and vans, and heavy duty trucks and buses. Tell us the make, model and rough weight when you call, so the estimate is right the first time.
Can a roadside fix cost less than a tow?
Usually, yes. If the problem is a dead battery, a flat tire with a usable spare, an empty tank or keys locked inside, a roadside visit can solve it right there, with no tow and no drop-off. See our roadside assistance services: tire changes, jump starts, fuel delivery, car lockouts and winch-outs.
How do I get an accurate estimate?
- Say where the vehicle is: the street and nearest cross street, or the freeway and direction.
- Say where it should go: your home, a shop or a dealer, with the address.
- Give the year, make and model, and say if it’s lowered, all-wheel drive, electric or extra heavy.
- Say if it starts, rolls and steers, and whether the wheels or tires are damaged.
- Mention anything unusual: a parking garage, a ditch, sand or mud, or a locked steering wheel.
The more we know, the closer the estimate. If the driver finds extra work on site, like a winch-out the photos didn’t show, that can add to the price, and the driver will tell you before doing it.
Does insurance or a roadside plan pay for towing?
Sometimes. Many auto policies and roadside plans include some towing, often up to a set distance. Check your policy or call your provider before the tow, and ask whether you pay first and get paid back later. Keep your receipt either way.
How can I keep the cost down?
- Ask for an estimate before the truck is sent, not after.
- Pick the closest shop you trust, since distance is a big part of the price.
- Ask whether a roadside fix could work before you book a tow.
- Keep a usable spare tire and a lug nut key in the car, because a tire change costs less than a tow.
Towing service around Rancho Cucamonga
Splendid Towing Assistance is based in Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730. We tow in Rancho Cucamonga (including Alta Loma and Etiwanda), Upland, Ontario, Fontana, Rialto, Montclair and Claremont, on I-10, I-15, CA-210 and Foothill Blvd (Route 66). Our regular hours are 8 AM to 11 PM, every day. See all our towing services.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a tow truck service?
It depends on the distance, the vehicle’s size and weight, the truck it needs and any extra work on site. Call (909) 757-8831 for a free estimate and an upfront price.
Do you give free estimates?
Yes. You get a free estimate and an upfront price before we start. Extra work found on site can add to the price.
Is a flatbed tow more expensive?
It can be. A wheel lift is often the more affordable choice for everyday cars, but luxury, lowered and all-wheel drive cars should ride on a flatbed.
Does it cost more to tow an RV or a truck?
Yes. Larger and heavier vehicles need a bigger truck and more equipment.
What are your hours?
Our regular hours are 8 AM to 11 PM, every day. We can often help earlier or later, so call and ask.