How Much Does a Tow Cost in Memphis, TN?
Nobody plans on needing a tow. But when it happens, the first question is always "how much is this going to cost?" Here's a straight answer based on current Memphis towing rates.
Typical Memphis Towing Cost
$85–$125
base rate + $3–$5 per mile
A 10-mile tow in Memphis typically runs $115–$175 total. After-hours and flatbed tows cost more.
What Affects the Price
Distance
The per-mile charge is the biggest variable. A tow from Midtown to East Memphis costs a lot less than a tow from Collierville to downtown. Most companies charge $3–$5 per mile after the base rate.
Time of Day
After-hours tows (nights, weekends, holidays) typically cost $25–$75 more than daytime rates. If you break down at 2 AM on I-240, expect to pay a premium.
Vehicle Type
A sedan on a standard tow dolly is cheaper than a truck or SUV that needs a flatbed. Large vehicles, AWD vehicles, and lowered cars almost always require a flatbed.
Flatbed vs. Dolly
Flatbed tows are safer for most vehicles but cost $25–$50 more. If your car won't roll (locked transmission, flat tire, accident damage), a flatbed is the only option.
Towing to Snell Automotive
If your car breaks down and you need it towed to a shop, call us first. We work with several local towing companies in the Memphis area and can help coordinate your tow. We don't charge a markup on towing — we just make the call and get you here.
Once your vehicle arrives, we'll diagnose the problem and give you an honest quote before we start any work. If it came in on a tow truck, we know you're already having a bad day — we're not going to pile on.
We're located at 2848 Appling Way, Memphis, TN 38133 — easy access from I-40 and convenient to Bartlett, Cordova, and East Memphis.
Roadside Breakdown in Memphis? Here's What to Do
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1
Get to a safe spot
Pull as far off the road as possible. If you're on I-40 or I-240, get onto the shoulder or exit ramp. If the car won't move, stay in the vehicle with your seatbelt on.
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2
Turn on your hazard lights
Make yourself visible. If you have reflective triangles or flares, set them out behind your vehicle — especially at night or in rain.
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3
Call for a tow
Call your roadside assistance, your insurance company, or a local towing company. Or call us at Snell and we'll help coordinate it.
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4
Don't accept the first impound lot
Some tow drivers will take your car to a lot they work with — and you'll pay daily storage fees to get it out. Tell them where you want the car towed. You have the right to choose your destination.
AAA vs. Paying Out of Pocket
AAA Classic membership runs about $68–$94 per year in Tennessee and covers towing up to 5 miles (Plus covers up to 100 miles). If you need one tow a year, the membership basically pays for itself versus the $85–$125+ you'd pay out of pocket.
Beyond towing, AAA includes lockout service, battery jump-starts, flat tire changes, and fuel delivery. For older vehicles or long-commute drivers, it's worth having.
Some car insurance policies also include roadside assistance for $2–$5/month added to your premium. Check your policy before paying for a separate membership — you might already have it.
"When somebody calls needing a tow, they're already having a bad day. We try to make it less bad. Fair price, quick response, no games. And if we tow it here, we fix it here — so you're not paying twice."
Stranded? Call Us.
If your car broke down and you need a tow, give us a call. We'll help coordinate the tow and get your vehicle to our shop. No markup on towing, no pressure — just help.
2848 Appling Way, Memphis, TN 38133