$1000 for a 23 mile tow?

[211Racing]

Total Newbie here. Just bought a 2002 Tioga 24D. After many DIY tests and replacing Fuel Pump Fuse, Relay and Fuel Filter, I have concluded that my RV isn't starting due to a Fuel Pump gone bad. It sat unattended for over a year. We've had AAA forever. Upgraded to their RV package. They'll cover the first $500 of a tow, but the service that they contract with (or at least the one that could do a tow today) wanted $1000. As in $500 from me too. Is there a trick to getting a decent priced tow? Thanks.

[ktosv]

I haven’t ever had to us the RV benefit, but when ever I call AAA they ask where I want it towed. They have referenced where they would suggest having it towed. The last time they would have taken it to my local independent shop less than 5 miles from home. Instead they towed it to my preferred dealership 25 miles away without question.

[Grit_dog]

And I used to use AAA as a personal towing service every time my old snowplow would break down. It’s only a sucker deal if one doesn’t understand cost/benefit analysis.

[time2roll]

211Racing wrote:
Is there a trick to getting a decent priced tow? Thanks.

Shop around? And don't tell them you have insurance.

[Cummins12V98]

I had BOTH, my 15 DRW (flatbed) and 16 DRV (semi truck) towed from Seattle North. RV to my home 45 miles and truck to Dealer that F-DUP my AISIN Transmission 60 miles. Total Cost was $1,800. Turned into my Auto Ins and a week later a check was sent minus my $100 deductible. Sure as heck wasn't the closest repair facility or place to park the RV.

I have American Family Ins and am VERY happy with what I get for my money. NEVER have gotten suckered into AAA or the like and simply add towing to all vehicles on Auto policy for very little $$$.

[JRscooby]

Let me see, you bought a broke down vehicle. Then when you decided you needed to tow it, you bought tow insurance? Then you advertised on the net you are defrauding the insurance co?

You might be better off to find a mobile repair to fix it where it sits.

[rhagfo]

Did you request a detailed bill from the tow company??

[Grit_dog]

Ever think they knew your policy covered x amount, and they upcharged?

[valhalla360]

Usually, they only tow to the nearest shop. If you want to go further, it's on you.

Also, is there a difference between road side "it broke down" vs you bought a broken down unit and now want it towed?

Assuming the tow company is using an oversize tow truck for large commercial vehicles, it's not outrageous.

[Thermoguy]

Wow, I have AAA RV and they towed my 5th wheel about 10 miles to the nearest (acceptable) shop. Thought I would have to go about 50 - 70 miles but found a closer location. The truck had to come from about 50 miles away to tow us. No charge, AAA covered the entire amount. This was a couple years ago, but have never had and issue with AAA.

[Lwiddis]

Shop tow outfits via phone. Tell them you’ll accept late at night or early, real early, in the morning. Anytime they aren’t busy.

[rhagfo]

What size tow truck did they send?

[wildtoad]

Did you ask them to take it somewhere other than the closest repair facility? A lot of times they pay to get it to a closest repair.