Irish drivers often use the terms towing and breakdown recovery interchangeably, but they refer to different levels of service. Knowing the distinction ensures you pay for what you actually need.
Towing
A tow truck simply transports your vehicle from one location to another. This is common after accidents or when the car is immobile. Costs depend on distance and vehicle type. Get a sense of pricing in our article on towing costs in Dublin.
Breakdown recovery
Recovery operators start with on-the-spot assistance—jump-starts, wheel changes or minor repairs. Only if the vehicle still can't move do they tow it. This service is more comprehensive and is often covered by insurance policies. For a deeper dive, see our explanation of the meaning of breakdown recovery in Ireland.
Why you should know this
Selecting the right service saves time and money. If a quick fix is possible, recovery avoids unnecessary towing fees. Conversely, if the car is badly damaged, calling a tow truck directly speeds up the process and gets you off the roadside faster. This clarity keeps you safer.
Practical tips
- When phoning for help, describe the issue clearly so dispatchers send the appropriate service.
- Check if your insurance covers recovery; it might reduce your out-of-pocket expense.
- Keep basic tools in the boot to attempt simple fixes before calling for assistance.
- Ask the provider for an estimate so you can compare the cost of towing versus on-site repairs.
Want more advice? Visit our Q&A page for further reading.
Need immediate assistance? Request a tow here