Towing vs. Roadside Assistance: What’s the Difference?

When your vehicle breaks down, the first thing you want is help—and fast. But do you need towing or just roadside assistance?

While both services are designed to get you back on the road, they’re not the same—and knowing the difference can save you time, money, and stress. Whether it’s a quick fix or a full tow truck service, here’s a breakdown of what each includes and when to call which.

Here’s a breakdown of what each service includes and when to call which.

What Is Roadside Assistance?

Roadside assistance is meant for minor, non-mechanical issues that leave your car temporarily disabled—but not beyond repair. It’s like first aid for your vehicle.

Common Roadside Assistance Services:

• Flat tire change
• Dead battery jump-start
• Fuel delivery if you run out of gas
• Lockout service if you’re locked out of your vehicle
• Minor mechanical adjustments on-site

When to Use Roadside Assistance:

• You’ve got a flat tire but have a usable spare
• Your battery died in a parking lot or driveway
• You accidentally locked your keys in the car
• You’re out of gas a few kilometers from a fuel station

Roadside assistance can get you back on the road quickly without towing your vehicle to a shop.

What Is Towing?

Towing & Recovery is needed when your vehicle has serious mechanical issues or damage and cannot be safely driven—even after quick fixes.

Common Reasons You May Need a Tow:

• Accident damage
• Engine failure
• Transmission problems
• No spare tire or wheel damage
• Car won’t start after battery boost
• Severe overheating or fluid leaks

Towing involves hooking up your vehicle and transporting it to a repair shop, your home, or another location of your choice.

⚠️ Towing or Roadside? How to Decide:

Problem	Roadside Assistance	Towing Needed
Flat tire (with spare)	✅	❌
Out of gas	✅	❌
Battery died	✅	❌
Locked out	✅	❌
Major engine issues	❌	✅
No spare tire	❌	✅
After an accident	❌	✅
Unknown issue—car won’t move	❌	✅

Still unsure? That’s where Ottawa Tow Truck comes in—we can assess your situation over the phone and dispatch the right service.

Why Choose Ottawa Tow Truck?

At Ottawa Tow Truck, we offer both towing and full-service roadside assistance. Whether you need a jump-start, tire change, or a full tow to the nearest mechanic, our trained professionals are available 24/7 across Ottawa.

• Fast response times
• Competitive pricing
• Local, reliable team
• Safe, damage-free towing

Need Help Now?

Don’t guess—get the help you need.
Call Ottawa Tow Truck at (613) 869-8869 for fast, reliable service—day or night.

Final Thought:

The next time you’re stranded, knowing the difference between towing and roadside assistance will help you make the right call. And no matter what you need, Ottawa Tow Truck is ready to respond—fast.