How much does a tow bar cost?
Getting an accurate towbar fitting price isn’t always as simple as it may seem. The final cost depends on several different factors, which is why it’s always best to request a clear written quotation that confirms exactly what is included in the price.
Your quotation should always include VAT and confirm that the price covers all parts, labour, and any additional work required.
Let’s take a look at the key factors that determine the cost of towbar fitting.
Towbar Quality
As with most vehicle components, there are budget towbars and premium-quality towbars. Unfortunately, there’s no such thing as a cheap towbar that is also high quality.
Lower-priced towbars are designed to keep costs down, but this often means compromises in materials, finish, and long-term durability. Higher-quality towbars are manufactured to stricter standards and are built to last.
The brand and quality of the towbar can change the overall fitting price by around £100 or more.
Towbar Style
There are three main styles of towbar:
- Fixed flange towbar
- Fixed swan neck towbar
- Detachable swan neck towbar
Fixed flange and fixed swan neck towbars are usually similar in price, while detachable towbars typically cost around £100 more.
Some vehicles can also be fitted with fully electronic deployable towbars, but these systems are significantly more expensive due to the advanced components involved.
Towing Electrics
Towbar electrics come in two main types:
Universal Wiring
Universal electrics are a basic wiring solution and are generally not recommended for vehicles that are under warranty or leased.
Although they are cheaper initially, they are less reliable and offer limited integration with the vehicle’s systems. For most modern vehicles, universal wiring is not considered the best option.
Vehicle-Specific Wiring
Vehicle-specific electrics are designed specifically for your make and model of vehicle. They connect directly to the vehicle manufacturer’s designated connection points and do not invalidate the vehicle warranty.
Another major benefit is that many vehicles will automatically activate towing safety features when a trailer, caravan, or cycle carrier is connected.
In some cases, however, the vehicle may require a software update to activate these features.
Towbar Vehicle Software Update
If your vehicle requires a software update to activate towing functions, this is usually completed at the time of installation.
Although this adds to the total cost, it is often an essential part of the towbar installation to ensure the vehicle recognises when it is towing.
A software update can typically add £75 to £150 to the overall installation price.
Vehicle Complexity
The complexity of the vehicle also affects the fitting cost.
Some vehicles are relatively simple to work on, while others require more time and expertise.
For example:
- A Ford Transit van may take under two hours to install a towbar and electrics.
- A more complex vehicle, such as a Land Rover Defender, can take three to four hours to complete.
More complex installations naturally increase labour time and therefore cost.
Towbar Fitters
Professional towbar installation requires skilled and experienced technicians.
Towbar fitters must combine the skills of vehicle mechanics and auto electricians, while also keeping up to date with the latest vehicle technology and electronic systems.
Using trained professionals ensures the installation is safe, reliable, and fully compatible with your vehicle.
Mobile or Onsite Fitting
Many companies offer mobile towbar fitting, where the installation is carried out at your home or workplace.
Mobile fitting is usually slightly more expensive than taking your vehicle to a garage or dedicated fitting centre due to travel time and additional costs.
However, many customers prefer the convenience of having the work completed at their location.
Other Factors Affecting Towbar Fitting Price
Like any business, towbar installation companies also have operating costs that contribute to the overall price. These may include:
- Insurance
- Fuel costs
- Business rates
- Corporation tax
- Office staff and administration
For safety and peace of mind, you should only have a towbar fitted by a registered and insured company that provides a written guarantee for the work carried out.
Conclusion
The cost of towbar installation depends on many different factors, including the towbar type, vehicle complexity, wiring system, and any required software updates.
If you’re looking for the cheapest towbar fitting, you may have to compromise on reliability and vehicle integration.
However, if you want safety, reliability, and full vehicle compatibility, it’s worth investing in a professional installation.
Typical towbar supply and fitting prices start from around £595 and can rise to £1,700 or more, depending on the vehicle and specification. Towbars for motorhomes and specialist vehicles may cost even more.
To get an accurate and all-inclusive towbar fitting price, please get in touch with Ultimate Towbars on 0114 360 7080 or complete the online towbar fitting price form at https://www.ultimatetowbars.co.uk/online-towbar-fitting-quote/
