If your car has been impounded, you’re not alone—and you’re likely wondering how much it’s going to cost to get it back. The total cost to un-impound a vehicle in the U.S. can vary widely depending on where you live, why your car was towed, how long it’s been in the lot, and whether you have outstanding tickets or violations. Knowing what to expect can help you act quickly and avoid extra charges.
One of the biggest factors that affects the cost is location. Cities like Portland, Los Angeles, Houston, or New York City tend to have higher fees compared to smaller towns. For example, in Los Angeles, you might pay over $115 for towing, about $60 per day for storage, and another $100 in administrative fees. In Houston, a one-day impound might cost around $200 total. In New York City, expect to pay around $185 for towing and $20 per day for storage, not including any unpaid tickets, and Portland will break the bank nearing $2000 for a brief tow and impound!
The reason your car was impounded also plays a role. Vehicles can be towed for a range of issues, from something as simple as parking illegally or having an expired registration, to more serious offenses like DUIs or having multiple unpaid tickets. The more serious the situation, the more hurdles you may need to clear, and the more expensive it gets. Fees add up quickly. Typical towing fees range from $75 to $300. Daily storage charges fall between $20 and $100 per day. Administrative fees can be anywhere from $25 to $250. Some cities may also charge a separate release fee, often between $50 and $150. If your impoundment was related to unresolved tickets or legal violations, you’ll need to settle those as well before your car is released. Those amounts vary by case.
If your car has only been in the lot for a day, you can expect to pay between $150 and $400 to get it back. But if it’s been sitting there for a week, the total can easily climb to $1,000 or more. Every additional day means more storage fees, and weekends or holidays can delay your ability to retrieve your car, further increasing the cost. To get your car back, you’ll need to bring a valid photo ID and proof of ownership, such as the title or current registration. You must also pay all associated fees and fines and clear any DMV or court holds before your car is released. Once that’s done, you can head to the designated impound lot during their business hours.
If you’re not sure where to begin or how much you’re going to owe, OUTPOUND is here to help. We provide real time information based on your city and state, helping you estimate your costs before you head to the impound lot. We can also help you locate your vehicle and guide you through the process to avoid delays and extra fees. Time is money when it comes to impounds, so visit OUTPOUND.COM to get fast, reliable help and take the first step to getting your car back today.
