What to do if your car breaks down in Paris: practical guide

First, stay calm. If you are on a motorway or fast road, switch on your hazard lights immediately and, if it is safe, move the vehicle onto the hard shoulder. Warn other drivers as the law of the country requires: in Spain with the connected V-16 warning light (mandatory since January 2026); in most other European countries with a warning triangle placed far enough behind the car. If you are in central Paris, try to stop somewhere safe without blocking traffic.

In Paris you can find help directly in the Priority Help Car app: you will see on the map which roadside assistance professionals are available near you and can contact the one you choose instantly.

Put on your reflective vest before leaving the vehicle. Always get out on the side away from traffic. If you are on a motorway, move away from the vehicle and wait behind the safety barrier.

Never attempt to repair the vehicle in a live lane. If the breakdown happens at night, keep your sidelights on as well as the hazard lights.

You have two options for getting quick help:

Option 1 — Direct contact (emergencies): open the Priority Help Car app. On the map you will see which professionals are available in Paris right now. Tap one and contact them directly by phone or chat: before accepting you see their price and estimated arrival time. The professional will see your location and can arrive in minutes.

Option 2 — Post a request (non-urgent): if it is not an emergency, post a request describing your situation. You will receive offers from several professionals in Paris and can compare prices before choosing.

Indicative figures for a car:

• •Urban tow (0–50 km): from €120; how much more depends on each case
• •On the motorway: regulated rate, from €151 incl. VAT in 2026 (50% more at night, at weekends and on public holidays)
• •At night, at weekends or on public holidays: a surcharge may apply
• •If the car has to go further: carriers who already drive that route usually charge around €100–250 up to 100 km and €200–450 between 100 and 300 km

An urgent or dedicated tow truck for a long trip usually costs more than those ranges. The final price is set by each tow truck operator in their offer and you see it before accepting, together with their estimated arrival time.