If you’re planning to tow a car, trailer, or storage rack behind your motorhome, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: how much does a towbar fitting actually cost in the UK?
The answer depends on several factors—your motorhome type, towing needs, and the quality of the installation. Here’s a clear, honest breakdown so you know what to expect.
💷 Average Cost of Motorhome Towbar Fitting
In the UK, you can expect the following price ranges:
- Basic towbar fitting: £500 – £1,500
- Towbar with electrics (7-pin or 13-pin): £700 – £1,800
- Full towing setup (for towing a car): £1,500 – £3,000+
These figures vary depending on the complexity of your vehicle and whether additional components are required.
🔧 What’s Included in the Cost?
A professional towbar installation typically includes:
- Towbar unit (vehicle-specific or custom-built)
- Mounting to chassis (not bodywork—this is critical)
- Electrical wiring for lights and indicators
- Testing and certification
- Labour costs
Higher-end installations may also include:
- Dedicated wiring kits (vehicle-specific electrics)
- Reinforcement brackets for heavier loads
Cost by Motorhome Type
Different motorhomes require different levels of work:
Campervans (e.g. VW Transporter style)
- £500 – £1,200
- Easier installation due to standard van chassis
Coachbuilt Motorhomes
- £800 – £2,000
- May need chassis extensions or specialist brackets
A-Class Motorhomes
- £1,200 – £3,000+
- Often require custom fabrication and more labour
Additional Costs to Consider
If you’re planning to tow more than just a small trailer, you may need extra equipment:
A-Frame Towing Setup
- £1,500 – £2,500
- Includes braking system for the towed car
Trailer for Car Transport
- £1,000 – £3,500+ (separate purchase)
Bike Rack or Storage Carrier
- £100 – £800
- May require a specific towbar rating
What Affects the Price?
Several key factors influence the final cost:
- Chassis compatibility: Some motorhomes need custom brackets
- Weight capacity: Heavier towing requires stronger systems
- Electrics complexity: Modern vehicles often need smart wiring kits
- Labour time: Some installs take a few hours, others a full day or more
- Brand quality: Premium towbar brands cost more but last longer
⚠️ Cheap vs Professional Installation
It’s tempting to go for the lowest quote—but with motorhomes, that can be risky.
A poorly fitted towbar can lead to:
- Structural damage to your motorhome
- Electrical faults
- Dangerous towing conditions
- Insurance issues if not fitted correctly
A professional installer ensures:
- Correct mounting to the chassis
- Safe towing capacity
- Full compliance with UK regulations
Is It Worth the Investment?
For most motorhome owners, a towbar pays for itself in convenience:
- Freedom to explore without moving your motorhome
- Ability to bring a small car (“toad”)
- Extra carrying capacity for bikes or storage
If you travel frequently, it quickly becomes an essential upgrade.
Final Thoughts
Motorhome towbar fitting in the UK typically costs anywhere from £500 to £3,000+, depending on your setup. While that’s a significant investment, it’s one that directly improves your travel flexibility and safety.
If you’re considering a towbar, the best next step is to get a tailored quote based on your motorhome and towing needs.
For a comprehensive and complete Motorhome towbar installation price, complete the online fitting form or give us a call on 0114 360 7080.
