There are few things more frustrating than being stranded on the side of the road due to an unexpected car breakdown. When this happens, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take. One of the most pressing questions you’ll face is whether you need to call for a tow truck. Knowing when it’s necessary to tow your vehicle can save you from risking further damage, injury, or costly repairs down the line. Let’s take a closer look at the circumstances where towing is a must.
Engine Failure or Overheating
An engine that suddenly dies or starts overheating is one of the clearest signs that you’ll need a tow. The damage can extend far beyond a broken radiator or water pump when the engine overheats. Continuing to drive an overheated vehicle can cause your engine to seize, warp cylinder heads, or lead to a blown head gasket – all of which are costly to repair.
If you notice steam billowing from the hood or your temperature gauge spikes into the red zone, pull over immediately and turn off the car. Driving even a short distance in this condition is too risky. At this point, towing your vehicle to the nearest repair shop is the safest option to prevent further engine damage.
Transmission Issues
A faulty transmission can leave you stranded without warning. If your car isn’t shifting gears properly, slips out of gear while driving, or refuses to move at all, it’s a sure sign something is wrong with the transmission. Unlike some car issues that can be temporarily ignored or dealt with on the side of the road, transmission problems require immediate attention.
Transmission failure often makes the vehicle inoperable or unsafe to drive. Continuing to drive with a malfunctioning transmission can lead to even more severe (and expensive) damage. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s time to call a tow truck.
Flat Tire or Multiple Tire Blowouts
While a single flat tire is usually a quick fix with a spare, things get trickier if you experience multiple tire blowouts or your spare tire isn’t available. Driving on a flat tire, even for a short distance, can damage the wheel or axle, leading to even more costly repairs.
If you have more than one flat tire at the same time, or you can’t change the tire safely due to road conditions, calling a tow is the best course of action. Not only does this protect your car from additional damage, but it also ensures your personal safety by not attempting to change the tire on the side of a busy road.
Brake Failure
Few things are more dangerous than driving a vehicle with malfunctioning brakes. If you notice that your brake pedal feels spongy, your car is taking longer to stop, or there’s a grinding noise when you apply the brakes, it’s a clear sign of brake trouble. This issue should never be ignored or postponed.
Driving with faulty brakes puts you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road in serious danger. In this situation, towing is essential to prevent accidents and ensure that your vehicle is repaired properly before hitting the road again.
Electrical System Problems
Your car's electrical system plays a crucial role in keeping everything running smoothly. If your dashboard lights flicker, your battery dies, or your vehicle suddenly loses power, it could be due to an electrical fault. Without a functioning electrical system, essential components like the lights, ignition, and fuel system might not work, leaving you stranded.
Electrical issues can be complex and often require specialized equipment to diagnose and fix. If your car loses power or won’t start due to electrical failure, it’s time to call for a tow and have a professional take a look.
Warning Lights and Dashboard Alerts
Modern cars come equipped with a range of dashboard warning lights designed to alert you when something isn’t functioning correctly. While not every warning light means an immediate need for towing, some signals should never be ignored.
For example, if your check engine light is blinking or your oil pressure warning comes on, continuing to drive can cause serious harm to your car. When your car’s computer detects a critical issue, pulling over and arranging for a tow could save you from extensive and expensive damage.
Accidents or Collisions
Even a minor accident can cause hidden damage to your vehicle. If you've been involved in a collision, whether it’s a fender bender or something more severe, it's always a good idea to have your car towed and inspected by professionals. Structural damage, misaligned wheels, or damaged suspension systems may not be immediately visible but can make your car unsafe to drive.
Attempting to drive after an accident could worsen the damage and put you at risk for further incidents. Towing ensures that your vehicle is handled with care and thoroughly checked for any underlying issues.
If you’ve experienced a breakdown, trust
NonStop Auto to provide the expert assistance you need. Whether it’s an engine failure, electrical problem, or flat tire, our team is ready to help you with efficient towing and repair solutions.
