No one ever plans to be stranded on the side of the road, but unexpected car trouble happens more often than we'd like. Whether it's a flat tire, dead battery, or something more serious, a towing service can be your saving grace when things go wrong. Being prepared and understanding the situations that commonly require towing can reduce your stress and ensure your safety.
Here are the top 7 reasons you might need a towing service — and how to be ready for them.
1. Mechanical Breakdowns
Modern vehicles are more reliable than ever, but they're still machines—and machines break. Common mechanical issues like overheating, transmission failure, or engine trouble can leave you stranded in the middle of your commute.
How to be prepared: Keep up with regular maintenance, such as oil changes and fluid checks. Carry an emergency kit with basic tools, coolant, and a flashlight. But if you're not able to get the car running again, it's time to call a tow truck.
2. Flat Tires or Blowouts
A flat tire is one of the most common reasons drivers call for a tow. While many people carry a spare, not everyone knows how to change it, and some vehicles don't come with a spare at all.
How to be prepared: Check your tires regularly for wear and pressure. Carry a working jack, lug wrench, and a properly inflated spare tire. If you're uncomfortable changing the tire yourself or it's unsafe due to traffic or weather, a towing service can help either on the spot or by taking your car to a nearby repair shop.
3. Dead Battery
Whether you left the headlights on or your battery is just at the end of its life, a dead battery can stop you in your tracks. If there's no one around to give you a jump start, you might need a tow.
How to be prepared: Invest in a portable jump starter and keep it charged in your vehicle. Also, consider having your battery tested regularly, especially before winter or long trips. If the jump starter doesn't work, a tow truck can bring you to the nearest service station.
4. Accidents and Collisions
Even a minor fender bender can render a car undrivable. Whether it's a bent wheel, leaking fluids, or deployed airbags, it may not be safe to continue driving after an accident.
How to be prepared: Always have your insurance and registration information in the car. Know your insurance company's roadside assistance policy or keep a trusted towing service number saved in your phone. In the event of an accident, safety comes first—move to a safe spot and call for professional help.
5. Running Out of Fuel
It's more common than you might think. Misreading your fuel gauge or being overly confident in your car's range can leave you stranded far from the nearest gas station.
How to be prepared: Never let your fuel tank fall below a quarter full, especially on long trips or in rural areas. Some towing services offer fuel delivery, but if you're far out, they may tow you to the nearest station instead.
6. Car Stuck in Mud, Snow, or Sand
Slippery or unstable terrain can cause your vehicle to get stuck, especially if you don't have four-wheel drive. Whether it's mud after a storm or deep snow during winter, getting your vehicle free can be nearly impossible without assistance.
How to be prepared: Keep a small shovel, traction mats, or sand in your trunk. Know the road conditions before heading out, especially in rural or off-road areas. If you're stuck, a tow truck with a winch can help you out quickly and safely.
7. Overheating
An overheated engine can quickly turn into a serious problem. If your car starts smoking or your temperature gauge spikes, it's not worth risking further damage.
How to be prepared: Keep an eye on your temperature gauge and pull over if it rises too high. Don't try to drive "just a little farther" with an overheating engine. Have a towing service contact ready so you can get your car to a mechanic before costly damage is done.
Final Tips for Being Towing-Ready
While no one wants to need a tow, being ready can make all the difference in a stressful situation. Here's how to stay prepared:
- Save a trusted towing company's number in your phone. Look for 24/7 availability and good customer reviews.
- Subscribe to a roadside assistance program, such as AAA or your car insurance provider's service.
- Keep a roadside emergency kit in your vehicle, including a flashlight, jumper cables, water, first-aid supplies, and a phone charger.
- Know your location. If you break down, note any nearby mile markers, exits, or landmarks to help the towing service find you faster.
Conclusion
Towing services are there to help when the unexpected happens. From a dead battery in your driveway to a flat tire on the highway, knowing when to call for a tow—and being ready when it happens—can save you time, money, and frustration. Taking a few simple precautions can ensure that if you ever do find yourself stuck, help is just a phone call away.
