Which Car Problems Require Towing?

When you find yourself stranded on the roadside, you probably assume you need towing. Depending on the issue, you might be right.

But before you call a tow service, it’s smart to double check: Does your car problem actually require towing, or could a quick fix help you continue on your way?

Engine or Transmission Failure

You’re humming a tune on your way to work … until smoke starts pouring out from under your hood. Whether your car’s engine or transmission is clattering, overheating, smoking or seizing, you need towing.

An auto mechanic can make a professional diagnosis and will have the parts available to help. There is no roadside repair that will solve any engine or transmission problems.

Damaging Accident

A minor fender bender is one thing, but a complete wreck? You’re definitely going to need towing. If any parts of your car are missing, or the car is not drivable until it is looked at by a mechanic, you need to call a tow truck.

Dead Battery That Won’t Charge

Many roadside assistance companies or towing services offer battery charging. If you find your car unresponsive, a dead battery may very well be the issue. However, when batteries are past their useful life, no charge can bring them back to life. Also, in some cases, the reason the battery died could be related to another issue. This is when towing is necessary.

Which Issues Can Be Fixed on the Spot?

Out of gas? You can call a towing service that offers emergency fuel delivery. You don’t necessarily need your car towed, unless you have a leak in the fuel line that may have drained the gas tank.

Do you have a flat tire? If you have the tools, skills and materials needed to replace it with a spare, you might be able to be on your way without contacting a tow service at all. However, if your vehicle doesn’t have a spare or jack on board and your fix-a-flat kit isn’t producing results, you can call a tow service to help. The towing professional may be able to repair the tire at the scene, or they can provide transport if the car needs to be taken to a mechanic.

Locked your keys in your car? You can call a tow service that has the tools and capabilities to access your vehicle without causing damage. If you’ve lost your keys, this might be a problem that necessitates towing.

At Stauffer’s Towing, you get professional service from a team that’s able to help with all types of car problems, regardless of whether they require towing. From fuel delivery to flat repair, trust Stauffer’s Towing for all of your roadside assistance and towing needs.