Posted on September 7th, 2023

We've all had one of those days. Imagine this: you're driving along a peaceful road in McKinney, the sun setting in the horizon, music playing, and then suddenly — disaster strikes. 

Your car breaks down without any warning, and you find yourself stranded. It’s in moments like these that recognizing the signs that it’s time to call a tow truck becomes incredibly vital. 

Not only for your safety but for the health of your vehicle too. 

Whether it’s a flat tire, engine troubles, or any other unexpected issue, knowing when and how to call for roadside assistance can be a real game-changer. 

In this blog post, we'll dive into the five major signs that it's time to pick up that phone and get professional help.

1. Unexpected Engine Shutdown

It's every driver's nightmare: you're cruising along, and suddenly your engine sputters to a halt. An unexpected engine shutdown can be daunting, and if you're in unfamiliar territory, even a little frightening.

Ever found yourself cruising along Highway 75, only to hear a dreaded noise that signals your journey might be cut short? Engine issues are a leading cause for calls to towing services, and they often come without warning.

Signs your engine might fail:

• Odd noises: If your car begins making unfamiliar sounds, it's often an indication that something's amiss.
• Warning lights on the dashboard: Those lights aren’t just for decoration. They're your car's way of telling you something's wrong.
• Reduced power or jerking movements: Feeling like your car is struggling? This might be a sign of imminent engine problems.

Why you should call a tow truck:

Safety first! If your engine shuts down unexpectedly, it can be dangerous to try and troubleshoot on a busy road. Further attempts to start or drive the car can lead to more extensive damage. Also, engine complications can be multifaceted, requiring expert hands. Rather than risk it, it's often best to call a professional towing company to safely transport your vehicle to a service station.

2. Flat Tire (and No Spare!)

You're driving, humming along to your favorite tune, when suddenly, there's a flapping sound from below. Flat tires! They can strike at the most inconvenient times. And while many of us have experienced the initial panic, the real crisis hits when you realize you don’t have a spare.

Most drivers will face a flat tire situation at some point in their driving journey. It's almost like an unwelcome rite of passage. However, being armed with knowledge (and a spare tire) can make all the difference. But what if that spare is missing or unusable?

Signs you have a flat tire:

• Flapping noises: This is often the first sign. If you hear a sudden, repetitive noise, it's time to pull over.
• Steering feels "off": A flat tire can drastically affect your steering, making the car pull to one side.
• Warning light or indicator: Modern vehicles have tire pressure monitoring systems that alert you when there’s an issue.

How to call a tow truck for tire issues:

So, you’ve determined it’s a flat and there’s no spare in sight. Don’t fret! This is where professionals come in. A local towing company can provide roadside tire replacement services. Instead of trying to drive on a flat (which can cause further damage), it's safer and more efficient to call for assistance. Plus, with the right service, you might be back on the road quicker than changing the tire yourself!

3. Out Of Fuel In The Middle Of Nowhere

We've all said, "I know my car," when the fuel light comes on, thinking we can make it just a few more miles. But sometimes, the car (and the empty fuel tank) gets the last laugh.

It's somewhat embarrassing and certainly inconvenient to run out of fuel. The open roads of Texas are vast and beautiful, but they can also be quite isolating if you find yourself miles away from the nearest gas station with an empty tank.

Signs you're running low on fuel:

• Ignoring the fuel light: It's not just a suggestion; it's a warning. If it's on, you're running low.
• Engine starts sputtering: This is your car's way of telling you it's thirsty.
• Loss of power in acceleration: When the fuel runs critically low, you’ll notice a significant drop in your car's performance.

Towing vs. Fuel Delivery:

So, the tank's empty; what now? You have a couple of options. If you’re close to a gas station and it's safe, you could walk. But often, especially in remote areas, it's not feasible. A local towing company can offer fuel delivery services right to your location, ensuring you get back on the road safely. If for some reason, a simple fuel delivery won't cut it (maybe there are other issues at play), towing your vehicle to a nearby service station might be the best bet.

4. Dead Battery In The Worst Possible Place

It's a crisp morning, you're running late for an appointment, and you rush to your car, only to hear... nothing. The radio, the lights, everything's dead. Batteries have a sneaky way of dying at the least opportune moments, don't they?

Battery problems are like the flu of the automotive world: common and inconvenient. While often a dead battery can be a simple fix, it can turn into a real headache when you're parked in a tight spot or are away from civilization.

Signs your battery might be dying:

• Slow engine crank: When you try to start the car, and it cranks slowly or takes multiple tries, this is often a telltale sign.
• Flickering lights: If your headlights or cabin lights are dim or flickering, your battery might be on its last legs.
• Electrical issues: This includes things like power windows moving slower than usual or the radio not working properly.

How a local towing company can help:

So, you've determined it's a battery issue. Now what? Well, calling a trusted local towing company can be your saving grace. Many offer dead battery jumpstart services to get you back on the road swiftly. If the battery is beyond a simple jumpstart or if there's a deeper electrical issue, a tow to your preferred mechanic or service station will ensure your car gets the care it needs.

5. Involved In An Accident

The unexpected blare of a horn, the screeching of tires, and that heart-dropping thud. Accidents, whether minor fender-benders or more serious collisions, are jarring and can leave even the most experienced drivers shaken.

Accidents are not only emotionally and physically traumatic, but they also often result in vehicles that aren't roadworthy. And while the initial reaction might be to try and drive away or move the car, it's essential to assess whether it's safe to do so.

Signs your vehicle isn’t safe to drive post-accident:

• Leaking fluids: If you see any liquids pooling under your car post-accident, it's best not to risk driving.
• Odd noises or smoke: Sounds you've never heard before or smoke coming from any part of the vehicle are bad signs.
• Visible structural damage: This includes things like a bent axle or a door that won't close properly.

Why towing is often the safest option post-accident:

Accidents can result in hidden damages that aren't immediately apparent. Driving a compromised vehicle can pose significant risks to you and other road users. By opting for a tow, you ensure the safety of everyone on the road. Plus, insurance companies often prefer (or even require) that vehicles involved in accidents be towed to avoid further damage or complications.

Conclusion

Throughout our driving journeys, we'll invariably encounter some hitches — it's practically a rite of passage for vehicle owners. But being prepared and knowing when it's time to call in professional help is vital. From unexpected engine shutdowns to the sudden realization that you're out of fuel, life throws curveballs. Recognizing the signs and knowing when to call a tow truck can save you not just time and money, but also unnecessary stress. 

Remember, your safety, and the safety of your vehicle, always comes first. Instead of taking risks, lean on the expertise of professionals. For all your towing and roadside assistance needs, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact RoadAngel Towing & Roadside Service at (972) 954-9711 or email us at [email protected]. For more on our top-rated Towing Service, check out our dedicated page. 

Stay safe, drive responsibly, and always choose the right help for your vehicle!