Breaking down on the road isn’t something anyone looks forward to, but it happens. Whether it’s a busy morning commute in Sterling Heights or a weekend cruise through Royal Oak, car troubles can strike at the worst times. At Good Hands Towing, we see it all, and we’re here to not only help you when you need a tow but also to help you avoid getting stuck in the first place.
Here are the top five reasons your car might need a tow—and some practical tips to steer clear of them.
1. Dead Battery
Your battery powers your car’s electrical systems and gets your engine running. But over time, it wears down. Forgetting to turn off your lights or parking your car for too long without driving can also leave you stranded.
How to Avoid It:
- Test your battery regularly—especially before winter in Michigan’s cold climate.
- Look for warning signs like dim headlights or slow engine cranking.
- Replace your battery every 3-5 years or as recommended by your mechanic.
Pro tip: Always keep jumper cables or a portable jump starter in your trunk. They might save you from waiting for help when you’re in a hurry.
2. Flat Tire or Blowout
A puncture, worn-out tread, or hitting a pothole in Clawson can leave you on the side of the road. Flats are one of the most common reasons drivers call for a tow.
How to Avoid It:
- Check your tire pressure monthly. The proper PSI can be found in your owner’s manual or inside your driver-side door.
- Inspect your tires for nails, cracks, or uneven wear.
- Rotate your tires every 5,000-8,000 miles to keep the tread even.
Carrying a spare tire, jack, and lug wrench is great, but make sure you know how to use them. And don’t forget to check your spare’s pressure, too—it’s often overlooked.
3. Engine Overheating
A smoking hood or temperature gauge climbing into the red zone is a sign of an overheating engine. This could be caused by a coolant leak, a failed thermostat, or even a broken water pump.
How to Avoid It:
- Regularly check your coolant levels and top off if needed.
- Keep an eye out for leaks under your car.
- Schedule routine maintenance to ensure your radiator, hoses, and belts are in good shape.
If your engine overheats, pull over immediately to avoid costly damage. Don’t pop the hood until it cools down—it’s dangerous.
4. Transmission Failure
When your car doesn’t shift gears properly or refuses to move at all, you might be dealing with a transmission problem. This is a common issue we see in older vehicles or ones that haven’t been serviced regularly.
How to Avoid It:
- Check your transmission fluid levels and color. Dirty or low fluid can lead to serious issues.
- Pay attention to warning signs like slipping gears, grinding noises, or a delayed response when you shift.
- Have your transmission inspected and serviced per your car’s maintenance schedule.
A little care now can save you thousands in repair bills later.
5. Running Out of Gas
It happens more often than you’d think. Whether you underestimated how far your gas gauge could go or got stuck in traffic around Birmingham, running out of fuel can leave you stranded.
How to Avoid It:
- Don’t let your tank drop below a quarter full—it’s good for your fuel pump and keeps you prepared for unexpected delays.
- Plan ahead for long trips by identifying fuel stops along your route.
- Keep an emergency gas can in your car (make sure it’s empty and safe for storage).
While calling for a tow is always an option, running out of gas is one of the easiest problems to prevent with a little planning.
Why Choose Good Hands Towing?
At Good Hands Towing, we’ve got your back in Clawson, Utica, Birmingham, Madison Heights, Warren, Troy, and all surrounding areas. If you need a tow, let us know! Call us at (586)707-8678 anytime.
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Quick Checklist to Avoid Breakdowns
- Test your battery regularly and replace it when needed.
- Inspect tires for wear and maintain proper PSI.
- Monitor your car’s coolant and look for leaks.
- Keep up with routine maintenance for your engine and transmission.
- Always keep at least a quarter tank of gas.
Being prepared doesn’t just save time; it saves money and stress, too. But if trouble strikes, you know who to call.
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