When your car starts acting up, it’s natural to want to get back on the road as soon as possible. However, sometimes trying to drive your vehicle can make things worse, or even put you in danger. Knowing when to call for a tow truck instead of attempting to drive can save you from costly repairs, unsafe situations, or getting stranded far from help.
At Charleston Towing and Roadside, we’re a towing company that has seen it all, and we want you to stay safe and smart when car trouble strikes. In this blog, we’ll explore the top five signs you need a tow instead of trying to drive your vehicle.
1. Your Engine is Overheating
If your dashboard temperature gauge shoots into the red zone or you see steam rising from under your hood, your engine is overheating, and that’s a serious warning. Driving an overheated car can cause severe damage, such as a blown head gasket or warped engine components, leading to expensive repairs.
If you notice your engine getting too hot, stop driving immediately. Turn off the engine, let it cool down, and call Charleston Towing and Roadside for a safe tow to a trusted mechanic. Trying to push through with an overheated engine isn’t worth the risk or cost.
2. You Hear Strange Noises
Clunking, grinding, squealing, or banging noises coming from your vehicle are usually not good signs. If the sounds come from your engine, brakes, or transmission, it’s a red flag you shouldn’t ignore—for example, grinding noises when braking could indicate that your brake pads are dangerously worn down. Loud knocking or clunking from the engine can indicate loose or broken parts that might fail if you keep driving.
If you hear anything unusual and can’t identify it, it’s safest to call a tow truck. Continuing to drive could make the problem worse or lead to a breakdown in a worse location.
3. Your Car Won’t Start or Keeps Stalling
If your car won’t start at all or repeatedly stalls while driving, it’s a sign that something serious is wrong, and trying to keep it going could be dangerous. Repeated stalling may indicate that your fuel pump, ignition system, or engine control unit is malfunctioning. This can cause you to lose power while driving, increasing the risk of an accident.
If your car refuses to start or stalls frequently, don’t risk it on the road. Call Charleston Towing and Roadside to get your car safely to a repair shop before it leaves you stranded in a dangerous spot.
4. You Have a Flat Tire or Multiple Tire Issues
A flat tire is one of the most common roadside problems. If you have a spare tire and the tools to change it safely, great. However, if you don’t, or if your tire is severely damaged or multiple tires are affected, it’s better to call a tow truck. Driving on a flat or severely damaged tire can ruin your wheel, cause loss of control, and damage your suspension system. Additionally, on Charleston’s busy streets or highways, changing a tire on the side of the road may not be safe, especially at night or in adverse weather conditions.
A quick call to Charleston Towing and Roadside can get you off the road safely and back on your way with minimal hassle.
5. You Smell Burning or Notice Fluid Leaks
Burning smells, such as rubber, oil, or electrical wiring, while driving or after stopping, are serious warning signs. They can indicate overheated brakes, a slipping belt, leaking fluids, or even an electrical short that could start a fire. Similarly, if you see puddles of fluid underneath your vehicle, whether it’s red, green, brown, or clear, this indicates that your car is leaking a vital fluid, such as coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, or oil.
Ignoring these signs can cause further damage or a roadside emergency. Instead of trying to drive, call for a tow and have a professional inspect and fix the problem safely.
Trust Your Gut and Err on the Side of Safety
If something doesn’t feel right about your car, whether it’s handling poorly, vibrating unusually, or just “off” in any way, it’s better to be cautious. Don’t wait until you’re stuck or the problem worsens. Charleston Towing and Roadside is always ready to provide quick, safe towing and roadside assistance. When in doubt, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’re here to help keep you and your vehicle safe on Charleston’s roads.
Why Choosing a Tow Can Save You Time and Money
Attempting to drive a damaged vehicle can sometimes result in even more extensive repair bills or total engine failure. Additionally, breakdowns in unsafe locations or during heavy traffic increase the risk to your safety and that of other drivers.
Getting a professional tow means:
- Your vehicle is safely moved without causing more damage
- You avoid expensive repairs from worsening problems
- You reduce the chance of accidents or being stranded
- You get peace of mind knowing experts are handling the situation
Trust Charleston Towing and Roadside for Reliable, Affordable Towing Service in the Charleston Area
Whether it’s day or night, rain or shine, Charleston Towing and Roadside is your trusted partner for fast, reliable towing and roadside assistance services in the Lowcountry. If you notice any of these signs or feel unsure about your car’s condition, don’t hesitate to reach out. From fast and reliable response times to great customer service, it’s easy to see why we’re the premier provider of roadside services throughout South Carolina.