Some of the most common reasons drivers need a tow include, breakdowns, overheating, flat tires, or a dead battery. All of those are primarily avoided by adhering to a basic vehicle maintenance checklist.
Adding these things to your calendar or taking care of them yourself (most of them can be learned by watching YouTube videos) is the best way to prevent breakdowns or car malfunctions that lead to you calling a towing company.
Read your vehicle manual and adhere to their recommendations for oil changes. When the engine lacks oil, it seizes up. The simple act of getting your oil changed can save you the need for a tow - and having to scrap the car with the seized engine.
Most newer cars require oil changes every 5000 miles, and older cars may need them as often as every 3000 miles.
Just because you’re changing the oil as recommended doesn’t mean there isn’t a latent leak that’s draining oil faster than you’re aware. Checking the oil level is the best way to keep on top of that, and we recommend doing it every other or every three gas station stops. Also, keep an eye on the ground underneath your common parking spots for any evidence of oil drips that a licensed mechanic should investigate.
Overheating engines is a common issue on the freeways, especially during peak traffic times or hot days when the engine doesn’t benefit from air cooling. Your coolant tank is a big plastic container, usually towards the front or side of the engine, where you can easily access it.
It may have a symbol like a thermometer or an outline of a tank with fluid at the bottom. It might also have a warning symbol showing you NOT to open it if the car is overheating (this can lead to a pressure change that spews overheated fluid up and out of the engine, which can cause severe burns). If you get your oil changed regularly, they’ll top off the fluids for you. However, as with oil leaks, there are engine issues that can burn through coolant, so it’s worth checking the coolant levels as well. If no coolant is available, water will do the trick until you get to your mechanic. But again, NEVER open the coolant container when an engine is hot or overheating. Wait until it cools down.
Air filters are cheap when you purchase them at a local auto parts store, and they’re simple to replace. Just follow the instructions in your vehicle manual. If you live in a rural area or along a dirt driveway you may need to change the air filter more regularly. This also prevents the car from overheating. Routine air filter changes optimize gas mileage and protect the life of your engine.
Rotating the tires every 5000 miles (or as per manufacturer’s recommendations) is recommended to keep tires wearing evenly, which protects the vehicle’s structural integrity, makes for a more comfortable ride, and evenly distributes wear-and-tear on tires. Your tire professional also checks the brakes and will let you know if you are ready for a new set of tires. This one service can prevent you from ever getting a flat.
Just about every gas station in the Bay Area has an air station to check tire pressure and add air if needed. Take a look at all four tires while you’re plumbing your gas. If one looks at all low, drive it over and check the pressure. The recommended tire pressure for both front and rear tires appears in your vehicle manual. If you have custom tires or rims, that information is provided by the tire dealer.
Your vehicle manual outlines specific mileage numbers for maintenance. This schedule is created based on the life expectancy of certain parts. The key here is to take the time to find an honest and reputable mechanic who won’t upsell unnecessary parts replacement just because you’re at a specific mileage. You want to find a trustworthy, licensed mechanic who provides honest service without any cheating.
Never ignore the “check engine,” “oil level,” or other warning lights that appear on the dash. These are there for a reason. We know busy schedules make it difficult at times, but we can’t tell you how many people have called us for a tow and met us with the words, “The check engine light came on last week, and I’ve been meaning to get to it…”
Once per month, do a light check. If the person behind you can’t see you or the signal lights burn out, you are more likely to be in an accident once the sun sets or in inclement weather. This check takes no more than five minutes.
Hot weather is more likely to drain the battery. Your windshield wipers need to be in good shape for rainy weather. Tires also need to be replaced sooner during wet weather than dry if the tread is low. Performing seasonal checks of car features designed to support the climate can keep you safe and prevent your need for a tow.
Even the most diligent of car owners need a tow once in a while, even if they do their best to honor vehicle maintenance checklists. If you fall under that category, contact us here at JT Towing, or Call Now at (707) 356-4613, and one of our friendly and reliable tow truck drivers will be on his way to the rescue. We’re on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
