When to Call a Towing Company: New Driver’s Guide
Towing Company in Calgary: 7 Common Issues New Driver Can Face
Congrats on getting your driver’s license! Driving is exciting and gives you the freedom to go where you want. But being a new driver means you might face some car problems that you don’t know how to fix yet. Don’t stress! Every expert was once a beginner.
One important thing to know is when it’s time to stop trying to fix the problem yourself and call for professional help. A good towing company in Calgary can come to your rescue quickly and safely. This guide will explain clear signs that it’s time to call a towing company. If you just got your driving license, these tips will make you feel more confident every time you drive.
When Should New Drivers Call for a Towing Company
As a new driver, it’s normal to feel unsure when your car has trouble. You might wonder if you can keep driving or fix the issue on your own. But some car problems need expert help to avoid making things worse.
Calling for towing services will:
Keeps you safe.
Protects your car from more damage.
Saves money by preventing bigger repairs later.
Gives you peace of mind so you don’t have to stress or guess what to do.
1. Dashboard Warning Light Come On?
Your car’s dashboard has special lights that tell you if something is not right. These warning lights include the check engine, oil, brake, battery, and others.
What Does It Mean When The Lights Come On?
- Check Engine Light: This means your engine or another system requires attention. It may be a minor issue or something serious.
- Oil Light: Means you might be low in engine oil, or there is an issue with the oil system.
- Brake Light: Your brakes might not be working properly.
- Battery Light: There could be a problem with your battery.
What Should You Do?
If one or more warning lights are on, stop driving as soon as you can. Don't ignore the lights or keep driving for too long because that could cause big damage or be dangerous.
Call a towing company in Calgary to take your vehicle to a mechanic to check it out. Driving with the warning light on can lead to costly repairs or cause your car to break down suddenly.
2. Strange Noises Coming From the Car
Your vehicle could start making noises you never heard before, like grinding, knocking, clunking or squealing.
What Could Noises Mean?
- Grinding: This could be a sign that your brakes are failing.
- Squealing: This could be a sign of an issue with your belts or brakes.
- Knocking: This might mean your engine is having problems.
- Clunking: This could mean something is loose in your suspension or steering.
What Should You Do?
If your vehicle starts making strange noises, find a safe place to pull over and stop driving. Don’t try to keep going because you could be causing more damage.
Reach out to a towing company to get your vehicle to a local mechanic for a check-up. Let the experts diagnose the problem before it causes more damage.
3. Smoke or Steam from Under the Hood
If you notice smoke or steam coming from under the hood, it usually means your car is overheating or there’s a leak.
Why Is This Serious?
Overheating can cause severe engine damage. It can happen because of low coolant, a broken radiator, or a bad hose. Smoke could also mean oil or other fluids are leaking.
What Should You Do?
Turn off your engine right away. Get your car out of traffic and into a safe area.
Don’t try to open the hood right away because steam or hot fluids can hurt you.
A towing company in Calgary will get your car to a repair shop safely.
4. Flat or Damaged Tire
Flat tires are very common, especially for new drivers who might not have experience changing them.
What Are the Risks?
Driving on a flat or damaged tire can ruin your rim and suspension. It's dangerous and could lead to an accident.
If you don't know how to change a tire or don't have the tools or a spare, don't try to fix it yourself on a busy road or bad weather.
What Should You Do?
If you get a flat and can’t fix it safely, call a towing company. They can help you change the tire or tow your car to the nearby repair shop.
5. Your Car Won't Start or Keep Stalling
Your car might fail to start, or it could start and then suddenly stop running.
Why Could This Happen?
It could be a dead battery, empty gas tank, or mechanical problem.
What Should You Do?
If your car doesn't start, try restarting it once you're in a safe location. If it still doesn't work, call a towing company. Many towing companies offer battery jump-starts or can tow your vehicle for repair.
If your car stalls while driving, safely pull over and call for help. Don't try to drive if your car is acting unpredictably.
6. Stuck in Snow, Mud or Ditch
Calgary weather can change fast, and sometimes you might get stuck.
Why Is This Dangerous?
Trying to get out by spinning your wheels or pushing the car can cause more damage.
What Should You Do?
Stay calm and don’t keep trying to get out on your own.
Call a towing company in Calgary that has the right tools to safely pull your car out.
7. Accident or Collision
Even a minor accident can make your car unsafe to drive.
What Should You Do?
Check yourself and passengers for injuries. If it’s safe to move, get your vehicle out of the traffic.
Call the police if needed, then call a towing company to take your car to a repair shop or safe location.
How to Choose the Right Towing Company
When calling for help, you want a towing company that is reliable and professional.
Here are some tips:
Open 24/7: Car trouble can happen at any hour. Choose a towing company that is always there to help you.
Good Reviews: Search online for positive reviews for towing companies. Ask friends or family for recommendations.
Licensed and Insured: Licensing and insurance usually mean the towing company is a true professional and will also protect your vehicle during the towing process.
Cost: Ensure you ask the provider about their fees before receiving a tow, this way you can avoid surprise fees after getting the service.
Fast response time: You want the towing company to respond quickly to help, especially if you are in an unsafe area or in bad weather.
What to do While Waiting for Help
If you are waiting for your towing company to arrive:
Stay inside your vehicle if you are in an unsafe area or near a busy roadway.
Keep your hazard lights on to warn other drivers.
Have your phone charged and call for assistance when possible.
Try to remain calm; do not attempt to fix serious issues by yourself.
Can I Fix It or Should I Call a Towing Company in Calgary
Sometimes, it’s hard to know if you should try fixing a car problem yourself or call for help. This easy chart will help you decide what to do in different situations.
Safety Tips for New Drivers
Being a new driver means learning as you go. Here are a few safety tips:
Always check your car before driving: tires, lights, and fuel.
Keep emergency numbers saved in your phone, including a towing company.
Carry a small emergency kit: water, flashlight, basic tools, and a phone charger.
Learn how to change a tire safely, but don’t hesitate to call for help if you’re unsure.
Practice safe driving habits, especially in bad weather.
Final Thoughts
Driving is a big step, and it's completely normal to feel nervous or unsure at first. Every driver, even the most experienced one could run into car trouble from time to time. The important thing is knowing what to do when something goes wrong.
If you ever feel unsafe, confused, or unsure about a problem with your car, don't take chances. It's always better to call a trusted towing company in Calgary and let the experts handle it. That way, you stay safe, protect your car, and avoid more serious (and expensive) problems down the road.
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