Quick answer: call a tow instead of driving if you see a red oil or temperature warning, smell burning, hear grinding from the brakes, have a flat or damaged tire with no usable spare, notice a leak under the car, can’t steer straight, or the car was in a crash that damaged wheels, lights or airbags.
Driving a car with a serious problem “just to the shop” can turn a repair into an engine replacement. Here are seven signs it’s time to stop and call a tow.
1. Red oil pressure or temperature warning
A red oil light means the engine isn’t getting oil pressure. A rising temperature gauge or steam from the hood means it’s overheating. Either one can ruin an engine in minutes. Pull over safely and turn it off.
2. A burning smell or smoke
Burning oil, coolant, rubber or electrical smells all point to something failing. If you see smoke, stop, get out and move away from the car.
3. Grinding, or a soft brake pedal
Metal-on-metal grinding, a pedal that sinks to the floor, or a brake warning light means you may not be able to stop. Don’t take the risk.
4. A flat or damaged tire without a usable spare
Driving on a flat destroys the tire and can damage the wheel. If your spare is missing or flat, a tow is the safer choice. See flat tire help.
5. Leaks under the car
Bright green, orange or pink fluid is usually coolant. Red can be transmission fluid. Brown or black is often oil. A big puddle means stop driving.
6. Steering or handling problems
If the car pulls hard to one side, the steering wheel shakes badly, or you hear clunking over bumps, something in the steering or suspension may be damaged.
7. Crash damage
After a collision, even a car that starts may not be safe. Bent wheels, broken lights, a damaged radiator or deployed airbags all mean it should be towed. See accident towing.
What about warning lights that aren’t red?
An amber check-engine light usually means you can drive carefully to a mechanic soon. If it’s flashing, the engine is misfiring and you should stop.
When in doubt
If you’re not sure, it’s cheaper to tow than to risk a bigger repair. Call or text 604-265-5888 and tell us what’s happening. If it’s something simple like a dead battery, we may be able to fix it on the spot.