Roadside Assistance is not something normally on the minds of most people. That is, unless it’s actually needed during an unforeseen event or emergency that can’t be handled on their own. And frankly, although we make a living from towing and roadside assistance services, we hate to see people in distress. We also believe that a knowledgeable customer makes the best customer.
That’s why today we’re going to talk about common sense habits and hacks to reduce your chances of needing road side assistance.
Get to Know Your Vehicle
Most people chuck their owners manual in the glove box or in the trash after purchasing their car or truck. What they should do is read the owner’s manual thoroughly from front to back so you know how all the controls work, where the fuse panel is, and the essential function and location of the engine parts under the hood. If you purchase a pre-owned vehicle that does not come with its original manual, you can find many manuals online or purchase manuals through the manufacturer’s website, but having and understanding all the information provided is essential.
It’s especially important that you are familiar with the various warning lights on the dashboard, from the basic indicator of how much gasoline is in the tank, to warning lights that indicate low tire pressure, low oil pressure, low windshield washer fluid, and particularly the “check engine” light. You should check those each and every time you get in the car, and if there is a problem, make an appointment with your dealer or private mechanic immediately to have the problem checked and repaired if necessary.
Regular Maintenance and Fluids
This section fit squarely in the “Well, duh!” category, but you’d be surprised in the number of people we help that could’ve avoided a $200 service call and $700 repair had they simply kept up with basic vehicle maintenance.
Windshield Washer Fluid
Don’t get into an accident because you didn’t have washer fluid. It’s inexpensive and can be purchased at any grocery store, hardware store, or general department store. You can easily replace the windshield washer fluid yourself; it is essential to see if you find yourself driving in a snow storm or on wet/salty roads.
Tire Pressure
Check tire pressure and the oil level weekly (more often if you drive a long commute daily or are on a long road trip), and check to be sure front and rear lights are working (some cars have dashboard warning lights for these as well, but it’s a good idea to check anyway).
Periodic Check Ups
Engine Coolant Level and the battery should be checked monthly, along with a regular inspection under the hood. Tires should be checked and rotated every six months, as well as brake fluid check and transmission fluid check. Struts and shock absorbers should be checked and replaced if necessary, and alignment checked and readjusted at the same time if possible, about once a year.
Stay Fueled
Running out of fuel is about the most avoidable of all roadside service calls we get. This one is all about common sense: Make sure to keep at least a half-tank of gas in the car at all times. It doesn’t cost you any more than riding on fumes, and it will give you priceless peace of mind.
Roadside Assistance Preparation
In addition to making sure that your car is working at optimum and is up-to-date on inspections of all working part, there are some other things that will help to ensure your safety should your car break down unexpectedly.
For many drivers, particularly those who live in areas where extreme weather is a concern or sparsely populated areas – preparing a car survival kit ahead of time could be the difference between life and death.
This survival kit should include a bit of up-to-date preserved or non-perishable food, a couple blankets, a first aid kit, a pair of jumper cables or a purchased battery jump device, gloves and other winter gear, a working prepaid cell phone, a small hand-crank radio and gloves and a winter hat.
Roadside Assistance – There When You Need Us 24 Hours A Day
If you do happen to need emergency road service why not call the best? Top Dogz Towing in Charlotte NC offers comprehensive, professional roadside assistance services available 24 hours a day – every day. And because we’re centrally located in Charlotte, we can guarantee our arrival at your location within 30 minutes of your call or sooner.
Whether you’re in need of jump-start assistance, you have locked keys in car, or you’ve been involved in an accident and need a flatbed tow truck, you will always receive best-in-class service from Top Dogz Towing.
- Versatile tow truck options to meet all your emergency needs.
- 4.5 Star Positive Review Rating in Google according to our customers.
- Affordable rates available for onsite battery, locksmith, and flat tire service.
- 24 hour service available day or night, and close to where you need us.
- Able to service nearby Rock Hill, Gastonia, and Matthews
- Experienced top professionals able to troubleshoot your car troubles onsite.
- Flatbed tow trucks available if transportation required to mechanic or wrecker
Although we can hope we never have unplanned car breakdown, it’s a good idea to plan for the worst. Part of that plan should include a basic roadside emergency kit…