You never want to drive your vehicle when it isn’t safe to do so. In some cases, your vehicle will determine whether you can drive it. If it breaks down completely, you obviously need a tow. What if it’s still operational, though? Safety first always, but then, you should call to tow your car to the shop under the following conditions according to Village Autoworks.
Smoke
If you see smoke coming from underneath your hood or the tailpipe, pull over immediately, kill the engine, and call for help. If you smell something burning in addition to the smoke, grab your fire extinguisher from the trunk – put a small one in there if you don’t have one – and extinguish any fire you see. If there is no fire but still smoke and a burning smell, stay put and call for a tow truck. Make sure to turn on your hazards and put out warning triangles while you wait to alert oncoming traffic.
Smells
Aside from burning smells, you should also call for a tow if you smell gasoline. Whether you are driving or your vehicle is parked in the garage, you should never smell gas. If you do notice fuel odor, again, pull over, turn off your vehicle, and call for a tow truck. Another reason to call for a tow is if you suddenly lose fluid or you notice a lot of fluid on your garage floor. Don’t drive your vehicle if it has a serious fluid leak. If you do, you’re bound to cause expensive engine damage.
Sounds
Sounds are another sign something is wrong with your vehicle and loud or grinding ones signal serious trouble. Pay attention to how your engine sounds when you first turn it on and as you drive. You should never hear grinding, knocking, screeching or whirring. If you do, stop and call a tow truck. In some cases, the sound might indicate a belt has broken inside the engine and continuing to drive could seriously damage it. Don’t take chances with funny sounds.
Dashboard Lights
Finally, today’s vehicle is equipped with an array of dashboard warning lights ready to tell drivers something is wrong. If any of them illuminate, stop driving and call for a tow. The warning lights are turned on by your automobile’s onboard computer which monitors vehicle systems constantly. Another time to call for a tow is if your car, truck or SUV suddenly becomes difficult to drive. Don’t operate an automobile you cannot handle. You’re asking for an accident if you do.
Village Autoworks has auto service shops in Roseville, MN, and Woodbury, MN. You can call us for a tow.