Unexpected car problems can be stressful, especially when they leave you stranded with a broken-down vehicle. Instead of attempting DIY fixes on the roadside, it’s often wiser and safer to have your car towed to a professional auto repair shop. But do auto repair shops tow?
In this article, we’ll delve into the scenarios where towing to a mechanic is the best course of action, explore the expenses associated with towing services, and guide you on how to prepare for the towing process. We’ll also address frequently asked questions to give you a comprehensive understanding of car towing and how auto repair shops fit into the picture.
When Do You Need to Tow Your Car to an Auto Repair Shop?
Knowing when to call for a tow truck can save you from further vehicle damage and ensure your safety. Here are common situations where towing your car to a repair shop is necessary:
1. Flat Tires
While changing a flat tire yourself is possible, it’s not always safe or feasible, especially on busy roads or highways. Driving on a flat tire, even for a short distance, can severely damage your wheel and suspension system.
Opting for a towing service is a safer choice, particularly if you’re in a hazardous location or lack the tools or confidence to change the tire yourself. Towing ensures your vehicle reaches a repair shop without risking additional damage. If you’re wondering “do auto repair shops tow for flat tires?”, the answer is indirectly. While shops themselves might not have tow trucks, they often work with or recommend towing services to bring your vehicle in for repair.
2. Accidents
Car accidents, even minor ones, can compromise your vehicle’s safety and functionality. Even if there’s no visible damage, critical components like brakes, steering, or alignment could be affected. Driving after an accident without a thorough inspection by a mechanic is risky.
In accident scenarios, towing is crucial. It allows professionals to assess the damage accurately at a repair shop. “Do auto repair shops tow after accidents?” Again, they usually facilitate towing through partnerships to ensure vehicles are safely transported for necessary repairs and bodywork.
3. Battery Issues
A dead battery can be jump-started, but recurring battery problems or alternator failures indicate a deeper issue. Continuously jump-starting your car without addressing the root cause can lead to further electrical system damage.
If you experience persistent battery drain or suspect alternator issues, towing your car to a repair shop is advisable. Mechanics can diagnose the electrical problem accurately and perform the necessary repairs or replacements. “Do auto repair shops tow for battery problems?” Towing is often the recommended solution to get your car to the shop for battery or electrical system diagnosis and repair.
4. Engine Overheating
Engine overheating is a serious warning sign that can lead to significant and costly engine damage. Driving with an overheated engine can cause warping of the cylinder head or even engine seizure.
If your temperature gauge spikes or you see steam coming from under the hood, pull over immediately and turn off the engine. Towing is essential in this situation to prevent further engine damage. Repair shops can diagnose the cause of overheating, whether it’s a coolant leak, thermostat issue, or radiator problem. “Do auto repair shops tow for overheating engines?” Yes, towing is the safest way to get your overheated car to a mechanic to prevent extensive damage.
5. Breakdowns (Car Won’t Start)
When your car refuses to start, it could be due to various reasons, from fuel delivery problems to ignition system failures. Attempting to self-diagnose and fix the issue on the roadside can be time-consuming and potentially worsen the problem.
Towing your car to a repair shop allows qualified mechanics to perform a comprehensive diagnosis and pinpoint the starting issue efficiently. “Do auto repair shops tow when the car won’t start?” Towing is the most reliable way to get a non-starting vehicle to a professional for diagnosis and repair.
6. Smoke or Noise
Unusual smoke or loud, unfamiliar noises from your car are indicators of potential mechanical problems. Smoke, depending on its color, can signal serious engine issues. Strange noises could point to problems with belts, bearings, or other components.
In such cases, towing to a repair shop is a prudent decision. Mechanics can investigate the source of the smoke or noise and address the underlying issue before it escalates into a more significant and expensive repair. “Do auto repair shops tow for smoke or unusual noises?” Towing is recommended to ensure safe transportation to the shop for investigation of these warning signs.
7. Malfunctioning Steering or Brakes
Issues with steering or brakes are critical safety hazards. Problems like stiff steering, power steering failure, spongy brakes, or brake failure require immediate attention. Driving with compromised steering or brakes is extremely dangerous.
Professional towing is absolutely necessary when you experience steering or brake malfunctions. Repair shops can thoroughly inspect and repair these critical systems, ensuring your vehicle is safe to drive again. “Do auto repair shops tow for steering or brake problems?” Towing is essential in these situations to prevent accidents and allow for immediate professional repair of these safety-critical systems.
How Much Does Towing to an Auto Repair Shop Cost?
The cost of towing varies depending on several factors, primarily the distance your car needs to be towed. Here’s a general cost breakdown based on distance:
- Short Distance (Less than 5 miles): $35 to $125
- Medium Distance (Up to 40 miles): $125 to $275
- Long Distance (Up to 100 miles): $275 to $600
The average towing cost typically ranges from $2.50 to $7 per mile. Specialized towing services, like those requiring a winch or boom for difficult extractions, can add an extra $50 to $250 to the total cost.
It’s always worth checking your car insurance policy, as many include roadside assistance coverage, which can significantly reduce or even cover towing expenses.
Preparing Your Car for Towing to an Auto Repair Shop
Proper preparation can streamline the towing process and ensure a smoother experience. Here’s what you should do when preparing your vehicle for towing:
- Move to a Safe Location: If your car is still movable, pull it off the road to a safe area, away from traffic. If it’s completely immobile, and it’s safe to do so, try to push it to the side of the road.
- Activate Hazard Lights: Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to your broken-down vehicle.
- Notify Your Insurance: Contact your insurance provider to understand your coverage for towing and if they have preferred towing companies.
- Document the Vehicle’s Condition: Take photos of your car, especially if it was involved in an accident. This documentation can be helpful for insurance claims and to verify the vehicle’s condition before towing.
- Determine Your Location: Accurately identify your location to provide to the towing company. Use GPS apps on your phone if needed. For nighttime towing, specifically search for “24-hour towing service near me.”
- Remove Valuables: Take out any personal belongings and important documents from your car, as towing companies are not responsible for lost or stolen items.
- Wait Safely: Wait for the tow truck in a safe location away from the vehicle and the road, especially at night.
- Inform the Police (Optional): Contacting the local police can be helpful, especially if your car is in a hazardous location, to prevent tickets or unauthorized towing.
When the tow truck arrives, be prepared to complete any necessary paperwork with the driver. They will guide you on putting your car in neutral or taking other steps based on the type of tow truck being used.
FAQs About Auto Repair Shop Towing
Here are some common questions about towing your car to an auto repair shop:
1. What Should I Find Out Before Agreeing to a Tow?
Before you agree to a tow, gather essential information from the towing service to avoid surprises later. Key questions to ask include:
- Type of Tow Truck: Inquire about the type of tow truck they will use (flatbed, wheel-lift, etc.) to ensure it’s appropriate for your vehicle.
- Destination Flexibility: Ask if they can tow your car to your preferred auto repair shop.
- Alternative Destination: If they can’t tow to your chosen shop, find out where they will take the vehicle.
- Drop-off Timing: Confirm when they will drop off your vehicle at the repair shop.
- Cost Estimate: Get a clear price estimate for the towing service to avoid unexpected charges.
2. Types of Tow Trucks Used by Repair Shops
Towing companies and, by extension, auto repair shops that offer towing services utilize different types of tow trucks, each suited for specific situations:
- Flatbed Tow Trucks: These are considered the safest as they transport the entire vehicle on a flat platform, ideal for most cars, especially for long distances and high-value vehicles.
- Wheel-Lift Tow Trucks: These trucks use a yoke to lift the front or rear wheels of the car, towing it on its remaining wheels. They are common for standard towing needs and maneuvering in tight spaces.
- Boom Tow Trucks: Equipped with a boom and winch, these are used for recovering vehicles from ditches, embankments, or other challenging locations.
- Hook and Chain Tow Trucks: While less common now for passenger cars due to potential damage, these trucks use chains and hooks to tow vehicles. They are more often used for junk cars or in salvage situations.
3. Should You Drive Your Car to a Repair Shop?
Driving a malfunctioning car to a repair shop is generally not recommended and can be risky. It can lead to:
- Further Damage: Driving a vehicle with existing problems can worsen the issue, leading to more extensive and expensive repairs. For example, driving with transmission problems can cause complete transmission failure.
- Safety Hazards: Malfunctions can compromise your control over the vehicle, posing risks to yourself, passengers, and other drivers.
- Increased Repair Costs: What might have been a minor issue can escalate into a major repair due to continued driving in a damaged state.
Towing is always the safer and often more cost-effective option in the long run.
4. Can You Tow a Car Yourself?
While it’s technically possible to tow a car with another car using equipment like tow dollies, tow bars, or trailers, it’s generally not recommended unless you have experience and the right equipment. Improper towing can cause:
- Transmission Damage: Incorrect towing methods can damage the towed vehicle’s transmission.
- Mechanical Issues: Improper towing can strain other mechanical components.
- Safety Risks: Towing without proper equipment and experience can be dangerous and lead to accidents.
Hiring professional towing services ensures your vehicle is transported safely and correctly, preventing further damage.
Final Thoughts
Towing services are invaluable for safely transporting your vehicle to a professional auto repair shop when unexpected issues arise. They prevent further damage that could occur from driving a malfunctioning car and ensure your vehicle gets the expert attention it needs.
For convenient and expert car care, consider AutoNation Mobile Service. We offer top-rated mobile auto maintenance and repair services, bringing the mechanic to your location. With 24/7 availability and easy online booking, we make car repair hassle-free.
Contact AutoNation Mobile Service today to have a certified mechanic diagnose and fix your car troubles right at your home.
