Avoid These Common Causes of Roadside Breakdowns

Roadside assistance helps busy travelers get back on the road. Here are a few of the most common reasons motorists reach out for a roadside rescue.

Keys

Although getting locked out of a car is frustrating, lock outs are a common call for roadside assistance. The first thing to do is to stay calm go over a few things before reaching for the phone. Double-check all the doors and the trunk or tailgate to see if one might be open. Is there a spare key and can someone bring it over?

If a call for roadside assistance is needed, is it to a motor club or a service that comes with an auto insurance policy? A local towing service, including the professionals at vehicle lock outs Tucker GA may provide the fastest service.

Tires

More than half the roadside breakdowns nationwide are due to tire issues. However, less than one in five calls for roadside tire breakdowns are due to sudden flats while the remainder are from slow leaks.

Tires underinflated by just 10% will decrease tread life by 9 – 16%, Goodyear says. Properly inflated tires also contribute to better vehicle fuel economy, quicker stopping and improved steering control.

Batteries

Battery failure is another common reason calls are made for roadside assistance. Batteries should be inspected whenever the vehicle is in for service and tested at least once a year after three years of service.

Mechanicals

Today’s vehicles are more reliable and experience fewer mechanical breakdowns than those made just twenty years ago. However, serious mechanical breakdowns usually require a call for towing and the prospect of an expensive repair.

Most mechanical problems can be avoided with regular maintenance according to manufacturer recommendations. By following a maintenance schedule and staying alert for signs of trouble such an unusual noise, a vibration or hesitation, many mechanical failures can be avoided.