Breakdown symptoms and tow decisions
A symptom is useful information, not a remote diagnosis. A noise, warning light or loss of power can have more than one cause. Tell dispatch what the vehicle did immediately before it stopped, which warnings are displayed and whether steering, braking or wheel movement has changed. Avoid repeated attempts to drive a vehicle with a serious new fault. A mechanic determines the repair after inspection; a towing plan gets the vehicle to a suitable destination. If smoke, fire, a fuel leak or another immediate threat is present, move to safety and contact emergency services.
Vehicle will not start
For a no-start symptom, describe dashboard behavior, key response and recent changes. One symptom does not establish a battery diagnosis.
Engine stopped while driving
For an engine that shut off in motion, describe warning lights and whether the vehicle is now safely stopped. Do not resume travel without understanding a serious new fault.
Engine overheating before a tow
For an overheating vehicle, describe temperature warning, steam and current location. Keep clear of hot components and escaping steam.
Brake problem before towing
For a braking concern, describe pedal behavior, warnings and where the vehicle is parked. Do not drive a vehicle with unreliable braking.
Steering problem before towing
For a steering fault, describe symptoms and whether wheels can turn. Loss of control requires a cautious transport plan.
Smoke from a vehicle
For visible smoke, describe smoke location and whether there is heat or fire. Treat possible fire as an emergency.
Fluid leak under a vehicle
For an unexplained fluid leak, describe location, visible amount and accompanying symptoms. Do not assume the fluid is harmless from color alone.
Grinding noise from a wheel
For a wheel-area grinding sound, describe which wheel and whether movement is affected. A wheel or brake issue may change loading requirements.
Vehicle shaking after an impact
For new vibration after an impact, describe impact location and visible wheel damage. Avoid highway driving to test the vibration.
Check-engine light with poor running
For an engine warning with severe symptoms, describe warning behavior and engine response. A warning light alone is not a complete diagnosis.
Oil-pressure warning before transport
For an oil-pressure warning, describe warning message and whether the engine was stopped. Do not continue running the engine to see whether the warning clears.
Vehicle loses electrical power
For a loss of electrical functions, describe which systems failed and battery condition. Power loss can affect parking brake and tow-mode access.
Transmission will not engage
For a vehicle that will not move in gear, describe shifter response and warning messages. Do not force repeated gear engagement.
Vehicle dragging a damaged component
For a loose or dragging component, describe component location and ability to roll. Keep people clear of damaged parts.
Confirm the service and handoff
Before a vehicle or load moves, discuss the equipment, actual pickup access, destination and receiving contact. Ask what the quote covers and which details remain unresolved. A form or text is a request; wait for dispatch to confirm the arrangement.
Read about the related service, review pricing factors, or send your request. For time-sensitive coordination, call dispatch. Contact emergency services first if there is immediate danger or injury.