Roadside assistance decisions

Roadside assistance may solve a limited problem, but it is not a substitute for a mechanical diagnosis. The right choice depends on whether the vehicle can be approached safely, whether suitable equipment is available and whether the underlying fault permits the vehicle to move normally afterward. Explain what happened rather than naming a repair you are not sure the car needs. A flat tire without a usable spare, a battery issue accompanied by other faults, or a wheel that cannot turn can change a roadside request into a towing job. Dispatch can review the situation before confirming a service.

Flat tire with no spare

For a flat tire without a usable spare, describe tire position, wheel condition and available spare equipment. Roadside tire work may not be possible without the correct spare.

Flat tire with a temporary spare

For a temporary spare tire, describe spare condition and the vehicle manual’s limitations. A temporary spare has vehicle-specific operating limits.

Two flat tires at once

For more than one damaged tire, describe which tires are affected and whether any wheel is bent. One spare does not resolve multiple damaged tires.

Tire sidewall damage

For visible tire sidewall damage, describe location of damage and whether air is being lost. Do not assume a puncture service can repair sidewall damage.

Wheel damage after a pothole

For a wheel damaged by an impact, describe which wheel, visible deformation and steering symptoms. Wheel and suspension damage may require towing.

Jump-start request versus towing

For a car that will not start, describe dashboard behavior, recent battery issues and other symptoms. A jump start cannot establish the cause of every no-start problem.

Repeated dead battery

For a recurring battery problem, describe how often it happens and whether the vehicle restarted previously. Repeated failures deserve diagnosis rather than repeated roadside attempts.

Battery trouble in a hybrid

For a hybrid no-start condition, describe year, model and the manufacturer’s roadside instructions. Hybrid systems have vehicle-specific procedures.

Electric vehicle roadside assistance

For an electric vehicle that cannot move, describe charge level, warning messages and transport instructions. Do not confuse an EV traction battery with its low-voltage system.

Locked keys inside a vehicle

For a vehicle-access request, describe vehicle model, proof of authorization and anyone inside. A child, pet or vulnerable person at risk needs emergency help.

Broken key or damaged lock

For a damaged vehicle access system, describe key condition, lock damage and authorized contact. An access request may need a specialist rather than a standard unlock.

Vehicle ran out of fuel

For a vehicle stopped after running out of fuel, describe fuel type, location and whether the engine was restarted. Confirm fuel compatibility rather than guessing.

Wrong fuel in a vehicle

For a suspected incorrect-fuel event, describe fuel added, whether the engine ran and vehicle details. Avoid restarting until a qualified service provider advises a plan.

Roadside help in a parking lot

For a parking-lot roadside request, describe lot entrance, stall location and any gate instructions. The truck needs a practical route to the vehicle.

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.