5 Signs You Need a Tow Truck, Not Roadside Assistance

1. Your Engine Is Overheating or Smoking

Steam or smoke coming from under your hood is a serious warning sign. This typically indicates one of these problems:

• Coolant leak or blown radiator hose
• Failed water pump
• Malfunctioning thermostat
• Cracked head gasket

Why you need a tow: Driving an overheating engine—even a short distance—can cause catastrophic damage. Warped cylinder heads, seized pistons, and blown head gaskets are all expensive repairs that result from ignoring overheating.

If your temperature gauge is in the red zone or you see white steam billowing from the hood, pull over immediately. Turn off your engine and call for emergency towing.

2. Your Brakes Have Failed or Feel Unsafe

Brake problems are non-negotiable. If you notice any of these symptoms, do not attempt to drive your vehicle:

• Brake pedal goes to the floor
• Grinding or metal-on-metal sounds when braking
• Car pulls sharply to one side when stopping
• Brake warning light is illuminated
• Soft or spongy pedal feel

Why you need a tow: Faulty brakes put you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road in danger. Unlike a dead battery or flat tire, brake failure cannot be fixed roadside.

Even if you think you can “make it” to a nearby shop, the risk isn’t worth it. Call for a tow and have your vehicle transported safely to a trusted mechanic.

3. Your Transmission Won’t Shift or Has Failed

Transmission problems often strike without warning. Signs that your transmission needs immediate attention include:

• Vehicle won’t go into gear
• Slipping between gears while driving
• Grinding or shaking during gear changes
• Burning smell from under the car
• Transmission fluid leaking (reddish fluid)

Why you need a tow: A failing transmission can leave you stranded mid-intersection or cause sudden loss of power on the highway. Continuing to drive with transmission issues will only cause more expensive damage.

If your car refuses to move or shifts erratically, it’s time to call for flatbed towing. This is especially important for all-wheel drive vehicles, which can suffer drivetrain damage if towed improperly.

4. Your Check Engine Light Is Flashing

There’s a big difference between a steady check engine light and a flashing one.

• Steady light: Something needs attention soon, but driving short distances is usually okay
• Flashing light: Indicates a serious issue—often an engine misfire that can damage your catalytic converter

Why you need a tow: A flashing check engine light means your engine is actively damaging itself or other expensive components. Every kilometer you drive could be adding hundreds of dollars to your repair bill.

Pull over safely, turn off your engine, and arrange for towing. Most roadside assistance services can’t diagnose or repair the underlying issue—you need a mechanic with proper diagnostic equipment.

5. You’ve Been in an Accident (Even a Minor One)

After any collision, your vehicle should be inspected before you drive it again. Even “minor” fender benders can cause hidden damage:

• Bent frame or structural damage
• Misaligned wheels or suspension
• Damaged radiator or cooling system
• Compromised airbag sensors
• Brake line damage

Why you need a tow: Damage that isn’t visible can make your car unsafe to drive. A slow coolant leak might cause overheating 10 minutes into your drive. A bent control arm could cause you to lose steering.

Our accident towing service includes debris cleanup and direct insurance billing—so you can focus on your safety, not paperwork.

Towing vs. Roadside Assistance: Quick Reference

Still not sure which service you need? Here’s a simple breakdown:

What to Do While Waiting for a Tow Truck

Once you’ve determined you need a tow, follow these steps to stay safe:

1. Pull over safely: Move as far off the road as possible. Aim for a straight, flat area with good visibility.
2. Turn on hazard lights: Make yourself visible to other drivers, especially at night or in bad weather.
3. Stay in your vehicle: If you’re on a busy road or highway, it’s safer inside your car than standing outside.
4. Call for help: Contact a towing company and provide your exact location, vehicle details, and the nature of your problem.
5. Set up warning signals: If you have reflective triangles or flares, place them behind your vehicle.

In Montreal, our 24/7 dispatch sends real-time tracking links so you know exactly when help will arrive.