A Guide To What To Do When Your Car Breaks Down

Experiencing a car breakdown can be stressful and inconvenient, especially when it happens unexpectedly. However, knowing how to handle the situation calmly and efficiently can make all the difference. In this blog, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on what to do when your car breaks down, including essential steps to ensure your safety and get your vehicle back on the road as quickly as possible.

1. Stay Calm and Pull Over Safely

Experiencing a car breakdown can be unnerving, but it’s essential to remain calm to handle the situation effectively. Panicking can lead to poor decision-making and increase the risk of accidents. As soon as you notice signs of a breakdown, such as unusual noises, dead battery, dashboard warning lights, or loss of power, take a deep breath and focus on safely pulling over to the side of the road.
Gradually slow down and signal to other drivers that you’re pulling over by activating your turn signal or hazard lights. If you’re on a multi-lane road, try to maneuver your vehicle to the rightmost lane or the shoulder. If possible, aim for a wide shoulder or a parking lot where you can safely park your vehicle away from moving traffic.

2. Turn on Hazard Lights and Exit the Vehicle

Once you’ve safely parked your vehicle, the next step is to make yourself visible to other drivers by turning on your hazard lights. Hazard lights alert other motorists that your vehicle is stationary and may be experiencing difficulties, reducing the risk of collisions.
After activating your hazard lights, exit your vehicle from the side away from traffic. Use caution when opening doors to avoid accidentally stepping into the path of oncoming vehicles. If you have reflective vests or jackets in your emergency kit, consider wearing them to increase your visibility, especially if you’re stranded on a busy road at night.

3. Assess the Situation

After safely exiting your vehicle, take a moment to assess the situation and try to determine the cause of the breakdown. While it may not always be possible to diagnose the problem like a flat tire yourself, a brief visual inspection under the hood may reveal obvious signs of damage or mechanical issues.
Check for any visible signs of leaking fluids, loose hoses or belts, or damaged components. However, refrain from attempting any repairs unless you have the necessary expertise and tools. Attempting DIY repairs without proper knowledge can worsen the problem or cause injury.

4. Call for Assistance

If you’re unable to resolve the issue on your own, it’s time to call for professional assistance. Use your mobile phone to contact roadside assistance or emergency services. Provide the dispatcher with your location, a detailed description of the problem, and any relevant information about your vehicle, such as make, model, and license plate number.
Roadside assistance or towing services providers are equipped to handle a wide range of vehicle issues, from flat tires and dead batteries to more complex mechanical problems. They can dispatch a tow truck or a mobile mechanic to your location, depending on the nature of the issue.

5. Stay Safe While Waiting

While waiting for assistance to arrive, prioritize your safety and the safety of your passengers. Remain inside your vehicle with doors locked and windows up, especially if you’re stranded on a busy road or in an unfamiliar area. This helps protect you from traffic hazards and potential threats.
If it’s safe to do so, set up warning triangles or flares behind your vehicle to alert approaching drivers of your presence. Place the warning devices at a safe distance behind your vehicle, preferably at least 50-100 feet away, and angle them to direct traffic away from your location.

6. Communicate with Other Drivers

If your vehicle is obstructing traffic and you’re unable to move it completely off the road, use hand signals or gestures to communicate with other drivers and request assistance. Signal to drivers to slow down and pass with caution, or signal for help if you need assistance pushing your vehicle to a safer location.
While communicating with other drivers, remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Avoid engaging in confrontations or arguments with other motorists, as this can escalate tensions and compromise your safety.

7. Be Prepared with Emergency Supplies

Preparedness is key when it comes to handling car breakdowns. Keeping an emergency kit in your vehicle can help you stay safe and comfortable while waiting for assistance. Essential items to include in your emergency kit:

• Water and non-perishable snacks to stay hydrated and nourished.
• A flashlight with extra batteries for visibility in low-light conditions.
• Blankets or warm clothing to stay warm in case of inclement weather.
• Jumper cables to jump-start your vehicle if the battery dies.
• A first aid kit to treat minor injuries or medical emergencies.
• A charged mobile phone and portable charger to stay connected and call for help.

By having these supplies on hand, you can better cope with unexpected breakdowns and ensure your safety until help arrives.

8. Follow Instructions from Assistance Providers

When roadside assistance or emergency services arrive at the scene, it’s essential to follow their instructions and cooperate fully. Roadside assistance professionals are trained to handle vehicle breakdowns safely and efficiently, and they may have specific protocols for addressing different types of issues.
Provide the roadside assistance provider with any relevant information about your vehicle and the problem you’re experiencing. Be prepared to answer questions about your location, the condition of your vehicle, and any symptoms or warning signs you’ve observed. By providing clear and accurate information, you can help expedite the resolution of the issue and get back on the road sooner.
If your vehicle needs to be towed to a repair facility, make arrangements for transportation and ensure that you have a plan for retrieving your vehicle once it’s repaired. Ask the tow truck driver for an estimated time of arrival at the repair shop and inquire about any fees or charges associated with the tow.

9. Take Steps to Prevent Future Breakdowns

After the immediate crisis is resolved and your vehicle is back on the road, it’s essential to take proactive measures to prevent future breakdowns. Regular vehicle maintenance and inspections can help identify and address potential issues before they escalate into major problems.
Schedule routine maintenance appointments with a qualified mechanic to check your vehicle’s fluid levels, brakes, tires, battery, and other essential components. Address any warning signs or unusual symptoms promptly to avoid unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.
Additionally, consider investing in a roadside assistance membership or service plan for added peace of mind. Roadside assistance plans provide access to 24/7 emergency services, including towing service, jump-starts, lockout assistance, and fuel delivery, ensuring that you’re never stranded on the road without help.

Conclusion

Experiencing a car breakdown can be daunting, but knowing what to do can help minimize stress and ensure your safety. By following these essential steps, staying calm, and prioritizing safety, you can navigate the situation effectively and get back on the road with minimal disruption. Remember to prioritize safety at all times and seek professional assistance when needed.
Facing a car breakdown? Stay safe and get back on the road quickly with ASAP Automobile Mechanic. Visit our comprehensive guide for essential tips or reach out to us for immediate assistance.
Our ASE Certified technicians can assist with any roadside issue through our mobile mechanic service. Call + 1 (650)-776-5727 to get back on track.

FAQ’s