When it's Best to Call for Towing Rather than Driving Your Car to a Repair Shop

12 June 2015
 Categories: Automotive, Blog


If you can start your car and get it on the road, you might assume that it's fine to drive to a nearby repair shop no matter the damages or repairs that are needed. There are actually instances when it's better to call for towing services and to have your car towed to the shop rather than risk driving it, even if the shop is not that far from your home. Note a few times when it's best to call for towing services in the area rather than driving your car at all.

1. If the shocks seem to grind or there is no cushion to them

When your car hits a bump of any sort, the shocks should absorb that impact and you should feel cushioned inside the cab of the car. Shocks aren't there just for your comfort but they also protect the car itself. If your shocks seem to grind with every bump or you know that there is no cushion to them, this can cause your car's axles, tire rims, and other major parts to absorb each bump on the road.

The underbody of your car might also smack the road rather than bouncing up and down as it should, and this can cause damage to any number of parts under the car's body. Rather than risk this type of damage, have your car towed if you know that the shocks are broken or simply not working as they should.

2. When you hear a clunking or thumping noise

A clunking or thumping noise under your car's hood can be any number of problems, but is often caused by a part that has broken or come loose and which is now thumping against something else. Driving your car this way can mean more damage to the part itself, and whatever other part it is bumping against. No matter the cause, when you hear something obviously clunking or thumping under the hood, have your car towed.

3. Obvious fluid leaks

If your car has a puddle of any sort under it after driving, unless it's condensation from the air conditioner, you don't want to drive it. A small drip of oil or another fluid may not be very catastrophic, but if you notice puddles, drips along any part under the hood or other signs of major fluid leaks, don't drive your car, as the fluid could leak out on the road. This can mean your steering, brakes, or other major component then fails, putting you in danger.


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