We all need to call a tow truck service from time to time. It's not just a specific group of people or something that you can avoid. Every car will have times when its mechanical troubles mean it can't make it to the shop. Brake problems will make it almost impossible to use, in particular: according to AAA, over 235,000 vehicles are towed every year because of brake system failures. Here's how to know if you need to pull off and let the auto club take you to the shop.

Your Brakes Are Taking a Lot of Pressure

Brakes should not take heavy pedal pressure to actuate. If you're driving and your brakes need a heavier push than usual on the pedals to operate, you're very likely on the verge of a brake failure. If so, you should pull off while you still have braking power, stop on flat ground, and call a tow truck service. Remember that the parking mode on your transmission is just actuating a pin that goes into the drive shaft, called the parking pawl. The parking pawl isn't intended to substitute for brakes, especially on an incline.

Your Engine Heat Is Spiking Very High

Every car has an engine thermometer for a very good reason. High engine heat can destroy your car quickly, and the engine can't run for very long with a high heat spike without being damaged. If your car is running without coolant, the engine will seize and die very quickly, and you can be stuck on the side of the road without a means of transportation. You need to get off the road if you see your engine heat climbing or white smoke in your exhaust. On a warm day, a car's exhaust should be almost completely invisible.

You Get a Flat Tire

It's sad but true: many people don't know how to change a tire, and you might be one of them. A tow truck service can help you get that spare on your car, especially if you're on the side of a busy highway and have never changed a tire before. Don't take chances, call the experts. If you're without a spare tire, they can bring you into a shop.

If you're calling a tow from the side of a freeway, you are probably under a lot of stress and very upset. Towing specialists are here to make sure that you're back on the road before too long. Call us at Capital District Towing when you need assistance!