What should I do when my vehicle breaks down?
Ok, the worst has happened. Well, not the worst! A simple breakdown isn’t nearly as bad as a collision, but it can absolutely ruin your day. Knowing the difference between a minor issue and a major issue is important, and you want to have a good idea of how your vehicle feels when it’s in prime condition.
When you notice your vehicle starting to have problems, pull over before they worsen. Especially during the summer months when our temperatures regularly exceed 100 to 110 degrees. Pay attention to your vehicle’s temperature gauge and pull over if it’s spiking. Look for smoke coming out of the hood or exhaust and any strange sounds or feelings your vehicle produces.
If your vehicle does break down, pull over immediately if possible. If it is not, remove yourself from the vehicle and get to safety. When it is safe, return to the vehicle and push it to the side of the road, call your trusted auto repair center, and they will assist you.
How can I prepare my vehicle for a breakdown?
You can do a few things to prepare your vehicle for a breakdown. Here are some of our suggestions!
- Always have a spare tire
- Always have a jack & wrench to install your spare tire
- Make sure your vehicle’s fluids are topped off and healthy
- Pay attention to strange sounds and have them investigated
- Pay attention to strange smells and have them investigated
What are some things I should watch out for on the California Central Valley roads?
The California Central Valley has some unique obstacles you should consider during your drives. Our area is home to a huge amount of agricultural fields, being one of the fruits and veggie baskets of the United States!
Those same fields produce a lot of pollen, and our rural roads can be prone to water runoff and potholes. Make sure to look after your vehicle filters, especially your air filter, and be extra careful when navigating the agricultural areas. People tend to drive very fast down the backroads, and some are littered with potholes.
Stay safe on your summer road trips, and spend plenty of time with your family. Breakdowns happen to everyone; at some point, things go wrong. But if you follow some of these tips and make sure you have an auto repair center you trust, things shouldn’t be too bad!
Call Dick’s Automotive in Clovis, CA, when you experience a breakdown, and we will be there for you. We can set you up with a vehicle tow and assist you in the next steps. Don’t hesitate to contact us today, and please schedule an appointment via our website. Also, visit us on our Facebook page and get involved in our community!
