7 Signs Your Car Needs a Tow (Don't Risk Driving!)

It can be tempting to "just make it home" when your car starts acting up. But some problems can turn a minor repair into a major expense if you keep driving. Here are seven signs you should stop and call for a tow.

1. Smoke from Under the Hood

What it means: Usually overheating, but could be electrical fire or fluid leak onto hot components.

Why you shouldn't drive: Overheating can warp the cylinder head, crack the engine block, or cause complete engine failure. These repairs cost thousands.

What to do: Pull over immediately, turn off the engine, and call for help.

2. Unusual or Grinding Sounds

Warning sounds include:

• Metal-on-metal grinding (brake failure or transmission)
• Knocking from the engine (internal damage)
• Squealing that doesn't stop (belt or bearing failure)
• Loud clunking when driving (suspension or drivetrain)

Why you shouldn't drive: These sounds indicate metal parts damaging each other. Every mile makes it worse.

3. Burning Smell

Common causes:

• Burning oil (leak onto exhaust)
• Clutch burning (manual transmission)
• Electrical burning (wire damage)
• Brake burning (stuck caliper or pad)

Why you shouldn't drive: Fire risk, brake failure risk, or engine damage.

4. Check Engine Light Flashing

A solid check engine light can often wait for service. A flashing check engine light means:

• Severe engine misfire
• Catalytic converter damage occurring
• Stop driving immediately

Why you shouldn't drive: You're actively destroying expensive components with every mile.

5. Loss of Power Steering

If your steering suddenly becomes very difficult:

• Power steering pump failure
• Broken serpentine belt
• Hydraulic fluid leak

Why you shouldn't drive: You may not be able to steer safely, especially at higher speeds or in an emergency.

6. Brake Problems

Call for a tow if you experience:

• Brake pedal goes to the floor
• Grinding every time you brake
• Vehicle pulls hard when braking
• Brake warning light is on

Why you shouldn't drive: Your ability to stop safely is compromised. This is a safety emergency.

7. Fluid Leaking Rapidly

Slow drips can usually wait, but if you see:

• A puddle forming under your car
• Steam or spray while driving
• Fluid trailing behind you

Why you shouldn't drive: You'll run out of the fluid and cause component failure. If it's fuel, there's fire risk.

Quick Fluid Identification

• Red/Pink: Transmission fluid or power steering
• Green/Orange: Coolant (antifreeze)
• Brown/Black: Oil or old brake fluid
• Clear: Power steering, water (possibly AC condensation)
• Yellow/Brown with chemical smell: Brake fluid

The "Can I Make It?" Calculation

Before deciding to drive:

• How far is your destination?
• What's the speed limit? (Higher speeds = more stress)
• Is it safe to pull over if things get worse?
• What's the worst-case repair cost if you keep going?

Often, a $100-150 tow is much cheaper than a $2,000-5,000 repair bill.

We'll Get You There Safely

Dolooma Towing offers 24/7 towing service throughout the Triangle. We'll transport your vehicle safely to your mechanic, dealership, or wherever you need it.

Unsure if you should drive? Call 1-877-47-PULSE – we're happy to help you decide, and if you need a tow, we'll be there fast.