If your car battery dies, your tire goes flat, or you run out of gas, having roadside assistance gives you peace of mind. These services are often cheaper than out-of-pocket, and they include perks like fuel delivery.
You can sign up for a standalone emergency roadside plan or get coverage through your auto insurance provider or credit card. SoFi can help you compare the best policies with roadside assistance. Click Emergency Roadside to learn more.
A dead battery can often be breathed life into with a little help from someone else’s vehicle. This type of roadside assistance is available from several sources, including your auto insurance company and your cell phone plan. You might also be able to find it through independent roadside services such as Mach1. If you have a jumper cable, you can usually get your car started with the help of another driver.
Start by finding a vehicle that has a working battery. The booster vehicle’s driver should position their vehicle close enough to yours so that the cables can reach each other. Try to park them nose-to-nose, but if that’s not possible or safe, parking side-by-side will work. Make sure both vehicles are turned off and that their hoods are open. Once the cables are connected, the engine of the working vehicle should run for a couple of minutes before you try to start your own car.
After your car starts, it’s important to disconnect the cables in reverse order. That way, you don’t spark a fire and create toxic hydrogen gas, which could explode. Once you’re done, don’t forget to thank the driver who helped you.
If you don’t have jumper cables, you can still use a power bank to give your car a boost. These portable devices have lithium-ion batteries with strong amps ratings and are designed to protect your vehicle’s electronic components from high amounts of cranking current. They’re a safer, more convenient option than trying to find a stranger on the side of the road with a set of jumper cables.
To use one, attach the positive (red) clamp to the dead battery’s positive terminal post (+ or red). Then, connect the negative (black) clip on the other end of the cable to an unpainted metal surface on the engine block of the working car. When you’re finished, remove the black clip from the working car’s engine and the red clip from the dead battery. Then, start up your car and drive it for a few minutes to help the battery charge.
Tire Changes
If you find yourself with a flat tire, it is important to know what to do. Having the ability to change your own tire saves time, money and is an invaluable skill to have as a driver. Whether you’re driving on the road or in your driveway, being able to fix a flat tire will help ensure that you don’t get stranded and are able to make it to a repair shop.
While most cars come equipped with a spare, it’s still a good idea to keep jack and lug wrench in your vehicle for emergencies. It is also important to regularly check the tire pressure to ensure that it is correct and not too low or high, as this can affect traction and fuel efficiency. In addition, it’s a good idea to replace your tires when they are old (check the information provided on your tire’s sidewall for the recommended lifespan).
Even with the best care, flat tires can happen. The first step is to assess the situation, pulling over safely and away from traffic. This will reduce accident risks and allow you to more easily inspect the tire. Once you’ve pulled over, turn on your hazard lights to signal your location and to warn other drivers to steer clear.
It is also a good idea to have emergency flares or reflective triangles in your car in case of an accident or breakdown. The next step is to determine whether or not it is safe for you to try and change the tire yourself. This will depend on traffic, weather and your comfort level. If you are unsure or feel uncomfortable, it may be best to call for assistance.
Roadside assistance companies can provide a range of services for tires, including pumping air, repairing punctures and changing the tire. They can also offer a wide selection of tires, including run-flat options to increase safety on the road. It is also a good idea to invest in a roadside assistance plan that includes 24/7 roadside assistance, so that you can avoid paying for a repair service out of pocket and can benefit from faster roadside services.
Fuel Delivery
Running out of gas is one of the most common roadside emergencies, and can be an especially challenging situation for drivers to find themselves in. Fortunately, emergency fuel delivery services provide a convenient solution to this problem by providing on-demand refueling. Typically offered by roadside assistance companies, automotive clubs, or independent service providers, these services offer the convenience of on-the-spot refueling without the need to drive to a nearby gas station.
In addition to offering convenience, roadside fuel delivery services can help drivers save time and money by eliminating the need for them to stop at a gas station. This is particularly useful for drivers in unfamiliar or remote locations, during adverse weather conditions, or during off-hours when finding a gas station may be difficult or even unsafe.
When requesting fuel delivery, make sure to select a service provider that offers a user-friendly app or has a 24/7 live phone line to answer questions and handle requests. Often, these apps can pinpoint your location to speed up the process of bringing fuel. While waiting for a service provider to arrive, turn on your vehicle’s hazard lights and stay inside the vehicle with the doors locked for safety. Be sure to keep your mobile phone charged and within reach so you can communicate with the service provider as needed.
Once your vehicle has been refuelled, be sure to thank the service provider for their help. This simple act can go a long way in demonstrating appreciation for the effort and support they provide, and it can encourage them to continue providing exceptional customer service to their customers. You can also provide feedback to help them improve their services and better meet the needs of future motorists.
Roadside fuel delivery services are an excellent safety net for motorists to have in place in the event of a breakdown. However, taking proactive measures to avoid fuel-related emergencies can help ensure that you never find yourself stranded on the side of the road in the first place. Using fuel consumption calculators and onboard trip computers to estimate fuel consumption, and planning your driving and refueling stops accordingly, can help minimize the risk of running out of gas. In addition, it’s a good idea to carry a portable fuel container as a backup for emergencies.
Lockout Service
When an emergency roadside driver is locked out of their car, a locksmith can be called to help them get back in. This is often more cost-effective than trying to break a window or calling an expensive lock replacement company. A professional locksmith can also make sure the rest of the key is still in the lock system, preventing future lockouts and reducing the need for costly security upgrades.
A locked car can be a frustrating experience for anyone, especially if they were planning on driving that day. A good way to avoid this is by adding roadside assistance coverage to your auto policy. If you accidentally lock your keys in your car, the plan will pay for a locksmith to come and open it for you.
Many new and certified pre-owned vehicles offer free roadside assistance as part of their warranty program. This can be a great way to reduce the hassle of a vehicle breakdown, but remember that this coverage may only cover the labor costs and not the parts required to fix your car. To learn more about what this coverage covers, read your specific insurance contract or contact a representative to speak with an agent.