When your car breaks down or starts acting up, it can be difficult to decide whether you should try to drive it to a repair shop or call for a tow. Many drivers in Calgary face this dilemma, especially when the issue seems minor at first.

However, misjudging the situation can lead to more extensive and costly damage, or worse, put you at risk on the road.

Understanding the difference between a minor issue that allows you to drive and a serious problem that requires towing is essential for protecting both your vehicle and your safety.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the key signs that indicate when it’s safe to drive and when you need to call a towing company.

Signs Your Car Needs To Be Towed

If your car is showing any of the following signs, it’s best to pull over and contact a professional towing company. Driving with these issues can lead to further mechanical damage, increased repair costs, and safety risks.

a) Engine Trouble

The engine is the heart of your vehicle. When it starts malfunctioning, driving further can cause severe damage:

• If your engine refuses to start or stalls while driving, it’s a clear sign of a serious issue.
  
• Overheating is another major red flag. If you notice steam or smoke coming from under the hood, pull over immediately and call for a tow. Overheating can lead to a blown head gasket, warped cylinder head, and other costly repairs.
  
• A loud knocking or grinding noise from the engine could indicate internal damage.
  

b) Transmission Issues

Your transmission is responsible for shifting gears and ensuring smooth vehicle movement. If you experience any of the following, stop driving and call for a tow:

• Difficulty shifting gears or the vehicle slipping out of gear while driving.
  
• Burning smells, which could indicate that the transmission fluid is overheating.
  
• Grinding or whining noises while accelerating or changing gears.
  

Towing a car with transmission problems improperly can make the situation worse. It’s essential to contact a professional towing service to prevent further damage.

c) Brake Failure

Brakes are critical to vehicle safety. If they stop working properly, driving is not an option:

• A soft or unresponsive brake pedal suggests a brake fluid leak or air in the brake lines.
  
• Grinding or squeaking sounds when you apply the brakes could mean that the brake pads or rotors are worn out.
  
• If your vehicle pulls to one side while braking, it could indicate uneven brake pad wear or a hydraulic issue.
  

Without functioning brakes, it’s not safe to drive — even a short distance — and you should call for a tow.

d) Flat Tire Or Wheel Damage

A flat tire or damaged wheel can make driving difficult and unsafe:

• A single flat tire can sometimes be changed with a spare, but if you experience multiple flats, you’ll need a tow.
  
• Bent rims or damaged wheel hubs can cause steering issues and make driving dangerous.
  
• If you hear a thumping sound or feel strong vibrations while driving, it could indicate wheel alignment or suspension damage.
  

If you don’t have the proper equipment to replace a tire or if the damage is more extensive, contact a towing company for assistance.

e) Leaking Fluids

If you see fluid pooling under your car, it could be a sign of a major issue:

• Oil leaks can damage the engine and lead to overheating.
  
• Coolant leaks can cause the engine to overheat.
  
• Transmission fluid leaks can cause shifting problems and internal damage.
  

Fluid leaks are not something you should ignore — driving with a leak can lead to severe engine or transmission failure.

f) Severe Body Or Frame Damage

If you’ve been in a collision or accident, inspect the vehicle for structural damage:

• A crumpled hood or misaligned frame can cause handling and safety issues.
  
• If the car feels like it’s dragging or leaning to one side, it could indicate suspension or axle damage.
  

According to CARFAX, structural damage can affect the safety of the car or truck, and related mechanical problems could surface prematurely.

Signs Your Car Can Be Driven Safely

Not every issue requires towing. If your vehicle shows only minor problems, it may still be safe to drive to a repair shop, but proceed with caution.

a) Minor Dashboard Warning Lights

Not all warning lights mean you need to stop immediately:

• Low tire pressure, washer fluid, or oil change reminder lights are not critical and can be addressed at a service station.
  
• A check engine light that is steady (not flashing) usually indicates a non-urgent issue, but you should still get it inspected soon.
  

However, if the check engine light starts flashing, pull over and call for a tow.

b) Minor Tire Issues

• If your tire is slightly underinflated but not flat, you can drive to the nearest service station to adjust the pressure.
  
• Slow leaks (as long as the tire isn’t fully deflated) can also be managed temporarily.
  

Driving too far with a low tire can lead to uneven tire wear and handling issues, so address it quickly.

c) Working Brakes And Steering

• If the brakes feel responsive and the steering is normal, you’re likely safe to drive.
  
• Minor squeaking from the brakes (without grinding) could indicate early brake wear but is not necessarily a sign of immediate danger.
  

d) Electrical Issues

• Dim headlights or malfunctioning windows are often caused by a weak battery or alternator issue.
  
• As long as the engine starts and the vehicle drives normally, you can usually make it to a repair shop.
  

When To Drive With Caution And When To Stop Immediately

When It’s Safe To Drive Slowly To A Repair Shop

• Minor dashboard warnings (e.g., tire pressure or washer fluid).
  
• A single low tire or slow leak.
  
• Slight dimming of lights due to battery drain.

When To Pull Over And Call For Help

• Flashing engine light or smoke from the hood.
  
• Grinding or clunking noises while accelerating or braking.
  
• Brake failure or unresponsive steering.

Risks Of Driving When You Should Tow

Further Mechanical Damage

Driving with a failing transmission or engine can cause irreversible damage.

Safety Hazards

Brakes or steering failures can lead to serious accidents.

Voiding Your Insurance

Driving after an accident without a proper inspection could void insurance claims.

About AAA Towing

AAA Towing has been providing reliable towing and roadside assistance in Calgary and the surrounding areas for years. We specialize in light-duty and heavy-duty towing, vehicle recovery, and 24/7 emergency roadside assistance.

Our trained operators and modern fleet ensure that your vehicle is transported safely and securely. When you need professional towing services in Calgary, trust AAA Towing to get you back on the road quickly and safely.

For more information, contact us today.