5 Early Signs It’s Time to Call a Tow Truck

5 Signs It’s Time to Call a Tow Truck (And Why Waiting Can Cost You More)

We’ve all been there—your car starts acting funny, but you’re not sure if it’s serious enough to call a tow truck. You might even try to push through, hoping the issue will resolve itself, or worse, attempt to limp your vehicle to the nearest service center. But here’s the hard truth: waiting too long to call a professional towing service can end up costing you more than just a repair bill. It could lead to further damage to your vehicle or put you in a dangerous situation.

At Shifting Gears Towing and Transport, we know that sometimes it's hard to tell when you really need help. To make things easier, we’ve put together a guide on 5 signs that it’s time to stop driving and call a tow truck right away.

1. Strange Noises: Your Car is Telling You Something’s Wrong

If your car starts making unusual noises—like grinding, knocking, or squealing—it’s a clear sign that something isn’t right. Ignoring these sounds could lead to major mechanical failures down the road.

What You Should Know:

• A grinding noise could mean issues with your brakes, which could be dangerous if left unchecked.

• Knocking sounds from the engine could indicate problems with the engine bearings, and continuing to drive could cause permanent damage.

• Squealing could point to a worn belt, which, if it snaps, could lead to engine overheating or a complete breakdown.

When you start hearing these sounds, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Call a tow truck, like Shifting Gears, and have your car taken to a professional mechanic before things get worse.

2. Warning Lights: Don’t Ignore the Dashboard

Modern vehicles are equipped with a variety of sensors designed to alert you when something goes wrong. From the check engine light to the oil pressure or battery light, these dashboard indicators are there for a reason. Ignoring them could mean disaster.

What You Should Know:

• The check engine light could indicate anything from a loose gas cap to a serious engine problem.

• The oil pressure light means your car is low on oil, and driving without enough oil can severely damage your engine.

• The battery light signals an issue with your charging system, and you could end up with a dead battery in the middle of nowhere.

When these warning lights come on, don’t take the risk. A professional towing service can get your car safely to a mechanic for a full diagnosis.

3. Smoke or Steam: Stop Driving Immediately

Seeing smoke or steam coming from your car is never a good sign. Whether it’s under the hood or from the exhaust pipe, smoke could mean a serious mechanical problem or even a potential fire hazard.

What You Should Know:

• White smoke coming from the engine usually indicates overheating or coolant issues.

• Black smoke can be a sign of burning oil, a bad gasket, or engine trouble.

• Blue smoke may point to a burning oil leak, which can cause significant engine damage if left unresolved.

In any of these cases, it’s best to pull over and call Shifting Gears for towing. Driving further can not only make the issue worse, but it could also put you in a dangerous situation if your engine overheats or catches fire.

4. Handling Problems: Steering or Brakes Acting Up

Your vehicle’s handling is crucial to your safety on the road. If you notice any sudden or unusual changes in how your car steers, brakes, or accelerates, it’s time to stop driving and seek professional help.

What You Should Know:

• Steering issues could indicate a problem with your power steering, alignment, or suspension.

• Braking problems might mean worn brake pads, low brake fluid, or even a brake line issue—none of which should be ignored.

• Unresponsive acceleration could point to transmission trouble or engine failure, both of which require immediate attention.

When your vehicle’s handling feels off, continuing to drive can put you and other drivers at risk. Shifting Gears can safely transport your vehicle to a mechanic for inspection.

5. Fluid Leaks: A Small Leak Can Turn Into a Big Problem

Finding a pool of liquid under your car isn’t something you should ignore. Leaks can be a sign of a failing system, and driving without the proper fluids can quickly lead to costly repairs or a complete breakdown.

What You Should Know:

• Coolant leaks can cause your engine to overheat.

• Oil leaks can lead to engine damage if the oil level gets too low.

• Brake fluid leaks can make it difficult—or impossible—to stop your car, creating a serious safety hazard.

If you notice a leak, especially after your car has been parked, it’s safer to call for a tow than risk further damage. Shifting Gears can transport your vehicle to a shop where they can find the source of the leak and fix it before it becomes a bigger issue.

Why Waiting Can Cost You More

Driving your car when it’s showing signs of trouble can lead to further damage, making what could have been a small repair into a costly fix. Worse, it could leave you stranded in a dangerous location or cause a breakdown that puts you and other drivers at risk. By calling a tow truck at the first sign of trouble, you can save yourself from:

• Expensive engine repairs

• Transmission damage

• Brake failures

• Potential accidents

How Shifting Gears Can Help

At Shifting Gears Towing and Transport, we specialize in providing fast, reliable towing services for any situation. Whether your car has broken down in Ballarat or you’re experiencing issues while traveling across the state, we’re here to help. Our 24/7 towing service ensures you’re never left stranded, and our trained professionals will handle your vehicle with the care it deserves.

Here’s what you can expect from us:

• Fast response times: We know that time is of the essence when your car breaks down.

• Professional service: Our experienced team is ready to handle any vehicle, from cars and trucks to motorcycles and heavy machinery.

• Affordable rates: We offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees, so you’ll always know what to expect.

• A friendly, family-owned touch: We’re proud to serve the Ballarat and surrounding areas with a personal, community-focused approach.

Your vehicle is one of your most important assets, and taking care of it means knowing when to call for help. If you experience any of the signs mentioned above, don’t wait—get in touch with Shifting Gears Towing and Transport. We’ll be there to assist you, ensuring your vehicle is handled safely and efficiently, so you can avoid costly repairs and get back on the road in no time.