Safe driving involves being diligent about completing car maintenance tasks, whether it’s changing your oil, rotating your tires, or replacing your brake pads. But it’s equally as important to know how to identify signs of trouble while you are driving so you can pull over safely and call for an emergency tow service. If you notice any of the below warning signs, it’s in your best interest to pull over immediately.

When Do You Need to Pull Your Car Over?

1. Rising Steam 

Steam rising from underneath the hood of your car could indicate that your vehicle is overheating and boiling your coolant, which means a breakdown is likely imminent. Smoke coming from your hood is also a bad sign because there is a chance that it could be the result of an engine fire. In both cases, pull over as soon as you are able, step away from your vehicle, and call for an emergency tow service.

2. Loud Noises

Most cars make odd noises from time to time, but if you notice a sound that’s especially loud and unfamiliar to you, it could be a sign of trouble. For example, a dragging noise from underneath your car could mean that your muffler and exhaust system are scraping against the road, or that you ran over a piece of large debris that won’t detach from your vehicle. If you begin to hear grinding sounds every time you hit the brakes, on the other hand, you may have little breaking power left and need to replace the pads.

3. Unusual Odor

It’s never a good idea to ignore an unusual odor coming from your car. Even if it’s only road debris caught in your catalytic converter, it will need to be removed to prevent your vehicle from overheating. And often, an odd smell can be the sign of a much more serious problem, such as a burning insulation wire, a loose belt, or mold in the A/C system. Any strange and pungent odor that does not go away within a matter of minutes is a sign you need to pull your car over and call an emergency tow service.

When you’re in need of emergency towing service, you can count on Steve’s Automotive & Towing Specialists in Lake Havasu City, AZ. With more than 35 years of emergency service experience, they’re ready to provide help whenever you need it most. In addition to 24-hour towing and roadside assistance, they also provide automotive repairs and are the only AAA-approved repair shop in the area. Visit their website to learn more and call (928) 855-1099 to speak with a technician today.