Roadside Emergencies That Require Towing and Ones That Do Not

No one wants to experience a roadside emergency. But the truth is that these situations can happen even to the most prepared of drivers. Knowing what type of roadside emergencies require professional assistance, like a tow truck, and which ones you can manage yourself is key in keeping your car running smoothly and avoiding costly repairs or replacements.

In this blog post, we will discuss some common roadside emergencies that may arise and how best to handle them depending on their severity. We’ll also provide tips for getting help when it’s needed so you can be back on the road as quickly as possible.

Call 317-247-8484 For 24 Hour Emergency Roadside Assistance in Indianapolis.
Call 317-247-8484 For 24 Hour Emergency Roadside Assistance in Indianapolis.

When You Might Need Towing Service for a Roadside Emergency

The most common roadside emergencies that may require professional assistance are flat tires, engine failure or overheating, and battery issues. Flat tires need to be replaced with a spare tire. Generally, you would have already purchased one before the emergency arises. If you do not have a spare tire in your car, then you will need roadside assistance. They can likely provide a spare tire for you. If they cannot, you will need to be towed to a tire shop of your choice.

Engine failure or overheating can be a serious issue. In such cases, a tow truck is typically needed to get your car safely to a service center. Battery issues are commonly solvable by using jumper cables. However, if this isn’t an option then roadside assistance may be necessary in order to get a battery jump start. If your battery is fully dead, you might need a new one. In this case, you would need to be towed to the nearest auto center.

When You Might Not Need a Tow Truck for Roadside Emergencies

There are some roadside emergencies, however, that do not require a tow truck and can be managed without professional assistance. If you run out of gas or experience a dead battery caused by leaving your headlights on overnight, these issues can be solved with the help of a friend or family member who has jumper cables. You should also check your owners’ manual. You want to make sure that you are using the correct type of fuel for your car and have it refilled at the nearest gas station.

Always Be Prepared for Road Emergencies

Knowing how to handle different types of emergencies can save you time and money, so be sure to familiarize yourself with what type of emergency requires professional assistance and which ones you can manage on your own. No matter what kind of roadside emergency you may encounter, it’s important to be prepared. Make sure you have a roadside emergency kit in your car with items like a spare tire, jumper cables, and a flashlight. You should also keep the contact information for your preferred Indianapolis roadside assistance service handy in case you need to call for help.

Not sure which roadside assistance company in Indy to trust for fast service and affordable rates? Contact Zore’s Towing for 24 hour roadside assistance  and tow truck service in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties. We provide towing, recovery, equipment transport, car lockout service, flat tire service, jump starts, refueling, and more!

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The Do’s and Don’ts of Towing a Car

When towing a car, it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers and take the necessary precautions to avoid them. Continue below to review some of the most vital Do’s and Don’t of car towing, plus where to turn if you require professional tow truck assistance or long distance towing service in Central Indiana.

Call 317-247-8484 if You Need Help Towing a Car in Indianapolis Indiana!
Call 317-247-8484 if You Need a Tow Truck in Indianapolis Indiana!

Car Towing: What You Should and Should Not Do

If you’re towing a car, there are some things you should and shouldn’t do. Here are the most important Do’s and Don’ts to remember when towing a car.

1. DO make sure your appointed tow vehicle is up to the task. If it’s not, you could end up damaging both vehicles.

2. DON’T exceed the towing capacity of either vehicle. You could end up causing serious damage to both cars.

3. DO use a tow strap or chain to connect the two cars together. This will help distribute the weight evenly and reduce the risk of damage to either car.

4. DON’T forget to apply the parking brake on both cars before disconnecting them from each other. This will help keep them in place while you’re disconnecting them.

5. DO ensure that the towing vehicle is firmly attached to the car being towed before you start to drive. This will help to avoid any nasty surprises!

6. DON’T attempt to tow a car without proper towing equipment and instruction. Improper towing could lead to personal injury or damage to both vehicles. 

7. DO check to make sure that the towing vehicle’s brakes, steering, and lights are working properly before towing a vehicle.

8. DON’T forget to double-check the tow bar and straps to make sure they’re secure before you start to drive.

9. DO keep an eye out for road hazards and other drivers to make sure that you’re towing safely.

10. DON’T forget to read the owner’s manual of your tow vehicle to make sure you understand any specific towing instructions.

Practice Safe Towing and Car Care

Following these dos and don’ts will help to ensure that you tow your car safely and securely, and can avoid any potential damages to either vehicle. You may need to consider long distance towing service for extended trips if you do not have much experience with towing a vehicle.

Do you think a professional tow truck operator might be the better option for your towing needs? Contact Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour tow truck and roadside assistance services you can afford. We serve all of Central Indiana, including Lebanon, Greenwood, and Avon areas.

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Can My Car Tow a Full Size Trailer?

Trailer towing safety is a serious issue that all drivers should be aware of. When towing a trailer, it is important to remember that your vehicle is now longer and wider than normal. You need to take these factors into account when driving. Make sure you are aware of the maximum weight your vehicle can tow. And as always, use caution when turning or changing lanes. But before you even think about operating a vehicle with a trailer in tow, first ensure your car can handle the load.

Continue reading to learn how to determine your vehicle’s tow capacity, plus a backup plan if you cannot get the job done safely.

Call 317-247-8484 For Trailer Towing Service in Indianapolis!
Call 317-247-8484 For Trailer Towing Service in Indianapolis!

Calculating Towing Capacity

When asking yourself, “Can my car tow a full size trailer?”, there are several factors you should take into consideration. While some small to mid-sized cars are capable of towing heavier loads than others, the size and weight of the trailer are key components in this equation.

Before getting started, you’ll want to check your vehicle’s manufacturer-specified towing capacity. Compare this rating to the size and weight of the trailer you are towing. This information is typically located in your car manual or online. Make sure to account for any additional factors that might affect its payload. This includes the number of passengers, cargo, engine size or type, and fuel economy.

Safety Tips For Towing a Trailer

Once you’ve determined your car is capable of towing the trailer, there are several additional steps you should take to ensure a safe towing experience. You should always check that all lights, brakes, and hookups are functioning properly. Additionally, you can create a checklist before setting out to help you stay organized and prepared. Some important items you should check off the list include double-checking tire pressure, ensuring all cargo is properly secured and balanced, and making sure you have enough fuel for the journey.

If your car isn’t capable of towing a trailer with the payload you need, or if you’re new to trailer towing, it’s a good idea to consider renting a larger vehicle. Your cargo and passengers are safer during the trip with this option. It can also avoiding additional wear and tear on your own car. Or just hire a professional Indianapolis transport company to tow your trailer for you!

If you take these precautions before setting out on any towing journey, you’ll be better prepared for a successful trip. With the right vehicle and a bit of planning, you can safely tow your trailer and enjoy the ride. 

Looking for a professional towing service near you? Contact Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for a wide range of towing services in Indianapolis and surrounding counties. We offer everything from light-duty and long distance towing to heavy equipment transportation, wrecker service, and more. We transport all throughout Indiana and across state lines.

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Tips For Going on a Fall Break Road Trip

For all of you families out there, Fall break begins in just a matter of days! And although it seems like school just started a couple of months ago, this break is an important time for families to bond over creating new and happy memories. If you plan to travel by car for your Fall break, be sure you are current on road safety and car maintenance to keep yourself and your passengers protected during the trip.

Continue reading to review some Fall break tips for going on a road trip, including what to do if you find yourself stranded on the side of the shoulder with the roadside emergency.

Emergency Roadside Assistance Indianapolis Indiana 317-247-8484
Emergency Roadside Assistance Indianapolis Indiana 317-247-8484

Get Your Car Tuned Up at the Auto Shop

Your car is one of the most expensive investments you’ll make, so it’s important to take care of it and keep it running smoothly. Routine car maintenance can help prevent major problems down the road, and it’s also a good way to catch small issues before they become big ones. Plus, regular maintenance can improve your gas mileage and extend the life of your car. So, take your car in for some routine work before you head out on the open road with your loved ones in tow!

Inspect Your Car Before You Leave

A pre-trip car inspection is a very important step to take before starting any long journey. It is highly recommended that you do a thorough check of your vehicle before setting out on any road trip, no matter how short or long the distance may be. By taking the time to do a pre-trip inspection, you can help ensure that your car is in good condition for the journey and that you are aware of any potential problems that may need to be fixed before you go.

There are a few key things to look for when doing a pre-trip inspection. The most important thing is to check the tires, as they are responsible for keeping your car on the road. You should also check the fluid levels, brakes, and lights to make sure that everything is in working order. It is also a good idea to take a look at the map to see if there are any road closures or construction projects that you should be aware of. By taking the time to do a pre-trip inspection, you can help ensure a safe and smooth journey.

Change your oil. This is probably the most important thing you can do for your car, and it’s something that should be done every 3,000 miles or so. Not changing your oil regularly can cause all sorts of problems, including engine damage.

Rotate your tires. This helps to evenly distribute wear and tear on your tires, and it can also help improve your gas mileage. You should rotate your tires every 5,000 miles or so.

Check your fluids. All the fluids in your car – from the oil to the windshield washer fluid – need to be at the proper levels. Check your owner’s manual to see how often you should be checking and/or changing these fluids.

Inspect your brakes. Your brakes are one of the most important safety features on your car, so it’s important to make sure they’re in good working order. You should have your brakes checked at least once a year.

If you are out on the open road and experience an automotive breakdown or emergency, trust the top professionals for fast help. Contact Zore’s Towing for 24 hour roadside assistance and towing services in Indianapolis and its surrounding locations. We operate 24/7, year-round.

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5 Possible Reasons Why Your Car is Shaking

Does your car have a case of the shakes? Does it vibrate, jolt, or quake when you drive or sit at an idle? There are some very good explanations for this. Continue reading to learn the top 5 most common and likely reasons why your vehicle is shaking, plus the safest way to remedy the problem.

Tow Truck Indianapolis Indiana 317-247-8484
Tow Truck Indianapolis Indiana 317-247-8484

Why Does My Car Shake So Much When I Drive?

This is one of the most common automotive questions asked among car owners who begin to notice changes in the way their vehicles perform. The truth of the matter is, there could be many reasons, in some cases multiple reasons, why your car might be shaking so much when you drive or idle. However, the most common and possible reasons why your car shaking include malfunctions or defects with the car’s wheels, brakes, engine, steering, and suspension.

Wheels

When it comes to a shaky car, the very first place you should look is the wheel system. The tires and all related wheel parts, including the rims, axles, lug nuts, bearings, and balance weights, are usually the reason why cars shake when they drive or sit in Park while the engine is running.

You might just have a loose lug nut or a missing balance weight, or you could have a broken wheel bearing. If you notice that your car shakes more when you drive at higher speeds and the vibrations are coming from your floorboard, you probably just need a wheel balance and alignment. You also might have poor tire tread in the entire replacement.

Brakes

Coming in at a close second for top causes of a shaking car is car brake problems. If you notice that the shaking and vibrating increases as you press on the car brake pedal, it could be that your rotors and brake pads are worn down or warped. Simply replacing the worn or warped brake pads and rotors will fix the problem. If you’re detecting a burning smell when you use the brakes, you could have a jammed brake caliper.

Suspension

A malfunctioning car suspension system is another reason why vehicles will begin to vibrate while driving, breaking, or sitting in idle. suspension system. This is likely the cause if you notice the shaking increases as you accelerate. It could also be a defective CV joint, driveshaft, or bent axle.

Steering

Just like the suspension system, the steering system could be damaged, thus causing shaking and vibrating when you drive. If your car was recently involved in an accident or has undergone major automotive repairs, and now you notice that it’s shaking, it could be a weakened or damaged steering system.

Engine

The most common engine problem associated with is worn spark plugs. If the spark plugs are fine, it could be loose spark plug wires. You might also have a loose motor mount. If your check engine light is on, and your car is shaking and vibrating, it needs immediate attention.

Do Not Drive Your Car if it Shakes

If your car is shaking or driving, whether parked in idle or driving, it is important that you do not drive it any further. The longer you drive on a car that is experiencing mechanical malfunctions, the more damage you will do to it. And the more damage you do to your vehicle, the more expensive it will be to repair. In fact, you may total it.

Always contact a trusted Indianapolis towing company for prompt and professional light duty toe services for your broken down vehicle. They can safely transport your vehicle to your automotive repair shop of choice for professional diagnosis and repair.

Not sure which towing company in Indianapolis to trust for cheap rates and fast service? Contact Zore’s Towing for 24 hour roadside assistance  and tow truck service in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties. We provide towing, recovery, equipment transport, car lockout service, flat tire service, jump starts, refueling, and more!

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The Vital Link Between Tire Inflation and Safe Driving

If you are under the impression that your tire pressure has no influence on the dependability and performance of your vehicle, you are wrong. Continue below to learn how under-inflation and over-inflation of tires can be dangerous for you, your car, and possibly other drivers and pedestrians around you.

Emergency Roadside Assistance Indianapolis Indiana 317-247-8484
Emergency Roadside Assistance Indianapolis Indiana 317-247-8484

Correct Tire Inflation is Essential for Safe Driving and Efficient Performance

There are many reasons why you should take good care of your car. Not only is your vehicle a very expensive investment that you want to last for as long as possible, but your safety can also be at risk if your car is not performing at its best. One of the most overlooked factory-scheduled car maintenance requirements for ALL vehicles is tire care.

Tires should be in good condition at all times. And as soon as they begin to show signs of wear and tear, it is time to have them replaced. In between tire replacement, your tires require regular rotations and balancing, as well as daily air pressure monitoring.

If you fail to take good care of your tires, they can begin to lose their ability to do their job, which can put your safety at risk. Tire pressure is a common problem that can influence your overall tire performance and safety. Be sure to routinely inspect your tires for proper inflation; you don’t want them to be over or under-inflated.

Why Under-Inflated Tires are Unsafe:

Bulges can form in the tire walls, which can weaken areas of the tires, and put them at a higher risk of blowing out on the road.

Under-inflated tires will cause reduced fuel efficiency, which affects a driver’s budget and vehicle reliability.

Under-inflated tires will impede vehicular mobility, which can be dangerous in defensive driving scenario and inclement weather, and while navigating small spaces.

Why Over-Inflated Tires are Unsafe:

Over-inflated tires can cause an increase air temperature within them, which can lead to sudden tire blowouts while driving. Furthermore, over-inflated tires lead to an imbalance of contact on the road among all four tires, which can hinder vehicular mobility and handling.

According to a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):

A tire that is 25% above the recommended tire pressure is 2 times more likely to be involved in a collision. A tire that is 25% below the recommended tire pressure is 3 times more likely to be involved in a collision.

There are virtually 11,000 tire-related motor vehicle accidents every year. Nearly 75% of roadside flat tires are a result of improper tire pressure.

Got a Flat Tire?

If you get a flat tire as a result of over or under-inflation, you can try to repair it yourself if you have a spare tire or an emergency roadside kit. If you are not capable of repairing or changing your flat, you can contact a local towing company for 24 hour roadside assistance service in Indianapolis. They can respond to your location within a short amount of time, repair your tire, or tow you to the location of your choice. Whether it is 3 o’clock in the morning or 5:30 PM rush hour, they have the resources to get you back on the road in no time at all.

Are you looking for truly affordable and highly dependable roadside assistance service in Central Indiana? Contact Zore’s Towing for 24 hour roadside assistance  and towing in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties. We provide towing, recovery, equipment transport, car lockout service, flat tire service, jump starts, refueling, and more!

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What to Do if Your Truck Broke Down in Indianapolis

Learn what you need to do after your truck breaks down in Indianapolis or the surrounding areas.

Fast Tow Truck Indianapolis Indiana 317-247-8484
Fast Tow Truck Indianapolis Indiana 317-247-8484

Truck Roadside Emergency and Towing in Indianapolis

Your truck is more than a car or primary vehicle; it is an asset, tool, and means of work. So, when your truck breaks down, there is no time to waste. Your bottom line suffers the longer your truck is out of service. Fortunately, you can get your truck back on the road fast with the right roadside emergency knowledge.

Follow these instructions if your truck just broken down in Indianapolis:

Establish Safety

The first thing you want to do after your truck breaks down in Indianapolis is pull over to the side of the road as safely as possible and put on your hazard lights. Try to pull over to the right side of the road, as this is the safest spot on any street or interstate. Of course, this isn’t always possible, especially if your truck breaks down suddenly and unexpectedly. So, if you end up on the left side of the road, just be sure to remain in your vehicle for safety reasons.

If your truck breaks down at a stoplight or stop sign, put on your hazard lights, wait for traffic to clear, then get out of your truck. Put your gear in neutral, then with your left hand on your door and your right hand on the steering wheel, push your truck to a safer spot, either to the side of the street or a parking lot. If you can’t do this yourself, ask another driver or pedestrian for help or simply wait in your vehicle and move onto the next step.

Contact a 24 Hour Towing Service

Contact a local Indianapolis towing and recovering company and give them your contact information and location details. They should be able to dispatch a tow truck operator out to your location within the hour. Be sure describing your type of truck. Depending on your make and model truck, you may require a flatbed, lowboy, or even Landoll tow truck. You can choose to have your truck towed to your house, business, or an automotive repair shop of your choice.

Remain in Your Vehicle While Help is On the Way

It is very important to remain inside of your truck while you wait for a tow truck to arrive unless you are in a predictably safe location, like a parking lot or subdivision. It is also important that you do not try to repair your truck yourself. Not only can this endeavor put you in the line of danger, especially if you’re on the side of the interstate, but it can also cause more damage to your vehicle, especially if your lack proper automotive mechanical knowledge.

Notify Your Insurance Carrier

If you wish to have your car repaired, you’ll likely want covered by your insurance policy. If you have a roadside assistance package included with your insurance policy, your insurance company may reimburse you for towing fees as well.

Are you ready to have your truck professionally towed to the location of your choice after breaking down in Indy? Contact Zore’s Towing for affordable towing and recovery service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve all of Central Indiana.

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Where You Should Wait When Waiting for a Tow Truck

When your car breaks down on the side of the road, there are important safety measures to uphold. Many drivers unassumingly place themselves in the line of danger when waiting for assistance to arrive. Continue below to learn where you should stand (or sit) when you are waiting for a towing service to arrive at the scene of your accident or roadside emergency.

Fast Towing Indianapolis Indiana 317-247-8484
Fast Towing Indianapolis Indiana 317-247-8484

How to Stay Safe After a Car Accident or Breakdown

Highways and Interstates

Many drivers and passengers automatically gear up to exit the vehicle after an accident or breakdown, but this is not always the safest protocol. In fact, most situations call for drivers and passengers to remain in their vehicle until assistance arrives. Such is the case with highway or interstate roadside emergencies.

Highway traffic travels at high speeds and many drivers are distracted by their phones, stereos, kids, and more. For this reason, it is not recommended to exit your vehicle if you are on a freeway unless it is absolutely necessary. If you must get out on the highway, proceed to the farthest point away from the road. If you were just involved in a car wreck, remain in the vehicle until law enforcement or paramedics arrive to block off traffic.

Shoulders

Generally, when a car begins to breakdown, the driver has time to pull it over to the shoulder of the road. If this happens to you, be sure you choose a safe place to stand or sit while waiting for a tow truck or roadside assistance company. Do not stand in the front, on the side, or in the back of your vehicle. These are blind spots for other drivers who might collide into you. Instead, find a spot off of the road to wait, whether a median, patch of grass, driveway, or parking lot.

Intersections

If your car breaks down or is involved in a wreck at an intersection, your best bet is to stay in the vehicle until authorities arrive. Once police and ambulances get there, they will use their power and resources to block off traffic and reroute it as needed. If you must exit your vehicle at an intersection, try to do so when the lights are at your advantage.

How to Deal With an Emergency Car Breakdown in Indianapolis

If you are involved in a car wreck or breakdown, contact a 24 hour tow truck company in Indianapolis for emergency roadside assistance services. You may also add roadside assistance benefits to your current auto insurance policy to protect you from future automotive emergencies.

Do you have a roadside car emergency in Indianapolis, Indiana? Contact Zore’s Towing for 24 hour tow truck and roadside assistance services you can afford. We serve all of Central Indiana, including Lebanon, Greenwood, and Avon areas.

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How to Check Your Car Before Going on a Long-Distance Road Trip

Everyday errands and daily commutes are not something we put a lot of thought into, but before leaving on a long distance drive, it is important to pay closer attention to the condition of your vehicle. Not only will this guarantee a streamlined and time-efficient journey, but it will also ensure your safety as well as the safety of your passengers and other drivers on the road.

Continue reading to learn how to check your car before going on a long distance road trip, plus what to do in an emergency roadside situation if something happens along the way.

24 HR Roadside Assistance Indianapolis Indiana 317-247-8484
24 HR Roadside Assistance Indianapolis Indiana 317-247-8484

Road Trip Safety Starts With a Car Inspection

A key element of road trip safety is the pre-trip car inspection. It is important to ensure that your vehicle is well-equipped to deliver safe and smooth driving from start to finish. Although it is encouraged to examine as many areas and systems as you like, when performing a pre-trip vehicle inspection, focus on mirrors, horn, windshield, lights (interior and exterior), tires, strange sounds, and warning lights on the dashboard.

Mirrors and Horn

Your car mirrors will play a large role in the safety of your commute when traveling long-distance. Not only do you want to ensure that your mirrors are in good condition, meaning they are free of chips and cracks, but you also want them to be clean, clear, and properly positioned so that you are able to see around your vehicle when in the driver seat. Additionally, check to see that your horn sounds loud and not muffled in any way. Your horn can be an essential safety tool on the road.

Windshields

There are a few elements to inspect when it comes your car’s windshields. First, be sure that your front and back windshields are free of cracks and chips. If your windshield has damage, you must repair the damage before leaving on a long distance road trip. Too many hazards can arise from a cracked or chipped windshield, especially at high speeds.

Also, be sure that your windshield wiper fluid is filled all the way and you have an extra bottle in the trunk for re-fills. Last, be sure your windshield wipers are in good condition. They are easy and inexpensive to replace, so you might want to upgrade regardless. Quality wipers make a world of difference in bad weather or unexpected splashes.

Lights

When it comes to inspecting your car lights, be sure to cover the interior cabin lights as well as the headlights and taillights. Also, be sure your turn signals, reverse lights, hazard lights, and marker lights are working. If your lights are dimmer than they usually are, you might need to inspect the car battery or alternator. You might also want to throw in a set of jumper cables in your trunk in case your battery dies on the road.

Tires

The quality of your tires will impact your gas mileage, drive stability, road traction, vehicular performance, and even steering. Before you leave on a road trip, check both tire pressure and tire tread. Use a tire pressure gauge to check the tire pressure in each tire. Use a penny to test the thread depth. Stick a penny inside a groove, upside down. If you see Lincoln’s head, your tire tread is too low. Be sure to check each tire!

New Noises

Before leaving on a road trip, it is important to listen to your vehicle. Start by turning your car on and listening for any strange or new sounds while the engine sits in idle. Then take your car for a short drive and listen for any other sounds that are out of the ordinary. Strange noises, either new or existing, and diagnosed. Sometimes, weird noises in your vehicle are a sign of a more serious mechanical problem.

Illuminated Warning Lights

Sounds are not the only warning sign of an underlying mechanical issue in a vehicle. Pay attention to your dashboard before leaving on a long-distance road trip. If any warning lights are illuminated, it is encouraged to have them diagnosed before hitting the pavement. You do not want to run into any roadside emergencies or serious breakdowns in the middle of your trip!

If you ever breakdown in or around Central Indiana, do not panic. You have a qualified roadside emergency response team on your side! Just call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour roadside assistance and towing in Indianapolis, Indiana, and its surrounding counties.

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How to Tell the Difference Between a Bad Battery and Bad Alternator

Diagnosing mysterious automotive issues is just part of being a car owner. But without proper training and education, maintaining a comprehensive understanding of automotive mechanics is not easily accomplished. So, when something starts to go wrong with your car, it is impossible for you to mistake it for something else. Such is the case with batteries and alternators.

Because the car battery and alternator both contribute to electrical power sourcing in the car, they can exhibit overlapping signs of malfunction. If you are having electrical problems in your vehicle, it could be the car battery or the alternator, or possibly even the starter. In either case, it is not safe to drive a vehicle in this condition.

Continue reading to learn how to tell the difference between a bad bet battery and about alternator, plus what to do if you detect these symptoms in your vehicle while driving.

24 Hour Roadside Assistance Indianapolis Indiana 317-247-8484
24 Hour Roadside Assistance Indianapolis Indiana 317-247-8484

Battery or Alternator? Or Starter?

Symptoms of a Bad Alternator

In most cases, the car battery is to blame rather than the alternator. That is because alternators typically last between eight and twelve years, only requiring replacement prematurely in the case of acute damage. However, the signs of failing alternator are very similar to the signs of car battery malfunction, sometimes making it tricky to confirm an alternator issue. For this reason, it is important how the car battery tested before having your alternator checked out.

The most common signs of a failing alternator include:

▷ Illuminated Check Engine Light
▷ Flickering Dashboard Lights
▷ Dimming Dashboard Lights
▷ Smell Of Burnt Rubber
▷ Whirring or Grinding Sounds
▷ Car Dying Immediately After Jump Start

Symptoms of a Failing Car Battery

As mentioned, before you have your alternator checked out for any defects, first test to see if it’s the car battery causing your automotive problems. The most common signs of a failing car battery include a battery older than 5 years, dimming dashboard lights, dimming headlights or taillights, and an illuminated check engine light. However, there are many more signs of a bad car battery, and you need to know them all.

The most common signs of a bad car battery include:

▷ Aging Car Battery
▷ Low Battery Fluid
▷ Leaky Car Battery
▷ Dimming Headlights/Taillights
▷ Illuminated Check Engine Light
▷ Visible Battery Corrosion
▷ Swollen Battery Case
▷ Slowly Cranking Engine

Diagnosing a Bad Car Starter

In many cases, after troubleshooting the car battery and alternator, a person can come up empty-handed. When this happens, is typically the starter to blame. Common signs of a bad car starter include many of the same symptoms of about alternator or battery, but also seeing visible smoke coming from the car after starting it and an engine that refuses to crank over. If your car won’t start, but the lights come on, it is a definite sign that the starter is failing.

Is your vehicle exhibiting any of these signs of automotive malfunction while out on the road? If so, don’t drive it any further. Contact Zore’s Towing for 24 hour roadside assistance and towing services in Indianapolis and its surrounding locations. We operate 24/7, year-round.

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