3 Things You Should Not Do if Your Car Gets Stuck in Snow

Just as every Indiana winter promises, the snow has arrived, and commuters everywhere are sliding all over the road. If you find yourself stuck in snow like so many other drivers to this time of year, you are not out of luck. There are plenty of things you can do to get unstuck from a snowy ditch or pileup. However, there are also things you should NEVER do, as they can put you and your vehicle in grave danger, and they simply do not work. Instead, all they do is exert your energy and add more frustration to the cause.

Continue reading to learn what you should not do if your car gets stuck in the snow, and the one thing that always works every time.

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Car Stuck in Snow? DON’T TRY THIS:

Do Not Rock Your Car

You have seen it in the movies, and perhaps even in real life, but it will not work out well for you. When stuck in snow, do not try to drive and reverse over and over again in attempt to “rock” your vehicle out of its stuck position. Not only does this waste enormous amount of gas, but it also creates a massive fume cloud that can be distracting or obstructive to passing drivers. Furthermore, it can put strain on your transmission, deplete your car of its essential fluids, and even kill the battery.

☒ ☒ Do Not Get Out and Push

One of the most dangerous things you can do to free your car from snow is to try to push it from the front or from behind. You might be thinking, “well I can’t get hit by a car if I am in the middle of nowhere.” But this is dangerous for other reasons other than the risk of being struck by a passing vehicle. You see, cars can instantly release when you are not expecting it to, and roll over whoever is in the way. Even if you are not near a busy road, you can still get run over by your own vehicle if you try this method.

☒ ☒ ☒ Do Not Floor the Gas

A common reaction for anyone who’s car is stuck in snow is to stomp on the gas pedal. But this is not the right choice. Just like rocking your car back and forth, you are putting unnecessary strain on your engine, fuel system, and internal hardware. Not only can this cause costly damage, but it can also be very dangerous. You do not want to jolt out of your stuck position suddenly, and possibly into oncoming traffic, or worse, a person. This happens more often than you think.

Safe Ways to Pull a Car Out of a Ditch

Indianapolis Roadside Assistance is the Key to Get Your Car Un-Stuck

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour roadside assistance in Indianapolis and throughout Central Indiana. Our friendly staff is waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

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3 Safe Ways to Pull a Car Out of a Ditch

There are many contributing factors as to why your vehicle is now stuck in a ditch on the side of the road. It could be a combination of anything from oil spills and slippery roads, to poor vision, bald tires, low tire pressure, distracted driving, and all types of harsh or dangerous weather conditions. Overall, there are many reasons why car wind up in ditches. The good news is that you have several options to choose from, all of which will help to ensure your safety, protect your vehicle, and get you back on the road again.

Continue reading to learn what you can do to pull your car out of a ditch in the safest way possible.

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Secure Your Safety Before You Begin

Even though you are on the side of the road, you are still vulnerable. So, the very first task you have after driving into a ditch is ensuring your safety and the safety of your passengers if you have any. Do this by first by turning off your ignition and putting your hazard lights on. Next, you will need to also put your parking brake on to prevent sliding down further into the recession. If you are in a high-traffic area or on a dangerous roadway, you should contact police and inform them of your accident so they can help block traffic.

3 Ways of Getting a Car Out of a Ditch:

Alter Your Vehicle’s Weight

If your vehicle was not damaged, you might be able to drive it out of the ditch yourself. Do this by adjusting your vehicle’s weight. If you have heavy items in the backseat or trunk, get rid of them temporarily. This includes all passengers. Just be sure they are safe and far from the side of the road. A lighter load can help your car get out. Also be sure to remove your parking brake before trying to drive out. If you are stuck in snow or mud, you will actually need the extra weight to gain traction. This brings us to your next option.

Add Some Traction

Your car is stuck because it lacks a sufficient amount of traction to grab the ground and propel itself out. To remedy this problem, find some traction. If you have rear wheel drive, place something that will provide traction behind the rear tires. If you have front wheel drive, place these items in front of the front tires. Items that may work include carpet mats, sand, cardboard, clothing, and blankets.

Contact a 24 Hour Tow Truck for Emergency Roadside Assistance

It is pointless to try over and over again if your car is stuck. After a few attempts, if you are not successful, it is time to contact an Indianapolis roadside assistance towing company. They have the proper equipment to safely pull your car out of a ditch. They operate on a 24 hour basis, and can respond to your location quickly because they are dispatched from the road. Their rates are fair as long as you choose a reputable and experienced towing service.

Affordable Indiana Tow Truck and Roadside Assistance Services

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour towing and roadside assistance in Indianapolis and throughout Central Indiana. Our friendly staff is waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

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3 Simple Steps to Using a Trailer Hitch Adapter

Trailer hitch adapters are great because they do just that: adapt. You can use them with a 2 inch hitch accessory with a 1 ¼ inch receiver. Even better, trailer hitch adapters can also be used with hitch-mounted bike racks and cargo carriers that are designed for a 2 inch receiver hitch. Keep in mind, you still must use cargo support straps to prevent your cargo from moving around or creating strain on your trailer hitch. Fortunately, using a trailer hitch adapter is as easy as 1, 2, 3!

Continue below to learn the 3 simplest steps to using a trailer hitch adapter, as well as a lifesaving tip that will protect you in the case that your trailer hitch fails you on the road.

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A Vital Warning Before You Begin

Never use a hitch-mounted carrier lift with a trailer hitch adapter. Furthermore, when using a trailer hitch adapter, be sure to use a cargo support system, such as straps, to prevent movement of your load, as well as decrease extra stress on the adapter. Additionally, you much check your receiver hitch tongue weight rating before setting up. You want your tongue weight rating to be greater than your combined cargo weight. A review of gross vehicle weight ratings will help you calculate your numbers.

Now Let’s Put That Trailer Hitch Adapter to Good USE!

Okay, now before using your trailer hitch adapter, check again to be sure that the receiver hitch tongue weight is higher than the weight of your cargo, including the weight of your towing vehicle. Now that you have that ready to go, let’s put that hitch adapter to good use!

First, take your trailer hitch adapter and insert it inside your towing vehicle’s hitch receiver. Then secure it with your pin and clip.

Second, put on your 2 inch hitch accessory, and then safely secure it with another pin and clip set.

Third, further secure your hitch accessory by adding on a set of quality cargo support straps.

While Using Your Trailer Hitch Adapter…

On and off the road, be sure to routinely inspect and adjust your trailer hitch adapter as needed. This improves the setup’s safety, security, and overall performance. If you are ever in a jam while out on the road, do not try to “rig up” your trailer hitch or adapter to “just get you home.” Not only is this incredibly dangerous to you and your cargo, but it is also a danger to other drivers on the road. Instead, contact a 24 hour roadside assistance tow truck for emergency response service. They have the fleet, gear, and resources to ensure your trailer and towing vehicle are safe to hit the road again.

Who to Trust for 24 Hour Roadside Assistance and Emergency Towing in Indiana

If your towing vehicle breaks down while hauling a camper or RV in Central Indiana, call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour roadside assistance and emergency towing. Our friendly staff is waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

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How to Get Your Car Out After Driving into a Ditch

Now that some snow trickle has arrived, it is officially that time of year when the most traffic accidents take place. One of the most common roadway emergencies seen during Indiana winters are cars that wind up driving into a ditch. When this happens, drivers are typically stuck unless they take some action to free their vehicle from the trench.

If you are currently facing the same situation, continue reading to learn how to get your car out after driving it into a ditch. At least one of these solutions will guarantee your safety and release.

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Address Your Safety

The very first thing you should do after driving into a ditch is address everyone’s safety, including your own. Once you know everyone is unharmed, take several minutes to observe your surroundings. Do not immediately get out of your car to examine the damage. Instead, wait first, and ensure that you are out of the way of oncoming traffic or any other hazards. If anyone is hurt, call 911 and request paramedics right away.

Attempt to Get Out on Your Own

Now comes the part where you attempt to get your car out of the ditch it is in, all on your own. In minor cases of cars being stuck in ditches, it is possible to do this with very little effort. Start by seeing if you can alter the load weight inside your vehicle. Perhaps move around some luggage or belongings from the back to the front, or vice versa, or remove them altogether. This adjustment might help your car gain enough traction to free itself from the ditch.

If not, it is time to address traction. You can place certain things in front of your wheels to increase traction. Try cardboard, sand, cat litter, and even your floor mats. For front wheel drive cars, focus on the front wheels. For rear-wheel drive cars, focus on placing things in front of the back wheels.

Contact a 24 Hour Tow Truck

When all else fails, your surefire way of freeing a car stuck in the ditch is emergency roadside assistance services. Contact a local, 24 hour towing company that offers roadside assisting, including recovery service, which is what you need to pull your vehicle out of the trench. Your car insurance might cover this fee, otherwise, it is very affordable. You can expect to pay anywhere from $25 to $75 or so.

Affordable and Fast 24 Hour Roadside Assistance for Central Indiana

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour roadside assistance in Indiana. Our friendly staff is waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

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Stay Safe By Keeping These 6 Things in Your Car at All Times

For anyone who operates a vehicle, road safety should be at the top of the priority list. But being “road safe” doesn’t stop at safe driving; it also requires being prepared for emergencies, whether that’s a flat tire, stalled engine, dead battery, or something more catastrophic. Fortunately, you can better prepare yourself for unanticipated road emergencies by keep certain items in your vehicle at all times.

Continue reading to learn at least 6 items that can help you during your next road emergency.

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Jumper Cables

If your car battery dies, your jumper cables will save you from a major setback or costly tow. Always keep workable jumper cables in the trunk of your vehicle. Never remove them. Today, many jumper cables can be purchased in a nicely-compacted package that won’t take up too much space in your trunk. Be sure you also know how to jump start a dead car battery.

Spare Tire and Tools

In the case that you get a flat, it is quite possible to change your tire yourself, that is, if you have a spare one on hand. Most cars come with a factory spare, but if you bought your car used, it might be missing. Be sure to check your car for a spare, and if you do not have one, buy one that matches your make and model vehicle. Spare tires are available for sale at any local tire store or automotive parts store.

Flashlight or Lamp

If your car breaks down at night, especially if it’s due to a dead battery, it might be too dark to see what you are doing. Not only does this hinder your ability to identify and resolve the issue, but it can also put you and your passengers in danger of being hit by other vehicles. Avoid these problems by keeping a quality flashlight or lantern in your car, along with an extra set of batteries.

Blanket

In the case that your car breaks down in the middle of a cold season, and your heat does not work, you would be safer and more comfortable with a blanket. If you commonly have passengers with you, add more blankets.

Water

Just like blankets, water is another prime roadside emergency item to have. Keep a gallon jug or a 6-pack of bottled water in your trunk in the case that your engine overheats, or you are broken down for a long period of time without food or beverage.

Fully-Charged Portable Phone Charger

There are several portable phone chargers on the market to choose from. Be sure the one you add to your roadside emergency kit is a good quality brand. Be sure it is fully-charged, and then keep it in your vehicle at all times. Only use it for emergencies. You see, if your car breaks down because of a dead battery, you won’t be able to use your car to plug in your phone. A portable charger solves this common problem.

Indianapolis Indiana Roadside Assistance and Towing Services

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour roadside assistance and towing services in Indianapolis and throughout Central Indiana. Our friendly staff is waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

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How Does Tongue Weight Affect My Car?

Tongue weight (TW) is incredibly important when it comes to towing and hauling cargo with your car. Improper tongue weight would make it very difficult to operate your vehicle, let alone do so safely. If you are not familiar with tongue weight calculations and recommendations, it is vital that you educate yourself before hitting the road with a trailer in tow.

Continue reading to learn how tongue weight effects a car’s ability to perform, and how to determine your make and model’s manufacturer’s instructions for tongue weights and towing capacity.

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What is Tongue Weight?

Tongue weight (TW) is the amount of fixed force the trailer applies on the hitch ball of your vehicle. Without adhering to your vehicle’s manufacturer’s guidelines for tongue weight and towing capacity, you are at a much higher risk of accidents and property damage occurring during the tow. Simply put, it is not safe to tow a trailer that is not putting enough weight or too much weight on the hitch ball.

Without enough weight, the trailer is prone to swaying side to side, which is a leading cause of serious motor vehicle accidents in the country. While starting off as a first time tower, be sure to review what you should do if your trailer starts to sway, just to be prepared in the case of an emergency. If there is too much weight on the hitch ball, then you can risk putting too much force on the back tire of your car, which can cause the rear of the vehicle to sway or lift off of the ground.

Can you picture driving a car with elliptical wheels rather than circular wheels? The ride would most certainly feel unsteady and uncontrollable. Driving a car with improper tongue weight would be much like this. Forget navigating turns, taking corners, backing up, or even braking, successfully. Although this is just a brief explanation of tongue weight, you can see just how dangerous incorrect tongue weight calculations can be for drivers, as well as other pedestrians and passengers on the road.

How to Calculate Your Car and Trailer Tongue Weight

To determine your vehicle and trailer tongue weight guidelines, simply refer to your owners’ manual. The general rule of thumb is that the tongue weight should be approximately 10 to 15 percent of the towing vehicle’s total weight. Take a standard 2,400 lb. sedan loaded with 1,000 lbs. of freight, for instance. The recommended tongue weight would be between 340 and 510 pounds, which is 10 to 15% of the total 3,400 pounds being towed.

Some make and model vehicles require a hitch upgrade for tongue weights higher than a 700 or 800 pounds. One example of this would be the Sierra 1500 pickup truck, which requires owners to switch from a weight-carrying hitch to a weight-distributing hitch. Also, some gooseneck and fifth wheel trailers are designed for heavier loads, so their recommended tongue weights are generally between 15 and 30 percent, rather than 10 to 15 percent.

Where to Get 24 HR Towing and Roadside Assistance in Central Indiana

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour roadside assistance and towing services in Indianapolis and throughout Central Indiana. We are fully-equipped with the right fleets to assist cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, construction equipment, trailers, vans, semi-trucks, airplanes, and much more. Our friendly staff is waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

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Why Do Some Vehicles Have Spare Tires and Others Don’t?

If you are on the hunt for a new vehicle, and a spare tire is something important to you, be sure to pay attention to everything your potential new car comes with. That is because many car manufacturers are not putting spare tires in newer model vehicles anymore. If you find this interesting, wait until you learn why some producers have chosen this practice.

Continue reading to learn the top 4 reasons why some new cars do not come with a spare tire option.

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1. Improved Fuel Efficiency

With the trending green movement becoming so popular that it is almost ingrained in most consumers shopping tendencies, it is no surprise that many car manufacturers are attempting to improve their vehicles fuel efficiency. One effort to accomplish this has been to eliminate the extra weight of a spare tire. This may seem like a trivial amount, but the absence of a spare tire can reduce a vehicle’s overall weight by 30 to 50 pounds. That is because you must also consider the additional weight of the jack and wrench. The benefits from this type of elimination also helps car manufacturers meet the strict EPA guidelines.

2. Increased Storage Space

Although it may not seem like a simple donut or spare can take up a lot of room, in smaller vehicles, its absence can make a huge difference. Vehicles like sports cars, compact cars, eco-conscious cars, electric cars, and even smaller-sized sedans, can all benefit from the lack of a spare. The added space allows for a more comfortable ride.

3. Batteries and Emissions Equipment

In contrast to adding more storage, eliminating a spare tire is a must for many car manufacturers because there is too much space occupied by other equipment. This includes hybrids, electric cars, and diesels. The batteries and emissions equipment of these vehicles takes up the space that would typically house a spare.

4. Decreased Manufacturing Costs

The elimination of a spare tire naturally saves car manufacturers money, hundreds of thousands, in fact. However, many car manufacturers use that savings to improve other performance, aesthetic, and mechanical features. So sometimes, it is a “give and take” situation.

If Your Car Does Not Come With a Spare

If you are the driver of a vehicle that lacks a spare, whether because it was manufactured that way to you just don’t have one, there are still options for you on the road. You can always purchase a properly-sized spare or donut for your vehicle, along with the proper tools (i.e. jack, torque wrench, road triangles, etc.).

Helpful Flat Tire Advice

If you ever find yourself with a flat on the side of the road without one, you can contact a 24 hour emergency roadside assistance service. Some insurance policies actually cover roadside assistance needs, or have their own roadside assistance service. Simply dial the number and wait for help to arrive. Most emergency roadside assistance services operate on a 24 hour basis, 7 days a week and 365 days a year. That is why they are called “emergency” roadside assistance services.

Who to Trust for 24 Hour Towing and Roadside Assistance in Indiana

If your vehicle breaks down at any point during your trip, call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for Indianapolis roadside assistance and towing recovery services you can trust. Our friendly Indiana tow truck operators are certified roadside emergency assistants, and are always waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

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A 4 Point Vehicle Check for Your Autumn Road Trip

Autumn is a wonderful time to take a road trip. You don’t even need to get out of the car to enjoy yourself. Simply taking in all the surrounding, ever-evolving seasonal beauty is enough to make your trip worth it. Tall, verdant evergreens, billowing leafy canopies of golds and oranges, bright yellow foliage, and bustling streams in cold water creeks and river tributaries are just a few of the sites you’ll likely see this year on your Fall Indiana road trip. But if you really want to make the most out of your road trip, your first priority should be preparing the vehicle you intend to drive. After all, you and your passengers are the safest when your vehicle is in the best condition, and fully-equipped with the proper road safety supplies.

In fact, you can feel confident about your car and yourself as the driver by simply performing a 4 point, pre-trip check before hitting the road. Continue below to learn exactly how!

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24 Hour Towing and Roadside Assistance 317-247-8484

4-Point Vehicle Check List for Road Trips

Be sure to do your 6 point vehicular check at least one or two weeks prior to your planned departure date. This time frame will give you plenty of leeway to have needed automotive services or minor repairs done. After ensuring that your car does is operating normally, and does not need any minor repairs or factory scheduled maintenance work, you can move forward with your 4-Point Vehicle Check List!

#1 Automotive Fluids

Your first point to check during your pre-trip vehicular inspection is fluid levels. Be sure that your car, truck, van, or SUV is topped off with all 7 essential automotive fluids. These include battery fluid, transmission fluid, motor oil, power steering fluid, radiator fluid (coolant), brake fluid, and windshield wiper fluid. It is wise to keep an extra bottle of motor oil, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid in the trunk for emergency refills.

#2 Tires

It is critical to check your tire quality and condition before leaving on a long-distance road trip. First, be sure that your tires have been properly rotated and balanced. This is good for alignment, fuel efficiency, and drivability, and more. Next, be sure your tires are properly inflated. Under or over-inflated tires can cause several problems, and unexpected blow outs. Properly inflated tires prevent accidents and injuries, and improve fuel efficiency, vehicle performance, and more.

#3 Emergency Road Kit

Every vehicle should be equipped with an emergency roadside assistance kit, as well as, additional emergency supplies. As mentioned, it is wise to put an extra bottle of motor oil, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid for needed refills. Furthermore, long-distance trips are bound to bring on surprises, so be ready with a full roadside emergency kit. In addition to these items, be sure your vehicle also has a spare tire, jumper cables, bottled water, extra blankets, and if possible, GPS.

#4 Windows and Mirrors

The windows and mirrors on your vehicle are one of the most vital components for driving safety. Before heading out on your long-distance road trip, be sure that all windows are perfectly clean and clear. It is recommended to spray them with a water-repellent solution for extra clarity during a rainy drive. Additionally, be sure your mirrors are clean and positioned at the proper angles. If you plan to switch driver’s mid-way, be sure to repeat this step again.

Call Our Wrecker Operators for 24 Hour Roadside Assistance in Indiana

If your car breaks down in Indiana at any point during your autumn road trip, call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour roadside assistance and more. Our friendly staff is waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

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How to Save Money on Gasoline for Your Car

Even though gasoline prices are the lowest they’ve been for years, drivers are still looking for ways to save money on car fuel. Saving money on gasoline is not only great for your wallet, it is beneficial for the environment. It is in every driver’s best interest to do what they can to reduce fuel consumption and save money on fuel costs.

Continue reading to learn some effective methods for doing just that!

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Do Not Use Premium Gasoline!

Never use premium fuel unless your car specifically requires it. And if your owners’ manual mentions premium fuel, look closer whether it’s “premium recommended” or “premium required”, because there is a difference. If it is a premium-recommended vehicle, you should still just stick to unleaded gas and save yourself money. The only cars that require premium fuel incudes high performance vehicles like 2016 Audi’s and BMW’s, Aston Martins, Alfa Romero’s, and similar luxury foreign cars. Aside from premium-required cars, there is no benefit to using premium grade gasoline, especially in terms of performance and gas mileage. Unleaded gasoline is perfectly safe for your vehicle, and will save you a lot of money on fuel.

Do Not Use the “Top-Off” Method

When filling up the gas tank, many drivers choose to continue filling after the nozzle clicks. Whether to “top it off” or hit an even number, this method of filling up the tank is a wasteful one. The extra fuel will never be used to power the engine, and instead, slosh out and make a mess everywhere. The worst part is that you are paying for fuel you don’t get to use. As soon as the nozzle clicks, your tank is perfectly full. There is no need to top of the tank with additional gasoline.

Double-Check the Gas Cap

After filling up, it is important to double-check the gas cap. Forgetting to replace it is a common mistake, but making sure it’s there is not the only thing to look for. It is also important to make sure the cap is screwed on tight and fully-closed. A loose or missing gas cap will allow fuel to evaporate, wasting your hard-earned, cautiously-spent money.

Park in the Shade

Loose gas caps are not the only thing that can cause your fuel to evaporate. The hot summer sun will do the same! To avoid wasting your fuel, park in shady areas on hot sunny days. If you are not able to park in shade, it is helpful to purchase a windshield cover to reduce the amount of sun exposure inside your car. These are inexpensive and easy to use.

Keep Your Tires Inflated

Deflated tires are a common cause of wasted fuel. When the tires are not properly inflated, your vehicle has to work harder to go, causing the need to use more fuel. Be sure to check your tire pressure once a month to avoid this problem. Never use the maximum pressure recommendations on the side of the tire. The proper tire pressure for your car or truck can be found on the factory sticker on the inside of the door jam on the driver’s side. If it’s not there, check the inside of the glove compartment.

Did You Run Out of Gas in Indianapolis, Indiana?

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for friendly 24 hour roadside assistance, including fuel fill-ups, in Indianapolis, or throughout Central Indiana. We open a family-owned and operated business for 90 years, so you can trust us for prompt and professional service. We are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year, so our certified tow truck operators can be there for you anytime, any day! Request free estimates, anytime.

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Important Information About Transmission Fluid Leaks

When it comes to your car’s transmission, there is nothing more important than ensuring it maintains proper fluid levels. After all, transmission fluid is one of the seven vital automotive fluids that every vehicle needs to operate safely and efficiently. One of the most common causes of lost transmission fluid is a leak.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about transmission fluid leaks, including common facts like how to detect them, and what to do if your car has one.

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24 Hour Towing and Roadside Assistance 317-247-8484

How to Monitor Transmission Fluid

There are many factors that determine how often you should monitor a vehicle’s transmission fluid levels. The frequency of transmission fluid checks primarily depends on the make and model of the vehicle, however, there could be several other more specific factors that you need to know. For instance, most instructions tell you to leave the car engine on while checking the transmission fluid; but, if you are driving a Honda, the engine needs to be turned off. 

If you drive a Dodge model, you have to put in neutral while applying the emergency brake in order to check your transmission fluid. With all the different guidelines and variables that apply to each make and model vehicle and transmission, it is strongly suggested to always refer to your vehicle’s owners’ manual for the right information. You can also contact a local auto shop for professional advice you can trust.  Many mechanics offer free fluid checks, so be sure to take advantage of this when it is time your vehicle is in the shop!

Transmission Leak Dangers

Minor leaks can easily go unnoticed to an untrained eye. In fact, many drivers on the road have automotive fluid leaks and don’t even realize they are there; but it is never safe to drive with a leak, especially if it’s coming from the transmission. Although minor leaks are not likely to impose an immediate danger on the road, they will lead to more severe damages to other car parts, which can cause serious car accidents and injuries, or cost you thousands of dollars in needed repairs and part replacements. These damages are costly, but can fortunately be avoided by not operating the vehicle until it is repaired.

Transmission Leak Detection

The most common sign of a transmission leak is seeing the actual transmission fluid seeping or puddling beneath a car. Transmission fluid is dark red in color. When clean, it is a light pink or red, but when dirty, it will appear burnt orange or brown. If you detect a leak in your transmission, do not continue driving the vehicle. If you are on the road, pull over and contact a 24 hour roadside assistance company. They may be able to patch up your leak and replace your fluid well-enough to get you home or to the nearest mechanic. Otherwise, they can tow your vehicle for you. If you are at home, and notice the leak on your driveway, you should not drive your car. Instead, contact a tow truck to have your car towed to your auto repair shop of choice.

Where to Get Fast Towing and Roadside Assistance in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour roadside assistance and towing in Indianapolis and throughout Central Indiana. We are fully-equipped with the right fleets to assist cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, construction equipment, trailers, vans, semi-trucks, airplanes, and much more. Since 1927, we have a provided a wide range of towing and roadside assistance services, and for the past 90 years, we have earned a reputation for trusted service at a fair price! We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

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