When your car breaks down, you need roadside assistance fast, not a long search for someone to call. Here’s what to do first to stay safe, and how QuickMechs gets a verified mechanic or a tow truck to you in a few taps.
One minute you’re driving. The next, you’re stranded.
You’re heading to work, picking up the kids, or running an errand. Then the engine loses power. A warning light flashes. You hear a noise you’ve never heard before, or the car just won’t move.
Now you’re on the side of the road, maybe somewhere you don’t know, wondering what went wrong and who to call.
For most drivers, the breakdown isn’t the worst part. The worst part is not knowing where to find help you can trust.
What to do first when your car breaks down
1. Get safe. If you can, move your car out of traffic. Turn on your hazard lights and stay away from passing vehicles. If you’re on a highway or in immediate danger, call 911 or your local highway authority first.
2. Spot the likely problem. Common breakdown causes include:
- A dead battery
- A flat tire
- An overheating engine
- A mechanical failure
- A fuel problem
- An electrical fault
Don’t attempt any repair that puts you or other drivers at risk.
3. Decide: mechanic or tow? Some problems, like a dead battery or a flat tire, can often be fixed where you are. Others need a garage. If you notice serious engine trouble, brake problems or heavy overheating, don’t keep driving.
The hard part: finding roadside assistance you can trust
Stranded drivers usually face the same questions:
- Who can I call right now?
- Can someone come to me?
- How much will it cost?
- How do I explain what’s wrong?
- Do I need a tow truck?
Searching for answers on the side of the road only adds to the stress. That’s where QuickMechs comes in.
Roadside assistance in a few taps with QuickMechs
QuickMechs puts help in your pocket:
- Instant Mechanic. Request a verified mechanic who comes to your location, wherever you’re stuck.
- Instant Towing. If your car needs a garage, enter your pickup and destination and track the tow truck live.
- Live tracking. Watch your mechanic or tow truck on the map, so you know exactly when help will arrive.
- Upfront pricing. See the cost before you confirm. No surprises when you’re already stressed.
- Verified mechanics. A network of about 9,000 vetted technicians across the United States.
- Protected work. Eligible repairs include a 12-month or 12,000-mile workmanship warranty.
- Pay over time. If the repair costs more than you planned, check whether Fix Now, Pay Over Time is available for your repair.
Unexpected repair bill? Read Car Repair Financing: Fix It Now, Pay Over Time.
How to get roadside help with QuickMechs
- Open the QuickMechs app.
- Choose Instant Mechanic or Instant Towing.
- Share your location and tell us what’s wrong.
- See the price, confirm, and track help all the way to you.
Don’t wait for a breakdown to make a plan
Keep your car maintained, know what to do in an emergency, and have help ready on your phone before you need it.
Download QuickMechs and register your free account today, so roadside assistance is one tap away.
- iPhone: Download QuickMechs on the App Store
- Android: Download QuickMechs on Google Play
- Website: quickmechs.com
Have questions? Book a call with the QuickMechs team.
Stay safe. Tap for help. Get back on the road.
In an emergency or if you’re in immediate danger, call 911. Service availability may vary by location. Fix Now, Pay Over Time is subject to eligibility, approval and availability. Warranty applies to eligible repairs completed through the QuickMechs platform.