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Vehicle Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Car Functional on the Road

by Aubree Richardson

A towing service should be called if your car is broken down, has been in an accident, or is stuck in the snow or mud. Having your car towed or having a tow service jumpstart your battery or pull you out of the snow is a better choice than risking damage to your car by trying to handle these emergencies on your own. If you find that you often need to call a towing service, note a few simple tips you might consider when it comes to caring for your car and keeping you safe on the road.

1. Weak Battery

It's not unusual for car owners to buy the cheapest battery on the market when they need a new one, and then neglect it during the winter months. In turn, a tow truck needs to be called during those frigid mornings when the car won't start. Invest in the strongest battery that is recommended for your car and know the difference between its overall power, which runs the electrical systems of your car, and its cold cranking amps, which is the power needed to start your car when the battery is cold. You can also get a battery charger that you keep in the garage and which hooks up to your car's battery to keep it fully charged.

2. Tires Not Meant for Their Driving Conditions 

Snow tires have a deeper tread that is meant for driving in ice and snow, but car owners often neglect to put these on their car as winter approaches. You may also need tires meant for off-roading, if you drive in sandy or muddy conditions. Using these can keep your vehicle out of the mud and sand. While all-season tires can work for light snow and mud, if you drive in anything very deep, switch to snow tires every year.

3. Neglecting Regular Tune-Ups and Oil Changes

An overheated engine, cracked radiator, broken hoses and other such damage are often common reasons for a car to break down and need a towing service. When you get a tune-up and oil change, your mechanic can check for hoses that are not in good condition, fluid leaks, and the like. Having them repaired at the first sign of damage can keep your engine running smoothly. Fresh oil and having the other fluids in your car topped off can also keep your car's engine cool, and new spark plugs can mean not putting excess wear and tear on the engine when trying to start it.

However, if you end up stranded on the side of the road, don't hesitate to contact a towing service, such as Dickies, for a little help.

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