Being stranded on the side of the road is every driver's nightmare. Whether you’re heading out on a long road trip or just commuting to work, unexpected car troubles can strike at the worst times. While we all hope to avoid roadside emergencies, it’s important to know what to expect and how to handle them. Knowing the most common issues drivers face on the road can help you stay prepared and turn a stressful situation into a minor inconvenience.

Flat Tires

There’s nothing quite like the sinking feeling you get when you hear that unmistakable thump-thump of a flat tire. Tires are one of the most vulnerable parts of your car, exposed to rough roads, sharp debris, and sudden potholes. A blowout can happen anytime, leaving you stranded until you can change the tire or call for help.

To reduce your chances of dealing with a flat, it's crucial to check your tire pressure regularly and keep an eye out for worn tread. Don’t forget to inspect your spare tire occasionally, too—it won’t do you any good if it's flat as well. And while you're at it, ensure that you have a working jack and lug wrench in your trunk so you're ready to handle a flat tire on your own if needed.

Dead Battery

You’re all set to start your day, but your car has other plans. A dead battery can catch anyone by surprise, especially on a cold winter morning or after leaving your lights on overnight. While car batteries generally last between 3 to 5 years, they can drain faster if exposed to extreme temperatures or if your vehicle isn't driven regularly.

To avoid a dead battery, pay attention to warning signs like dimming headlights, slow engine crank, or that dreaded dashboard battery light. Investing in a portable jump starter or keeping jumper cables in your car can be a real lifesaver. It’s also a smart move to get your battery tested at least once a year to ensure it's holding a charge properly.

Engine Overheating

There’s nothing worse than seeing that temperature gauge inch into the red zone, especially in the middle of a hot summer day. An overheating engine can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a coolant leak, a broken radiator fan, or even a faulty thermostat. Ignoring an overheating engine can lead to severe damage and a hefty repair bill, so it’s essential to pull over as soon as it’s safe.

If you find yourself in this situation, turn off the air conditioner and turn on the heater to help draw heat away from the engine. Let the engine cool down before checking under the hood, and never open a hot radiator cap—it could cause severe burns. Regularly checking your coolant levels and inspecting your radiator for leaks can prevent overheating issues from ruining your drive.

Running Out of Fuel

We've all been there, thinking we can push just a few more miles out of that gas tank before filling up. But running out of fuel is a more common roadside emergency than you might think. Maybe it’s due to a faulty fuel gauge, or maybe you simply underestimated your remaining range. Either way, it’s an easily avoidable problem that can leave you stranded in a not-so-ideal location.

To avoid running on empty, make it a habit to refill your tank when it gets below a quarter full. And if you’re heading on a long trip, plan your route with fuel stops in mind, especially if you’re driving through rural areas where gas stations can be few and far between. Keeping a portable gas can in your trunk can also save the day if you ever miscalculate.

Locking Yourself Out

It happens to the best of us: you step out of the car, shut the door, and realize the keys are still in the ignition. Getting locked out of your vehicle is frustrating and inconvenient, especially if you’re far from home. While many newer cars come with keyless entry or remote unlock features, older vehicles may leave you stuck without a spare key nearby.

One way to avoid this mishap is to always check that you have your keys in hand before closing the door. Consider investing in a magnetic key box that you can hide underneath your car or carrying a spare key in your wallet. If all else fails, having the number of a reliable roadside assistance service can get you back into your car in no time.

Facing car troubles on the road? Don’t let a flat tire or dead battery ruin your day. Contact ATS Fleet Service for quick and reliable roadside assistance. We’ll get you back on track in no time!