No one plans for their vehicle to break down—but when it does happen, how you choose to handle it makes all the difference. While some drivers may feel tempted to diagnose and fix the problem themselves, modern vehicles are more advanced than ever. Without the right tools or training, tackling roadside repairs on your own can be time-consuming, costly, and even dangerous.
The good news? Getting expert help is easier than you think. Most drivers already have access to roadside assistance through their auto insurance or vehicle warranty. With just a few taps on your phone, you can connect with certified professionals who know exactly how to get you back on the road—quickly and safely.
If you’re the hands-on type, your first instinct might be to handle a breakdown yourself. But today’s cars are built with complex electronics, computer systems, and EV-specific components that often require specialized tools and knowledge. Even something that used to be straightforward—like changing a tire—isn’t always simple anymore, especially as many vehicles no longer include a spare.
Half of drivers try to DIY when faced with roadside trouble—but about a third of those attempts fail, leading to even more delays and complications. Beyond the risk of wasting time, DIY repairs can be downright dangerous. Whether you're on the shoulder of a highway or stuck in a poorly lit area, working near moving traffic or in bad weather puts your safety at risk.
Instead of relying on yourself—or waiting on a friend or family member to help—your roadside assistance program gives you access to trained professionals. These licensed and insured service providers are experts in assessing the situation, selecting the right tools, and either fixing your vehicle on the spot or arranging a safe tow when needed.
There are more than 35,000 towing and roadside service companies across the U.S., ready to assist drivers in parking lots, on highways, or even in their own driveways. While a quick online search will give you a long list of options, knowing which provider is right for your specific situation can be tricky. Prices, response times, and capabilities vary—making it difficult to know who to trust when time is critical.
That’s where your roadside assistance program comes in. Whether it’s offered through your auto insurance, vehicle manufacturer, or a third-party provider, these programs maintain pre-vetted networks of local service professionals. That means you don’t have to spend time comparing providers—they’ve already been screened for experience, response time, safety standards, and customer satisfaction.
When a provider is dispatched through your program, you can be confident they’ve passed background checks, maintain proper insurance, and consistently meet high standards for service quality. It’s not just about getting someone there fast—it’s about getting the right person for the job.
Roadside assistance isn’t one-size-fits-all. The type of issue you’re experiencing will determine the service you need, whether it’s a tow, a jump-start, fuel delivery, or something else entirely. The information you provide at the time of your request plays a big role in getting the correct equipment and support to your location.Accurate information ensures a faster response and helps the provider come prepared with everything needed to solve the problem efficiently.
Be ready to share details like:
Accurate information ensures a faster response and helps the provider come prepared with everything needed to solve the problem efficiently.
A vehicle breakdown doesn’t have to ruin your day. With roadside assistance just a few taps away, you can skip the stress of DIY and connect with a trained professional who will get you moving again—safely and efficiently. Don’t wait until you’re stuck on the shoulder to prepare. Get set up now, and you’ll be ready for whatever the road throws your way.