I got stranded last week with a flat tire and realized how unprepared I was. What emergency car fixes should every driver know how to handle? I'm talking about things that can get you home or to a shop when you're on the road. Stuff like changing a tire, jump starting, temporary fixes for leaks, etc. What are the most common roadside emergencies and how do you handle them?
As a mechanic who does roadside assistance calls, here are the most common emergency car fixes everyone should know:
1. Changing a flat tire - practice this at home first
2. Jump starting a dead battery (correct order: donor car positive, your car positive, donor car negative, your car ground point NOT negative terminal)
3. Temporary fix for radiator hose leak with hose repair tape
4. Replacing a broken serpentine belt (keep a spare in your trunk)
5. Clearing flooded engine (if you drive through deep water)
Always keep basic emergency tools in your car: jack, spare tire, jumper cables, flashlight, basic tools, duct tape, and a first aid kit.
Adding to that: knowing how to check and add fluids if you're leaking. Coolant overflow tank is usually easy to access. Also, if your brakes fail, pumping them might build enough pressure to stop. For overheated engine, turn on heater full blast to help cool it (sounds weird but works). And always have water and snacks in your car - emergencies can mean long waits.
I got stuck once because my gas door wouldn't open. Learned that there's usually a manual release in the trunk or under the rear seat. Now I check that on every new car I get. Also, if your key fob battery dies, most cars have a physical key hidden inside the fob and a keyhole behind the door handle (you might need to pop off a cover).
Emergency car fixes I've needed: temporary fix for broken windshield wiper (use the passenger side wiper on driver side if it reaches, or tie a rag to the arm). Also, if your alternator dies but battery has charge, turn off everything electrical and you might make it to a shop. Keep a multi-tool in your glove box - has pliers, knife, screwdrivers that can handle many small emergencies.
Don't forget about getting unstuck from snow or mud. Floor mats under tires can provide traction. Kitty litter or sand helps too. Also, if you lock your keys in the car, some insurance companies have free lockout service. Worth checking before calling a locksmith. And always have your insurance and roadside assistance numbers saved in your phone, not just in the glove box.