Warning Light On? When to Stop Driving and Call a Tow in Calgary

You're heading north on Crowchild Trail, or crawling along 16 Avenue NE, when a light pops up on the dashboard. It's tempting to keep going and deal with it later, but some warnings mean that driving even a few more kilometres can turn a repair into a much bigger one. Dave’s Towing gets calls every day from drivers who aren't sure whether they should drive or tow, so here's a plain guide to help you decide.

Start With Your Owner's Manual

Every vehicle is a little different, and your owner's manual is the best source for what each symbol means on your car. As a general rule, many manufacturers use colour to show how urgent a warning is. Red usually means a serious problem that needs attention right away. Yellow or amber usually means something should be checked soon. Green or blue lights are normally just telling you that a feature is on.

Warning Signs That Usually Mean Pull Over Safely

Your manual has the final word, but these are common signs that it's time to find a safe place to stop and turn off the engine:

• An oil pressure warning, which can mean the engine isn't being lubricated properly.
• A temperature warning, a gauge climbing into the red, or steam coming from under the hood.
• A flashing check engine light, which many manufacturers use to signal a more serious engine problem than a steady light.
• A red brake warning, or brakes that feel soft, grab or make grinding noises.
• A charging or battery warning along with dimming lights, which can mean the car may soon stall.
• Smoke, a burning smell, or fluid pouring from underneath the vehicle.

If any of these happen, signal, move to the shoulder or a parking lot when it's safe, turn on your hazard lights and switch the engine off. On a busy road like Deerfoot Trail or Stoney Trail, stay buckled in if getting out isn't safe. If anyone is hurt or you are in danger, call 911 first.

Signs You Can Usually Drive to a Shop

A steady check engine light with no other symptoms, a tire pressure warning after a cold night, or a reminder that maintenance is due usually means you can carefully drive to a mechanic soon. The car should sound, feel and steer normally. Calgary's cold snaps often trigger tire pressure warnings because air pressure drops in cold weather, so check your tires and top them up.

If the car starts shaking, losing power or making new noises on the way, stop and reassess. Pushing on to save a tow can cost a lot more in the end.

When in doubt, call your mechanic and describe what you're seeing. Many shops can tell you over the phone whether it's safe to bring the car in or whether you should have it towed.

Why a Tow Can Be the Cheaper Choice

Driving with a serious warning can turn a manageable repair into a major one. An engine that overheats or runs low on oil can be badly damaged in a short distance. A tow straight to your mechanic, whether that's in Marlborough, Bowness or Shawnessy, lets the shop diagnose the problem before more damage is done.

If your vehicle is AWD, 4x4 or sits low, let us know. A flatbed tow keeps all four wheels off the road, which many manufacturers recommend for AWD vehicles.

When It's a Roadside Fix Instead

Not every warning means a tow. A dead battery on a minus-30 morning may just need a boost. A flat tire may only need a spare put on, and running out of fuel only needs a top-up. Our roadside assistance service covers boosts, tire changes, lockouts and fuel delivery across Calgary.

What to Tell Dispatch

• Your exact location: the road, direction of travel, and nearest exit or cross street.
• Which warning light came on and what the car did: stalled, overheated, smoking or lost power.
• Your vehicle's year, make and model, and whether it is AWD or 4x4.
• Where you'd like it towed: your home, a dealership or a repair shop.

Call Dave’s Towing, 24/7

If a warning light has you worried, don't risk it. Dave’s Towing is open 24/7 across Calgary and the surrounding area. Call 403-272-3944 and we'll get your vehicle safely to the shop of your choice. You can also reach us through our contact page.