When your car stops cooperating, the first question is often, "Do I need a tow, or can someone fix this here?" The answer affects how quickly you get back on the road, what kind of truck we send, and what it costs. Our dispatchers ask a few questions on every call to figure this out, but it helps to understand the logic yourself. This guide walks through common symptoms and what they usually mean. It is written for drivers in Oak Creek, Franklin, Greenfield, Cudahy, and the rest of our service area, but the advice applies anywhere.

The basic difference

Roadside assistance fixes a problem where the car is, so you can drive away: a jump start, a tire change with your spare, a lockout, fuel delivery, or a winch-out from snow or a ditch. Towing moves the car to a shop, your home, or another destination because it cannot be driven safely. Lake Front Towing does both, so if a roadside fix does not work, the technician can switch to a tow during the same visit.

Symptom: the car will not start

Rapid clicking, dim dash lights: almost always a weak or dead battery. A jump start usually solves it on the spot.

No lights, no sound at all: a fully drained battery or a loose or corroded battery cable. A jump often works; if not, a tow is next.

A single loud click, then nothing: often a failing starter. A jump may not help, and a tow to a mechanic is likely.

Engine cranks normally but will not fire: possibly fuel, ignition, or a sensor. If you might be out of gas, fuel delivery is the answer. Otherwise, a tow.

Symptom: the car died while driving

If the engine stopped and the fuel gauge reads empty, fuel delivery is the simplest fix. If the battery light came on before the car lost power, the alternator may have failed; a jump might get you a short distance, but a tow is usually smarter. If the engine overheated, with steam, a sweet smell, or a temperature gauge in the red, do not restart it — that can warp the engine. Call for a tow.

Symptom: a flat tire

A single flat with a good spare is a classic roadside job. Our technician installs the spare and stows the flat. A tow is the better choice if:

  • You have no spare, or the spare is flat.
  • More than one tire is damaged.
  • The rim is bent or the car feels unstable after a pothole hit.
  • The car has run-flat tires and has already gone beyond the recommended distance.

Symptom: smoke, smells, and leaks

Any smoke from under the hood, a burning smell, or a puddle of fluid under the engine is a sign to stop driving. White, sweet-smelling steam suggests a coolant leak. Blue smoke suggests burning oil. A burning-rubber smell can mean a slipping belt or a brake problem. These are tow situations; trying to drive farther can turn a repair into a replacement. If you see flames, get everyone away from the car and call 911.

Symptom: warning lights

A steady check-engine light alone usually means you can drive carefully to a shop. A flashing check-engine light means a serious misfire that can damage the catalytic converter — pull over and call. Red lights for oil pressure, temperature, or brakes mean stop as soon as it is safe. When in doubt, describe the light to our dispatcher; a photo of the dashboard helps the shop later.

Symptom: stuck, but not broken

If the car runs fine but is stuck in snow, mud, or a shallow ditch, a winch-out is the right call. The operator pulls the car back onto solid ground and checks it. If nothing is damaged, you drive away. If something underneath was hit — a rock, a stump, a curb — the operator may recommend a tow instead.

Symptom: after a collision

Even a minor crash can damage lights, cooling systems, steering, or suspension. If the car leaks fluids, the wheels look misaligned, lights are broken, or the airbags deployed, it should be towed. Our accident recovery team handles collisions and coordinates with insurance providers.

Symptom: you are locked out or out of reach of your keys

Keys locked inside the car are a pure roadside job; our technician opens the door without damage and you drive away. Keys that are lost entirely are different. Most modern keys contain a programmed chip, so even with the door open, the car will not start without a key that matches. In that case, a tow to a dealer or an automotive locksmith is usually the fastest path. A key fob with a dead battery falls in between: many fobs contain a hidden mechanical key, and many cars let you start the engine by holding the fob against a marked spot on the steering column or console. Check your owner's manual before you call.

How to describe the problem on the phone

When you call (414) 520-7264, try to answer these questions: What happened right before the problem? What do you see, hear, or smell? Which warning lights are on? Is the car in a safe spot? Do you have a spare tire? Where should the car go if it needs a tow? The more we know, the more likely we send the right help the first time.

Frequently asked questions

What if I pick the wrong service?

You do not have to pick — just describe the problem. And if a roadside fix does not work, the technician can tow the car without you calling again.

Is roadside assistance cheaper than a tow?

Generally, yes, but it depends on the situation. The dispatcher will quote a price before sending help.

Do you work with my insurance?

We work with most insurance providers. Ask the dispatcher about your coverage.

Not sure what you need? Call (414) 520-7264 and talk it through with a dispatcher. Explore our roadside assistance and emergency towing services.