How to Handle Car Engine Failure

Stay Calm

The first thing you need to do is stay calm. It can be scary to have your car engine fail, but panicking will only make things worse. Take a deep breath and focus on what you need to do.

Pull Over

If you can, pull over to the side of the road. This will help to keep you and your passengers safe, and it will give you a chance to assess the situation.

Turn on Your Hazard Lights

Once you are pulled over, turn on your hazard lights. This will let other drivers know that you are having a problem and that they should be cautious.

Call for Help

If you are unable to pull over, or if you do not know what to do, call for help. You can call 911 or roadside assistance.

Stay in Your Car

If you are waiting for help, stay in your car. This will help to keep you safe from traffic.

Do Not Restart Your Engine

Once your car engine has failed, do not try to restart it. This could cause further damage.

Check for Leaks

If you are able to, check for any leaks. This could be a sign of a serious problem.

Look for Smoke

If you see any smoke coming from your car, this could be a sign of a fire. Get out of your car immediately and call 911.

Be Prepared to Tow Your Car

In most cases, you will need to have your car towed. Be prepared to pay for this service.

Here are some additional tips for handling car engine failure:

If you have a mechanical background, you may be able to diagnose and fix the problem yourself. However, it is always best to err on the side of caution and call for help.
If you are traveling in a remote area, be prepared to wait for help. It may take some time for a tow truck to reach you.
Keep a flashlight and a first-aid kit in your car in case of emergencies.