car broken down

Car Broken Down? Here’s What to Do Next

/in , , , , , , , , , /by

Is Your Car Broken Down?

If your car broke down and you’re looking for a way to get back on the road fast, don’t panic. The first thing you need to do is figure out why your car isn’t drivable, then get help.

First, get your car off the road as fast as possible. If you’re going to be late for work or another important appointment, remember to call ahead and let people know that you’re running late.

Don’t be too down on yourself. It happens to everybody at least a few times over the course of their driving lifetime! So what’s next? Here’s a quick guide to what to do when your car breaks down, and how to get emergency roadside assistance in a jiffy.

What to Do if You Get a Flat Tire

We’ve all heard it at least once. The dreaded POP, followed by a loud flapping sound as your tire falls apart. You may want to scream, “My car broke down! HELP!” But that won’t accomplish much more than spiking your blood pressure.

If you’re lucky, you’ve prepared for getting a flat tire ahead of time. You have a spare “donut” tire in the trunk, a tire-changing jack, and a 4-way lug wrench to get the bolts off the flat tire.

You’ll need to use the jack to prop up the car, then remove the bolts and switch out your bad tire with the donut. This can be a greasy process, so unless you’re okay with having wheel grease and oil on your hands, use a pair of disposable gloves to protect your hands.

Your donut tire will get you to the nearest garage or tire store. It’s best not to drive long distances on it if you can.

If you’re NOT lucky and you don’t have a spare tire or the right tools, you’ll need to call a roadside assistance company to help get you back on the road.

What to Do if Your Battery Dies

Batteries can drain in weather extremes and for lots of other reasons. If you find that your battery dies often, you may want to invest in a jump starter and keep it in your trunk.

You’ll discover a dead battery usually after your car’s parked for a while. So be aware of your surroundings until you can get a jumpstart or get roadside assistance to replace your battery. If you don’t feel safe, get inside a safe building and call for help from there.

Most roadside assistance companies offer car battery service. They can bring a new battery to you or jumpstart your car where it broke down.

Top Causes of Car Breakdowns

What are the top causes of car breakdowns? Besides batteries and tires, reasons for car breakdowns include failing starters, transmissions, clutches, or any other mechanical problem. But maybe it’s something simple like, you lost your keys or locked them in the car.

If Your Car Broke Down and It’s a True Roadside Emergency

If your car broke down, you may need a jump start, battery replacement, or a tow. That’s why we’re here to help. We can bring a new battery or a can of gas to wherever you are and get you back on the road in no time.

So check out our reviews, give us a call, and our dispatchers will send help as soon as possible!

Low on gas

Why You Shouldn’t Drive When You’re Low On Gas

/in , , , , , , , , /by

Many people have driven around with a low amount of gas in their cars. Whether this is an accident or because they think they can make it to a gas station before running out, it is a common occurrence.

While this is common, it is something you should avoid doing. Driving while low on gas can lead to issues with your car that will cost you in the long run.

Read on to learn about the reasons why you should not attempt driving on empty.

1. Immense Damage

If you are driving while low on gas, you will eventually break down.

Breaking down is not only a stressful experience, but it can cause damage to your car as well. For example, your exhaust system can be damaged due to your car stalling out. The specific part in this system that will experience the damage is the catalytic converter

The electric fuel-pump motor in your car can also experience damage due to driving low on gas. This can happen because the fuel pump will suck in air, creating unwanted heat.

These kinds of damages can be costly, so driving with a filled gas tank will prevent you from having to spend money on avoidable damage.

2. Expensive Gas Prices

Along with costly repairs, you will end up paying more money when you fill your car up with gas.

You eventually will begin to panic and pull into the nearest gas station. This gas station may be more expensive than others, but because you had no choice but to go there, you end up spending more money.

Pulling over to get gas before reaching an empty gas tank will prevent you from panicking, as well as save you money.

3. Dangers and Stress of Being Stranded

One thing people may not think about until it is too late is what they will do if they are stranded after breaking down. While you are waiting for fuel delivery to reach you, you may become very stressed out.

This can be dangerous if you break down in a high-traffic area. It may be difficult to not panic, especially if cars are passing you by at a very fast speed. This can lead to an accident if you break down in a spot where you are at risk of getting hit.

Avoid ending up in this situation by getting gas when you reach a quarter tank of gas.

Driving Low on Gas: Emergency Fuel Service

If you are stuck in a situation where you need emergency fuel delivered to you, you may wonder who you should call.

Duggar’s Road Service offers fuel delivery if you are ever in need of emergency fuel. We are dedicated to offering you exceptional service and are a reputable roadside service company. Here are some of our reviews.

If you fear that we may not be able to get to you due to the time of day, do not worry! Duggar’s has 24/7 emergency services available, including fuel delivery.

Contact us if you need fuel delivery or any of our other roadside services.

This Is Why Your Car May Smell Like Gas

This Is Why Your Car May Smell Like Gas

/in , , /by

Some car issues can be ignored for a while, but a gas smell in the cabin is not one of them. You should make an appointment at a repair shop immediately if your car smells like gas. A gas leak could cause your car to catch on fire.

Don’t panic just yet though. While sometimes gas odors can result from scary and expensive car problems, the smell might also be an easy fix. Here are four answers to the question “why does my car smell like gas,” ranked from least to most concerning.

Damaged or Open Gas Cap

First, the bad news. The gas cap prevents fuel vapor from escaping your gas tank, so if it’s broken or not closed, gas fumes will leak out of your car. Not only does this smell bad, but it leads to gas you paid for evaporating instead of powering your engine.

The good news is that replacing a gas cap is both easy and cheap. Unless you drive a luxury car, a new gas cap shouldn’t cost more than $20, and you can do the repair yourself instead of taking it to a mechanic.

Spark Plug Issues

Spark plugs ignite the fuel inside your car’s engine. They screw into a hole that can potentially release the air-fuel mixture in the cylinder. If you have a spark plug that’s damaged or improperly installed, it may let gas fumes leak into your HVAC system.

Faulty spark plugs will also make your car less fuel-efficient. If you have basic car repair knowledge, you can replace your own spark plugs. The plugs themselves are relatively cheap as well.

Broken EVAP System/Charcoal Canister

Your car’s EVAP system directs some engine fumes to a charcoal-filled tank for extra filtration before they are released. This reduces the levels of harmful chemicals in your car’s exhaust.

The EVAP system could make your car smell like gas in two ways: the charcoal canister could be cracked, or the valve that controls fume release could be broken.

Gas Leaks in Tank or Fuel Lines

A gas leak is the most dangerous possible reason your car smells like gas. If the fuel leaking out of your car finds an ignition source, your vehicle could go up in flames.

The fuel lines carry gas from the tank to your engine. They are visible underneath the car, and if you’re handy you can patch them yourself.

A leaky fuel tank is a much bigger problem. If you catch the leak early, a mechanic will be able to patch it, but a big hole will necessitate a new fuel tank. That could run you upwards of $1000.

Car Smells Like Gas? Turn to the Pros

If your car smells like gas it could mean big trouble. You might be able to fix it yourself, but it’s always a good idea to seek professional help.

In a perfect world, you would take care of any car issues before something bad happened on the road. The world isn’t perfect, so if you need roadside assistance, Dugger Services is here to help. Whether you need a tire change, new battery, or fuel delivery, they can come to you to get you back on the road.

Change a tire - use a spare

How To Safely Change a Tire on the Side of the Road

/in , , , , /by

Do you know how to safely and properly change a tire? If not, you aren’t alone. – and there’s nothing to be embarrassed about.

But, with millions of flats reported each year in the US alone, it’s only a matter of time before you experience a blowout yourself!

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to safely change a tire on the roadside and help you decide when it’s time to call for help. Keep reading for all the info.

How to Change a Tire Step by Step

Before we start our steps, consider this: According to the NHTSA, buying the right tires and maintaining them properly is the best way to avoid a flat in the first place. Follow their easy guide to see where your current set of wheels stands!

Pull Over Safely

Before you consider replacing a flat tire, you need to exit traffic safely. Start by finding a straight section of road with a stable place to pull off. And, be sure to use your hazard lights and parking brake once you’ve stopped.

Take a moment to visually inspect your flat tire and any damage that it may have caused. And, call for roadside assistance if you don’t feel comfortable attempting a repair or tire change.

Assemble Your Tools

Do you have everything you need to change a tire? You’ll want to assemble all of your tools before beginning. A jack, wrench, and a spare tire are essential – but the following might make your job easier:

  • Gloves
  • Flashlight
  • Mat for kneeling
  • Tire gauge
  • Vehicle owner’s manual

If you have everything you need, it’s time to set the jack and get ready for your roadside tire change.

Tire change serviceLoosen and Lift

Once your jack is in place, you’ll want to gently loosen each lug nut with your wrench or tire iron. But, if your car has hubcaps, you might need to pop them off first.

If all of your lug nuts came loose, you can now begin to lift the vehicle using the jack. Follow your vehicle’s owner’s manual for instructions on where to place this and how to lift your car safely.

Once your vehicle’s tire is lifted a few inches off the ground, double-check that the jack is still firmly planted, and get ready to change your flat tire!

Remove and Replace

To change a flat, remove each lug nut and set it aside. Then, slide your tire off and replace it with a spare. Next, replace the lug nuts and tighten them gently.

Attempting to fully tighten your lug nuts now may knock your car off the jack, potentially damaging the vehicle or causing injury. Do not attempt this!

Lower and Tighten

Now, lower your vehicle fully and remove the jack. Tighten each lug nut completely using your tire iron. And replace your hubcaps. That’s it – you’re all done changing a tire!

Fix a Flat

Now that you know how to safely change a tire, it’s time to double-check a few things around your vehicle. After all, this knowledge is useless without a spare and the tools required to install it.

Armed with the essentials and this guide, you’ll never be caught unprepared.

But, should the worst happen, you’ll want contact information for a reliable mechanic close at hand. Contact Dugger’s or call (877)823-9696 for fast and professional help when you need it most!

Flat tire - Can you put on a spare?

How To Safely Drive on a Spare Tire

/in , , , , , /by

Spare Tire

Did you know that 60% of people claim that they can’t change a flat tire? Like it or not, we’re all bound to have that unlucky day when we have to switch out a flat for a spare.  Whether you belong inside or outside that sixty percent margin, it’s safe to say a good share of people aren’t quite familiar with the ins and outs of what to do after they throw on their spare tire. Your spare tire can’t necessarily be treated like the tire it replaced, and there are some important precautions to keep in mind when driving on one. Should you find yourself having to continue driving with your spare tire, this short guide will explain how you can drive to best accommodate it.

Driving On A Spare Tire

Firstly, if you have any difficulty or uncertainty with the process of changing your tire or handling your spare, do not hesitate to simply consult a reliable roadside assistance service company. If you’re not completely confident with the process, it’s best that you don’t take the risk.

However, if you’ve changed your tire and are ready to go, here are some things you should keep in mind when driving on spare tires.

By its very design, most spare tires are slimmer, more compact and primarily designed to fit in your vehicle’s trunk. It also has very little tread compared to a standard tire. It’s made with long-term storage in mind, which means short-term driving. If you can, you should limit your distance to no more than seventy miles and your speed to no more than fifty miles per hour while your spare is attached. The size difference between the spare and your other tires requires varying power from your car’s transmission. This can potentially cause further car trouble or even breakdowns if you drive longer or faster than you should.

With this in mind, you should also be aware of additional complications posed by this disparity in wheel sizes. Do not use cruise control, be especially cautious on wet or icy surfaces, and take turns very slowly. Also, you truly never know when your spare tire might be needed, so it’s important to stay prepared before any problem actually occurs. Always make sure your spare is inflated to a pressure of 60 psi (pounds per square inch) or the recommended PSI on the tire. After all, it won’t do you any good to change out one flat for another!

Don’t Be Afraid To Ask For Help

Again, for any number of reasons, you might not be prepared or fully confident with the process of what to do after getting a flat tire. That’s completely okay, and you’re certainly not alone! It’s a troubling situation altogether, and we’re here to help. Whether you need a spare tire, your car towed, or your battery jump-started, Dugger’s Road Service is here to help. All it takes is one quick call, and we’ll be out to you in no time.

Are you having any roadside trouble? Give us a call today! 1-877-823-9696

how long can you drive on a spare tire

How Long Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?

/in , , , , , , , /by

Every motorist’s worst nightmare is suddenly being stuck with a flat tire while mid-journey. Although it can be extremely irritating, replacing a flat tire immediately is of critical importance. Driving with a flat tire can cause a huge number of problems, ranging from car engine issues to catastrophic road accidents.

That is why quick and effective flat tire replacement should always be your first course of action. Of course, to do this, you will need to use the spare tire in the back of your car. But how long can you drive on a spare tire? Is a spare tire a quick and temporary fix or a long-term replacement? Read on to find out everything you need to know about when to drive on a spare and for how long.

1. Different Types of Tire

Regardless of the flat tire causes, you will need to replace the tire immediately. However, different cars will have different types of flat tires. The type of tire you have in the back will determine how long you can drive on it and how quickly you should head to the nearest tire shop or call a tire replacement specialist. Here are the main types of tire you are likely to have in your car:

  • A space-saving ‘donut’ tire: This is one of the most common spare tires. It is smaller than your main tires and is designed to be easily stored and clapped onto your car.
  • A full-size spare: This is a spare tire that is a brand-new, exact replica of your existing permanent tires.
  • A run-flat spare: A run-flat spare is a tire that can maintain its pressure for a certain period after a puncture and is a temporary fix.

Your spare tire should be easy to identify and should be labeled accordingly.

2. How Long Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?

Next comes the question of driving on a spare. Depending on the tire you have, you will be able to drive longer distances before heading to the repair shop. Here is what you need to know:

  • A space-saving tire: These are temporary fixes that should only be used to drive straight to the repair shop. It is recommended to not drive more than 70 miles on a space-saving tire and to not exceed speeds of 50mph.
  • A full-size spare: A full-size spare can theoretically be driven for as long as possible, as it has all of the functionality of a new tire. However, it will not have the same tread and wear as your other three tires, as it is brand new.
  • A run-flat spare: This is a tire that is specifically designed to keep you going until you can get a proper repair and replacement. It will be accompanied by a dashboard tracker that tells you how much pressure is left. The absolute maximum distance you should drive on a run-flat tire is 70 miles.

Instant Flat Tire Help Today

Now that you know how can you drive on a spare tire, it is time to get a permanent fix. No matter where your tire breaks down in Arizona or New Mexico, you can call us to get a quick and affordable replacement.

Mobile Car Battery Replacement

5 Easy Benefits of Mobile Car Battery Replacement

/in , , , , , , , , /by

Mobile Car Battery Replacement

Did you know that the average car battery lasts just four years? If your battery dies or isn’t holding its charge properly, you’re either going to need a jump start or a battery replacement. If your car won’t start, how are you supposed to drive to the repair shop? That’s where mobile car battery replacement can help. Read on to learn some of the key benefits of mobile battery replacement.

1. You Don’t Have to Drive

As we’ve already discussed, one of the key benefits is that even if your car won’t start, you can still get your battery replaced.

Even if you have enough charge to get the car running, it’s not a good idea to drive with a defective battery. You may find it dies en route to the repair shop, or it may cause further damage to the battery. Your battery also powers the electrical safety features in your car, so you’re putting yourself at risk by driving with a defective battery.

2. They Can Come to Your Work

Even if your battery fails when you’re not at home, it’s not a problem. Mobile means mobile, so a mobile car battery replacement technician can come to you no matter where you are, whether you’re at home, at work, or stranded on the side of the road.

3. Fits Around Your Schedule

Because a mobile car battery replacement technician can visit you wherever you are, it means it’s much easier to fit your battery replacement around your schedule. Instead of having to take time off work to drive to the repair shop, you can carry on working or getting on with your day, knowing that the battery replacement technician will come to you.

4. You Can Be Present When the Work Is Done

If you drop your car at the repair shop, you might sit in the waiting room, or head off somewhere else and return when the work is done. With a mobile battery replacement, you have the option to stay whilst the work is done so that you can find out first-hand what the problem is and what the best course of action is. It also gives you peace of mind that the work is being done correctly.

5. Saves You Money

A repair shop has a lot of overheads, not least of which is the premises themselves. A mobile battery repair company doesn’t have the same overheads, and they can pass some of those savings on to you. That means your battery replacement could work out cheaper than going to a repair shop.

Are You Looking for Mobile Car Battery Replacement?

If you’re in need of mobile car battery replacement services, then we’re to help. Whether you need a jump start or a battery replaced, we can send a qualified battery technician to your location who can assess your battery and either offer a jump-start or replace your battery. We also offer fuel delivery, flat tire services, windshield chip services, and more.

Check out our reviews and contact us today.

Battery installed near the V8 motor in SUV

Car Battery Died? Here’s What To Do Next

/in , , , , , /by

There are few things more frustrating than getting stranded on the side of the road because your car battery died. It can also be a bit frightening depending on where you are and what time of day it is. If this happens to you, we’ve got you covered.

Car battery issues and getting stranded somewhere can cause anxiety. It is good to know that help is available whenever you need it, day or night. Keep reading to find out what you should do if this happens to you.

What to Do If Your Car Battery Died

If you get stranded and your car won’t start, you can get a battery delivered right to you. You no longer have to get stuck, with no way of getting home or to a safe location. With the use of your cell phone, you can have a new battery installed in no time.

Use jumper cables or call a friend who has some. Make sure you know how to jump-start your car. Sometimes there may not be another car nearby and some car battery issues are so bad that you must get a new one.

You could use an emergency car battery but that does not always work. Some people have their cars towed to a mechanic but you would have to pay towing fees and could leave your car all day.

Call a company that will come to you with a jumpstart service. They can get you back on the road soon.

Other Steps to Take

Try to stay with or close to your vehicle. Some people see a car on the side of the road as a target to look through and see if they can find something worth taking.

Make sure your car is not in the way of traffic. If so, put the car in neutral and move it to a safe location.

If you get your battery jump-started, you may want to go get a new battery installed. Your car will have enough life to get you there but your car battery dying is a sign you need a new one.

Phone a friend or family member to make sure someone knows where you are. This is especially important if you are in a location that does not seem secure or is not very populated.

If you are by the road at night, make sure your flashers are on to let drivers know to be cautious when passing by. Remain inside your vehicle and out of the way of oncoming traffic.

Be Prepared

No one wants to have car trouble, especially at inconvenient times. Unfortunately, life happens. Being prepared for the worst-case scenario will help you know what to do.

Have your cell phone charged so you can make calls when needed. Keep a good pair of jumper cables in the trunk.

If your car battery died, there are steps to take that will get you back on the road soon. Luckily, car battery issues are common and easy to replace. If you get stranded and your car won’t start, contact us for emergency road service.

how long does it take to change a flat tire

How Long Does It Take to Change a Flat Tire?

/in , , , /by

Do you know how to change a flat tire?

During a pitstop, a NASCAR pit crew can replace all 4 tires and fill the gas tank of a car in under 15 seconds.

Of course, they use highly specialized tools and experienced personnel in order to perform those tasks so quickly. For the average person using everyday tools, changing a flat tire takes a bit longer.

But exactly how long does it take to change a flat tire?

The answer depends on a number of variables. We’ll tell you what those are and give you an estimate in this quick guide to changing a tire.

How Long Does It Take to Change a Flat Tire by Yourself?

How long it takes to change a flat tire depends on the type of car you drive. It also varies depending on where you’re trying to change it and conditions such as weather.

Generally speaking, though, changing a tire is relatively straightforward. If you’re a handy person and you can use the most common car repair tools, you’ll be able to complete the task by yourself.

It shouldn’t take any longer than 15 to 30 minutes. But if you need new tires, you might have to change all four, which will take longer.

How Long Does It Take a Professional to Change a Flat Tire?

What type of car you drive is also a variable in the length of time it takes a professional mechanic or tire center to change your tire. Their process also impacts the length of time but, more influential is how busy the service center is.

While a professional mechanic can likely change your tire faster than you can by yourself, they’re limited by how many other cars they’re working on. The amount of time it takes a professional to change a flat tire therefore varies greatly.

Benefits of Going to a Professional vs Changing the Tire Yourself

Changing a flat tire yourself means saving the money otherwise spent at a service center or mechanic. It also means you can do it on your own time and save what time it would take to drive to have the service done and wait for it to be completed.

But if you’re not experienced, having your tire changed by a professional might actually be faster. Plus, a professional has more insight into the mechanics of your vehicle and can check everything from air pressure and rotation to tread-wear and pinholes.

Tire safety is extremely critical. Besides the damage you’ll cause by driving on a flat tire, in 2016 alone, over 700 motor vehicle deaths were related to a tire malfunction.

Get a Professional Tire Change 

So, how long does it take to change a flat tire? That depends on the make of your vehicle and whether you change it by yourself or with a professional.

A fairly straightforward task, changing a tire yourself is absolutely do-able. But considering how important tire safety is, it might be in your best interest to call the professionals if you’re inexperienced or simply can’t find the time. Find out more about our flat tire service here.

chipped windshield repair

Windshield Repair: Should You Fix a Chipped Windshield?

/in , , /by

Chipped Windshield?

When you’re driving on the open road, you’re probably aware of what could go wrong. A flat tire might leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere or you might run out of gas with the nearest gas station miles away.

These are the dangers most people prepare for. But have you ever considered the danger of driving with a chipped windshield?

Read on to find out why it’s so important to fix a chip in your windshield before it becomes a bigger problem.

Why Should They Be Fixed Immediately?

Chipped windshields are fairly common, especially on longer car trips. Chips are most often caused by debris from other vehicles or roadworks hitting your windshield at high speed. Unfortunately, there’s no way to avoid them.

A chipped windshield may not seem like a big deal. In fact, you may not even notice little cracks and chips at first. So why is it important to fix them?

From Chips to Cracks

Even if the chip on your windscreen is small enough not to bother you, pressure on your windscreen will eventually turn that tiny chip into a massive crack. Pressure can come from anything, including wind and changing temperature.

Cracks weaken the structural integrity of your vehicle and can lead to your windshield shattering or causing an accident.

Keep Your Vision Crystal Clear

A badly-placed chip or crack can obscure your vision while driving. This is particularly dangerous if a sudden change in pressure quickly lengthens the crack in your windshield mid-journey or the chip reflects sun into your eyes.

Safety isn’t just about seatbelts and speed. Make sure you keep yourself and passengers safe by keeping your windshield free from chips and cracks.

Save in the Long Run

Because chips can so easily lead to cracks and shattered glass, you’re going to want to fix them before you have to replace your windscreen entirely. Save yourself the time and the hundreds of dollars it takes to replace an entire windshield by repairing chips as soon as you see them.

Chips are usually much easier and cheaper to repair. You can even have them fixed on the move!

Avoid Penalties

When it comes to chipped and cracked windshields, laws vary according to different states. However, federal law dictates that any cracks and chips that obstruct the driver’s vision, or are larger than three inches by three inches could lead to penalties.

Now you might think because your chip is small or on the passenger’s side, you’re in the clear. But remember, chips can easily turn into larger cracks under pressure. So it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Chipped Windshield? No Problem

Chips and cracks can lead to more serious damage to your vehicle and can turn into a safety hazard if ignored. That’s why it’s important to repair your chipped windshield as soon as you notice it. Contact us to book a roadside service or for more information on how we can make your car trip safer and smoother.

Windshield Chip Repair Service

Emergency Road Services