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Unlocking Excellence: The Vital Role of Vehicle Unlocking Services in Towing Companies

In the fast-paced world of roadside assistance, vehicle unlocking services stand out as a crucial component of comprehensive support. For towing companies, offering reliable and efficient vehicle unlocking services can make a significant difference in customer satisfaction and operational success. This blog delves into the importance of vehicle unlocking services, the benefits they bring to both the towing company and the customer, and how these services enhance the overall roadside assistance experience.

The Need for Vehicle Unlocking Services

Locked out of a vehicle is a common yet frustrating experience for drivers. Whether due to misplaced keys, malfunctioning locks, or accidental lock-ins, such situations can disrupt daily schedules and cause considerable stress. This is where professional vehicle unlocking services come into play. These services provide swift solutions, enabling drivers to regain access to their vehicles without causing damage.

For towing companies, incorporating vehicle unlocking services is not just an added convenience; it’s a necessity. The ability to unlock vehicles efficiently and safely enhances the company’s reputation for being a one-stop solution for roadside emergencies. This service complements towing operations by addressing a frequent problem that drivers face, thereby increasing the overall value proposition of the company.

Enhancing Customer Satisfaction

Customer satisfaction is the cornerstone of any successful service-based business. In the context of towing companies, providing timely and effective vehicle unlocking services can significantly boost customer satisfaction. Here’s how:

1. Rapid Response Time: When customers find themselves locked out of their vehicles, they need assistance fast. Towing companies equipped with vehicle unlocking services can respond quickly, minimizing wait times and reducing customer anxiety. A prompt response not only resolves the issue swiftly but also leaves a positive impression on the customer.
2. Professional Expertise: Professional unlocking services employ skilled technicians who are trained to handle a variety of lockout scenarios. Their expertise ensures that vehicles are unlocked without causing any damage to the lock or the vehicle itself. This level of professionalism builds trust and confidence among customers.
3. 24/7 Availability: Vehicle lockouts can happen at any time, day or night. Offering round-the-clock unlocking services ensures that customers have access to assistance whenever they need it. This 24/7 availability is a key differentiator that enhances customer loyalty and positions the towing company as a reliable partner in emergencies.

Unlocking Convenience: The Benefits of Vehicle Unlocking Services for Customers

For many drivers, being locked out of their vehicle is more than just an inconvenience; it can be a source of stress and frustration. Vehicle unlocking services offered by towing companies provide a critical solution to this common problem. Here, we explore the numerous benefits for customers who need vehicle unlocking services and highlight scenarios where these services can be a lifesaver.

The Benefits of Vehicle Unlocking Services

1. Immediate Assistance
   • Rapid Response: One of the primary benefits of vehicle unlocking services is the quick response time. When you’re locked out of your car, every minute counts. Professional towing companies understand this urgency and are equipped to respond promptly, ensuring you’re back on the road as quickly as possible.
   • 24/7 Availability: Lockouts don’t adhere to a schedule; they can happen anytime, anywhere. Towing companies offering round-the-clock vehicle unlocking services ensure that help is always just a phone call away, whether it’s in the middle of the night or during a busy holiday.
2. Professional Expertise
   • Damage-Free Unlocking: DIY attempts to unlock a vehicle can often result in damage to the car’s locking mechanism, windows, or paint. Professional technicians are trained in non-invasive unlocking techniques, using specialized tools that unlock vehicles safely and efficiently without causing harm.
   • Skilled Technicians: These services employ highly skilled technicians who have extensive experience with various makes and models of vehicles. This expertise ensures that even the most sophisticated locking systems can be tackled with ease.
3. Peace of Mind
   • Reliable Solutions: Knowing that a reliable solution is available provides peace of mind. Whether you’re in an unfamiliar part of town or stranded late at night, having access to a trusted unlocking service alleviates anxiety and provides assurance.
   • Insurance Compliance: Many vehicle insurance policies require that only certified professionals perform certain types of vehicle services to maintain coverage. Using a professional unlocking service ensures compliance with insurance requirements, avoiding potential issues with claims.
4. Convenience
   • Mobile Services: Vehicle unlocking services come to you, whether you’re at home, work, or stranded on the roadside. This mobile convenience means you don’t have to tow your vehicle to a different location just to regain access.
   • Time-Saving: Instead of wasting hours trying to unlock your car yourself or waiting for a less specialized service, professional vehicle unlocking services save you valuable time.

Scenarios Where Vehicle Unlocking Services Are Invaluable

1. Forgotten Keys Inside the Vehicle
   • Scenario: You’ve just finished grocery shopping and, as you’re loading the bags into the trunk, you realize you’ve left your keys on the driver’s seat and locked the doors.
   • Benefit: A quick call to a vehicle unlocking service will have a technician on-site swiftly, allowing you to retrieve your keys and continue with your day with minimal disruption.
2. Lost or Misplaced Keys
   • Scenario: After a long day at work, you can’t find your car keys anywhere. You’ve checked your office, your bag, and your pockets multiple times without success.
   • Benefit: A vehicle unlocking service can get you back into your car so you can access any spare keys or call for further assistance, avoiding the need for expensive key replacement services immediately.
3. Key Malfunction
   • Scenario: Your key fob battery dies, or the car’s lock mechanism malfunctions, leaving you unable to unlock your vehicle.
   • Benefit: Professional unlocking technicians have the tools and knowledge to bypass electronic lock issues, ensuring you can get into your car even when technology fails.
4. Inclement Weather Lockouts
   • Scenario: On a freezing winter morning, you start your car to warm it up, step out to scrape the ice off the windows, and the auto-lock engages with the keys still inside.
   • Benefit: In extreme weather conditions, getting locked out can be dangerous. Vehicle unlocking services provide rapid response times, ensuring you’re not left out in the cold for long.
5. Children or Pets Locked Inside
   • Scenario: In a moment of distraction, you accidentally lock your child or pet inside the car.
   • Benefit: This is one of the most critical situations where immediate unlocking is necessary. Professional unlocking services prioritize such emergencies, ensuring the safety of your loved ones quickly and efficiently.

Conclusion

Vehicle unlocking services provided by towing companies offer indispensable benefits to customers facing lockout situations. From rapid response times and professional expertise to the peace of mind and convenience they bring, these services transform stressful scenarios into manageable inconveniences. Whether you’ve forgotten your keys inside, lost them entirely, or are dealing with a malfunction, knowing that reliable help is available 24/7 makes all the difference.

The next time you find yourself locked out of your vehicle, remember that professional unlocking services are there to ensure you’re back on the road swiftly and safely. Embrace the convenience and reliability of vehicle unlocking services and experience the reassurance of always having a solution at hand.

Our team is happy to provide customers with vehicle unlocking service in Festus, MO. Call us now for immediate assistance!

When Do You Need Heavy-Duty Towing Service?

When a passenger car or a regular-size pickup breaks down, someone can sometimes push them out of the way. You can also pull them using a tow chain or tow rope if you have this kind of device handy – however, we don’t recommend this. More people have used this method than you may realize, but again, as experts in towing, we don’t recommend it, so keeping this in mind, when should you reach out for heavy-duty towing service in Festus, Missouri, or the surrounding area?

What is a heavy-duty towing service? 

You may be wondering how a heavy-duty towing service differs from a regular towing service. Tow trucks are classified as “heavy-duty” or “light-duty” based on how much weight they can safely tow. When it comes to large vehicles, you need heavy-duty towing service. Heavy-duty towing service is used for vehicles that weigh 8.5 tons or more than 17,000 pounds and need to be towed. 

• Light-Duty Towing Service

Light-duty towing service covers the most normal towing routines using standard-sized tow trucks weighing 8,5000 pounds and 10,000 pounds. At this weight, they can tow small-to-medium-sized vehicles, like in an accident or traffic collision. These are the towing services you would call if your car broke down on the side of the road. 

A light-duty towing truck has a cable system and a winch, or some have a dolly towing set up. Compared to heavy-duty towing services, these tow trucks aren’t as complex. 

• Heavy-Duty Towing Service

Heavy-duty towing service trucks weigh a minimum of 26,000 pounds. This size of towing truck is needed for construction equipment, dump trucks, garbage trucks, trailer trucks, and passenger buses. 

Professionals equip heavy-duty towing service trucks with 6-ton wheel lifts, 25-ton booms, and heavy-duty winches. The equipment on these trucks enables them to handle towing larger vehicles, and they have more horsepower in the engine and more torque in the transmission. 

Are tow truck drivers mechanics?

A light, medium, or heavy-duty towing service driver’s primary job is to tow a truck from Point A to Point B as instructed by dispatch. They may or may not be certified mechanics but will usually have some mechanical knowledge and skills. Their duties include the following: 

• Customer Service: Tow truck drivers are often at the forefront of towing companies, so providing excellent customer service is essential. They usually differ from those you speak to when you call for small, medium, or heavy-duty towing services. Still, you will work with them once they arrive to help tow your vehicle.
• Minor Repairs: A driver who provides light, medium, or heavy-duty towing services can troubleshoot to determine any repairs somebody may need. They can perform minor repairs for passenger cars and trucks, such as jump-starting the vehicle, bringing gas and putting it in the tank, changing a flat tire, unlocking doors to retrieve keys inside, etc. They must tow the vehicle to the nearest garage or another location the owner requests for other problems. 
• Towing: Car towing is the main task for any tow truck driver. They will load the car onto the towing truck, ensure it is secure, and deliver the vehicle as requested. 

Another thing to remember is that if a company employs a tow truck driver, they will tow only the company vehicles as requested. As we described earlier, this service could be for a light or medium-weight car or a heavy-duty towing service for larger vehicles. 

Why can’t any vehicle tow another vehicle, regardless of size? 

The weight of any vehicle that needs towing is essential in determining whether light, medium, or heavy-duty towing service is required. For example, a light-duty towing service truck isn’t good for towing long distances. Nor do you want to tow a city bus or garbage truck with a light-duty towing service.

On the other end of the spectrum, using a heavy-duty towing service to tow a passenger car would be overkill and insufficient. And more costly! Heavy-duty towing services are much more expensive than light or medium-weight towing services. Another factor to consider is if the right size of towing truck doesn’t tow your vehicle, it could be damaged. 

In Closing – Preparation Is Everything

If you find yourself in need of a light, medium, or heavy-duty towing service, here are some tips to follow in preparing your vehicle for the service:

• Remove important belongings and items. Towing companies will have statements on their trucks and paperwork that state they are not responsible for any damaged, lost, or stolen items.  
• Close all windows if possible for theft prevention and to protect the interior. 
• Disengage the emergency brake before the tow truck driver loads the vehicle. They will usually check this themselves. 
• Take pictures of the vehicle you are having towed before the driver loads it onto the tow truck. 
• Use a reputable light, medium, or heavy-duty towing service. While going the least expensive towing service may be tempting, you get what you pay for. Ask the driver if they and the towing truck are insured. 

Keeping these things in mind can help you get the appropriate assistance if you need heavy-duty towing service. Meanwhile, you can always contact us if you want help in Festus, Missouri. Just call to speak to our team. 

What should you do if you need to change your tires?

When driving in and around the Festus, Missouri area, or anywhere, you want to make sure the tires on your vehicle are safe, especially when traveling long distances. Unfortunately, no matter how many preventive measures you take, like checking the air pressure and tread on your tires, you may find yourself needing an unexpected tire change. 

Can you change your tires?

Absolutely – there isn’t any special degree or training that’s required when it comes to doing a tire change. However, it isn’t as easy and simple as you may expect, which is why many people turn to professionals when they find themselves in need of new tires on their cars.

What does a tire change require?

If you should experience a flat tire, pull your car to a safe place and confirm there is a spare that is aired up and ready, follow these steps for a proper tire change: 

• Engage the emergency brake.
• Gather the spare and tools needed for your tire change.
• Stabilize the car with wheel chocks or boards positioned behind the good tires.
• Remove the hubcap.
• Undo the lug nuts.
• Position the jack according to the owner’s manual instructions for the safest spot. This is typically under the car frame near where the tire change is needed.
• Lift the car with the jack-up six inches to maintain stability.
• Remove the wheel with the flat tire.
• Place the spare tire change on the wheel spokes and push it into place.
• Place the lug nuts in place and tighten them by hand.
• Let the car down slowly. 
• Remove the jack and wheel blocks.
• Finish lowering the car until the full weight of the car is on all 4 wheels.
• Replace the hub cap if it fits – if not, place it in the trunk with the flat tire.
• Check the air pressure in all four tires.

Any time you do an emergency tire change, it is important to make sure the tire is completely and firmly placed in position on the wheel and the lug nuts are installed. Once you have completed your tire change, drive directly to a mechanic shop to have the recent tire change inspected so that it is on securely, check that all 4 wheels are balanced, as well as make sure there is proper air pressure in all four tires. 

How much will a professional tire change cost?

This will vary between areas and mechanic shops or tire shops. A professional tire change could mean the mechanic checking the flat tire for leaks and making any repairs needed so that you’re not driving on the spare tire.  

Can you drive on the spare tire? 

In the past, the spare tire was the same size as the tires used for your car. However, with compact cars, this has changed and the spare tire, often referred to as “the donut,” isn’t designed to drive over 45 to 50 mph and is typically only used for a short time. This spare tire change is not meant as a permanent tire placement. 

Does the original tire need to be replaced with a new tire?

This is another reason to take your car to a mechanic or tire store, whether you do your tire change or you have a roadside service change the flat.  An experienced mechanic or tire technician can advise you if the tire needs to be replaced with a new tire. 

Will you need to replace all four tires? 

Again, your mechanic or tire technician will check the other three tires and advise if you need a full set of new tires. If the flat tire was due to a stand-alone issue, like running over a nail, and the tread is at the proper level on all four tires, you should have to have a complete 4-set tire change done. 

If, however, you do have to replace one tire change, if it is of a different brand, size, and type of tire, it would be in your best interest to change all four tires. A matching set of tires is important for the safety aspect and the longevity. 

Keep On Rolling 

When you experience a flat tire while driving, it is important to get the car off the roadway to a safe area. Turn on the emergency flashers and call for roadside assistance or begin the process for your tire change process.  Taking all the precautions to remain safe while waiting on service or doing the job yourself, should be your number one priority. 

If you notice a tire is slowly going flat, take the same precautions to get pulled over to a safe place. Do not drive the car with a slow leak or flat tire for any long distance. By driving on a tire in this condition, you’re putting yourself and your passengers at risk as well as causing extensive damage to the wheels, and possibly to other parts of the car. And remember, if you need a tire change in Festus, Missouri our team can be there to help.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Towing Service

When your car breaks down on the side of the road, panic may be your initial reaction, and understandably so. However, if you need a towing service in Festus, MO, have no fear because Pippin Towing & Recovery is near. We have been proudly serving our community for many years and look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

When looking for a local towing service, there are a few things you should look for in a company:

1. Reputation and Reviews: Look for a towing company with a good reputation and positive reviews from previous customers. Check online reviews and ratings to gauge their reliability and customer satisfaction.
2. Availability and Response Time: Choose a towing service that offers 24/7 availability and quick response times. Emergencies can happen at any time, so it’s essential to select a company that can assist you promptly.
3. Services Offered: Ensure the towing service offers the specific services you need, whether it’s roadside assistance, long-distance towing, or vehicle recovery. Some towing companies may specialize in certain types of towing, so make sure they can handle your situation.
4. Certifications and Licensing: Verify that the towing company is properly licensed, insured, and certified. This ensures they meet industry standards and have the necessary qualifications to tow your vehicle safely.
5. Transparent Pricing: Request a clear and detailed estimate upfront to avoid any surprises when it comes time to pay. A reputable towing service will provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
6. Equipment and Technology: Choose a towing company equipped with modern vehicles and towing equipment capable of handling your vehicle safely. Advanced technology and well-maintained equipment contribute to a smoother towing experience.
7. Customer Service: Evaluate the towing company’s customer service by reaching out with any questions or concerns you may have. A friendly and responsive customer service team can make the towing process less stressful.

By considering these factors, you can choose the right towing service that meets your needs and provides reliable assistance when you need it most.

Help is on the Way…Call __PHONE__ Today!

Emergencies can happen to anyone at any time, and knowing of a reliable, affordable, and reputable towing service near you is essential. In Festus, MO, 24/7 towing services are available through Pippin Towing & Recovery. Give us a call when you need us, and we’ll handle your emergency with the urgency it deserves. Call __PHONE__ now.

The Importance of Gas Service

It happens to the best of us, no matter how well-planned we live our lives. What are we talking about? Running out of gasoline in the car. It can be a sinking feeling to hear that sput…sput…sput and then the car dies. Maybe you were on your way to a gas service station and did have quite enough to make it. Or maybe the gas gauge doesn’t read correctly. 

Things are different today when it comes to gas service stations. There was a time, when if you ran out of gas, you could call or walk to the nearest station and they would fill a gas can up, bring it to your car, and get you on your way. They would check under the hood for the oil level, water level, and air filter. Today, gas service stations offer more than gas. They offer beverages and food, souvenirs, first aid stuff, and more. But the chance of them bringing gas to your car is rare. 

Fortunately, garages offer gas service and towing, at a cost. And we have auto clubs, third-party or through automobile insurance. They provide gas service, lock-out service, and jumper service. Again, at a cost either monthly or by the service.  If you find yourself needing gas service, do you know what type of fuel your car uses?  

Chances are your car uses unleaded fuel, most cars on the road do. But there is a chance your vehicle may use diesel fuel, common for pickups and heavy weigh vehicles. This information is available inside the gas door where you put gas in, there should be a label that clearly states the type of gas service required. 

Not as common these days, there are commercial vehicles that use natural gas or propane. The chances of a driver letting those vehicles run out are not likely.  And then, of course, there are solar-powered cars. The solar-powered cars can’t be filled with a gas service and sent on their way, they require being recharged.  

What are the different types of power available today for cars?

To recap the different sources of powering cars today, please review the following: 

• Biodiesel: A renewable fuel that is manufactured from animal fats, recycled cooking grease, or vegetable oils.

• Electricity: This method isn’t brand new, but is becoming relatively more common as we depend more on solar power. 

• Ethanol: Becoming a more widely used way to power cars and is blended with gasoline. 

• Hydrogen: This type of car fuel has the potential to be an emissions-free alternative and is used in fuel-cell vehicles.

• Natural Gas: This fuel is abundantly available and provides the user significant cost advantages over diesel and gasoline.

• Propane Propane is a readily available gaseous fuel that has been widely used in vehicles throughout the world for decades.

• Renewable Diesel: A biomass-derived fuel that is used in diesel engines.

• Emerging Fuels: The Energy Policy Act brings us several emerging alternative fuels that are still in development. 

How often should I get a gas service for my car? 

Just like your car needs routine inspection for the brakes, lights, and overall functioning, you should have gas service for your car annually or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. If you drive a larger vehicle, like a work truck, every 6 months or 6,000 miles is recommended, whichever comes first. 

What does a gas service consist of for a car? 

A detailed gas service isn’t needed as often as having the oil changed or the tires rotated, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t beneficial. Sediments build up in the gas tank just as they do in other areas of a car, and can cause damage to some crucial parts including: 

• Gas tank
• Fuel lines
• Fuel pump
• Fuel injection system

When these components become clogged or wear out, they aren’t as effective and can hinder the performance of your car,  meaning you’ll use more gasoline!  What are the other benefits of having a professional gas service? 

1. Better Performance

Professional gas service will help the engine run better, improving the power and performance. Your car will run smoother and have more pep. 

2. Increased Fuel Mileage

As we have stated, and this can’t be stressed enough, with professional gas service, your car will get better gas mileage. Making fewer trips to the gas pumps is worthwhile! 

3. Longer Lifespan

Along with oil changes, radiator, and transmission flushes, getting professional gas service for your car will extend the life of your car’s engine. 

How much does a professional gas service cost?

This can vary between mechanics and from car to car. The make, model, and year will have a determining consideration as well the condition of the car. 

 Can I do my own gas service?

If you’re a mechanically inclined person, yes. You’ll need basic tools to check the fuel filter, fuel lines, and fuel pump. If your car is fuel injection, there are different specifics for a gas service job. 

Before The Sput Sput Sput: What are the signs that my car needs a gas service? 

The biggest indication that your car needs professional gas service is a decrease in gas mileage. If you seem to get gas frequently to go around the corner and get gas again, your car probably isn’t running as well as it could. Give us a call at __PHONE__ if you need gas service in Festus, MO!

Get Your Motor Going

What is a ‘jump start’? What does that mean? The Free Dictionary online describes this as, “to get someone going or functioning.” It could mean waking somebody up a little earlier than is normal to ‘jump start’ their day or arriving at work earlier than required to ‘jump start’ your day before it gets hectic. 

When it comes to cars, the term jump start is referring to a dead battery. We all know that if the battery in your car is dead, you’re not going anywhere, right? So, you need someone to ‘jump start’ your car, typically using their own battery and jumper cables. Well, how do you jump start a car?

You can always call a wrecker service to come to jump start your car, but that isn’t always possible. Fortunately, with some instructions, you can do your own jump start with the help of another person’s car and jumper cables, then follow these steps: 

• Place the 2 vehicles grill to grill or side-by-side. 
• Set the emergency brake on both cars.
• Open the hood on both cars and remove any battery covers. 
• Identify the negative and positive battery terminals and clean any corrosion off with a wire brush.
• Connect one battery cable red clamp to the dead battery’s positive post.
• Connect the other battery cable red clamp to the good battery’s positive post.
• Connect one black clamp to the good battery’s negative post.
• Connect the other black clamp to an unpainted metal surface of the dead battery car.
• Start the engine of the good battery car and let it run for a few minutes. 
• Then attempt to start the dead battery engine.

Why is my car not starting with a jump start? 

If the dead battery car still didn’t start, you’ll need to troubleshoot to find out why.  

• Is there a clicking noise as you try to start the car?  That could indicate a bad starter.
• Is the electrical system working, like the headlights or radio? If not, that may indicate you need a new battery, or a fuse is blown, or the ignition switch has gone out. 

If you aren’t experiencing any of those two things, try to start the car again with the jump after letting the good battery car run a little longer. The dead battery may need more power from the dead battery before the jump start takes.

Once my car battery dies, do I have to get a new battery?

Do you need a new car battery or can you charge it? When a battery dies, it doesn’t automatically mean you need a replacement battery. If the jump start doesn’t work, take your car to a mechanic (you’ll have to have it towed at this point). They can inspect the battery and all things electrical and then advise you of what the problem is and the best solution, which may be replacing the battery.

 Why should I call someone to jump start my car?

Jump starting a car isn’t a one-person job for a non-mechanic. There are dangers in jump starting a car and having a 2^nd person to help you with the process is always recommended.  This is especially true of newer cars that have computers. 

How is jump starting a car dangerous?

What begins as a well-meaning jump start can lead to a power surge that could damage the onboard computers. That can affect the safety systems and even damage the engine, all resulting in expensive repairs.

What do I do if I need a jump start?

And is a jump start an emergency? Well, if you’re trying to leave for work and the battery is dead, then it will seem like an emergency to you! So, do I call 911 if my car won’t start? No, it isn’t that kind of an emergency, unless you’re on a train track, your car dies, and the train is coming. But don’t wait to call 911, get out of the car and get to a safe area away from the track. 

Otherwise, is needing a jump start an emergency worthy of calling 911? Absolutely not! Call your auto club service, a family member, a friend, or a local garage. If you’re in an area you’re comfortable and familiar with, you can ask somebody close to you for help. 

Closing Thoughts

It is important to make sure your battery is in good condition. With each oil change, ask the technicians to check the battery. Most of them will tell you if they see issues with the battery and make any suggestions. 

Once your battery has had to have a jump start, you should have the battery checked by a mechanic or an auto parts store. It may have been caused by leaving the headlights on, and in that case, it’s probably fine. But it may something more detailed within the car’s electrical system or the battery may be nearing its end of service. 

Towing a Motorcycle

It’s time for summer vacation, and families everywhere are making plans! As exciting as this time of the year is, make sure you get the car, truck, or RV inspected and checked out for the road. Including making sure that the vehicle you’ll be using can tow any of the things you’re taking like boats, jet skis, ATVs, and or motorcycles. Keeping in mind that motorcycle towing is a little different than the other things you may be taking with you. 

What is the best way to transport your motorcycle?

If you’re new to the world of motorcycles, the dealership where you purchased your bike can provide you the different motorcycle towing options available to you. If you’re new to motorcycle ownership, there is nothing to be embarrassed about asking, “How do I tow a motorcycle?”.  Chances are, you have already gone through a class on how to handle a bike before the purchase was complete. But if they didn’t cover motorcycle towing, they are a great source of information. 

Having it towed by a professional wrecker service that specializes in motorcycle towing, but Motorcycle towing costs can be expensive, especially if you’re going on vacation!  You don’t want to plan on using that type of motorcycle towing unless you’re broken down. 

So, what is the DIY way of motorcycle towing?  There are advantages to this method, but there are a few downsides as well that should be considered. First, let’s review the how and what about DIY motorcycle towing, starting with the statement, “take your time, do it right”. Here are the recommended steps for DIY motorcycle towing: 

• Get the right towing vehicle or trailer that is properly equipped for securing the bike. Pickups are the first choice, your own or a rental, or purchase a motorcycle trailer. 
• Have help on hand because even the smallest of motorcycles can get heavy when you’re loading and unloading it alone. The bike should be in neutral and a person on each side as you roll it up the ramp. 
• Tying the bike down is crucial for safe motorcycle towing. Using with a soft tie and a solid structural place to wrap the tie around, like the fork assembly or the lower triple clamp. Never use the brake lines or wires! And don’t put pressure on the bodywork or fenders. 
• Have 4 straps for each corner of the bike.
• Check your vehicle insurance to make sure you’re covered for your motorcycle. Towing has it dangers and obstacles, and if you get pulled over, they are going to check your insurance. 

Now, the pros and cons of DIY motorcycle towing. 

• The Pros: You will be in control of the bike arriving at your destination. That is part of the allure of a motorcycle – being in control! You’ll also save money by DIY motorcycle towing if you take your time, have the right equipment and supplies, and get help loading and unloading the bike. 
• The Cons: Just like any hobby or pastime, motorcycles will take a lot of your time, and a lot of money with additional things like equipment. Yes, it will be cheaper (if you do it right) than paying for professional motorcycle towing, but don’t be cheap with quality of the tie-downs or ratchets. 

Is it illegal to tow a motorcycle?

Not when it is done correctly and adhered to the state guidelines for motorcycle towing. Don’t be that person that causes a wreck on the roadways. Ensure that you have the bike properly loaded and secured either in your truck or on a trailer. If you’ll be traveling through different states, check the laws on motorcycle towing in each one.        

What is needed to tow a motorcycle?

The key to safe and successful motorcycle towing is making sure you have the right equipment and tools, including a vehicle with adequate towing capacity.  Next, you need a motorcycle ramp for loading and unloading the bike or a trailer that has a built-in ramp. The ramp should be made of durable, heavy metal and if you’re using a trailer, you need to make sure you have the right hitch. Next make sure you have a small diameter tow rope, a nylon strap, and either a cable or a wire. 

Is it legal to tow a motorcycle with a car?

Yes, if the car is registered, and your insurance covers the car and the motorcycle towing.  Be sure know the state guidelines for motorcycle towing on the roadways and you have the bike secured on the towing trailer, a motorcycle carrier, or a tow dolly. 

Using a tow dolly is the easiest way to use a car for motorcycle towing, but you will need to have a hitch installed and confirm the car’s towing capacity. The dolly will be placed on the hitch and the front motorcycle tire will be at the front of the trailer then strapped down. As you load the bike onto the trailer, make sure it is in neutral gear and leave it neutral for the tow. 

Can a motorcycle tow a car?

Motorcycles can tow trailers, but the towing limit will not be sufficient to tow a car. To tow a trailer with your bike, you need to make sure you have the proper combination of motorcycle engine displacement and a lightweight trailer with all the necessary hardware.

A Closing Question on Motorcycle Towing

You can’t afford a professional motorcycle towing service. You don’t have a trailer or a pickup, but you do have a low-profile van, so can you lay a motorcycle on its side to transport it? This is not the ideal way for motorcycle towing, but it can be done. Make sure you drain the gasoline, oil, and all fluids, then remove the battery first. Once you have arrived at your destination, stand the bike upright and let it sit for several hours before adding any fluids or installing the battery. 

Get Your Car Running Again

Other than a flat tire, what is the worst way to get your day off to a bad start than a dead car battery? You must hope you can find somebody to give you a jumpstart and hope you’re not parked where it is impossible for them to reach your battery! Or you hopefully belong to an auto club that offers jump start services. But no matter the kind of help you have, all of this can make you late for school, work, or other appointments. 

If you don’t have a jump start service to call, if you can find a fellow driver with jumper cables that is willing to help you can provide your own jump start service. Before you do this, make sure you know the proper process, or you can do severe damage to your car and/or theirs. 

How do you jump start a car?

This skill isn’t learned as much as filling the gas tank, but it can be a critical skill and remembering it could keep you, or somebody else, from being stranded: 

• Park: Both cars should be as close to each other as possible, without touching, and the engine should be turned off. 
• Preparation: Open the hood on both vehicles, then unwind and untangle the jumper cables.
• Connection: Hook the red clamp of the jumper cable to the dead battery’s positive terminal, indicated by a + emblem.  Then, hook the red clamp to the positive terminal, indicated by the + emblem of the working battery. Hook the black clamp of the jumper cable to the working battery’s negative terminal, indicated by a – emblem. Then hook the last black clamp to an unpainted metal surface on the dead car.
• Starting the cars: In this order, start the car with the working battery, wait a minute then start the car with the dead battery. 
• Disconnect: Now, in the reverse order that you hooked the two cars together with the jumper cables, remove the cables, assuming the dead car battery started.
• Let the Car Run: Let the car engine rev up a few minutes, and then drive it for 15 minutes or more to get the battery charged. 

If the dead battery car won’t start, check the jumper cables connections, and try again. If it still won’t charge, either the battery is completely dead or there is another issue that must be dealt with. 

So, why do the positive cables need to be connected first? This will avoid shorting the battery of either car and if either is a newer car with a computer, it will prevent damage to the computer and entire electrical system. 

Why does the last jumper cable end need to be attached to an unpainted metal part of the dead battery car? This will avoid any potential possibility of damaging the dead battery and the person(s) performing the jump start service. 

How long does it take to jump start a car?

Untangling and unwinding the jumper cables will take longer than the actual jumping off process if the dead battery will jump off. Once the cables are connected, the jumpstarting process will usually take approximately five minutes.

If you have a jump start service, they will likely have their jumper cables in a ready-to-use mode, i.e., not tangled up. You’ll need to show your membership card and driver’s license though, which may take longer than the jump-starting process. The jump start process will take about 5 minutes for them as well. 

Is a jump start bad for a car?

It can be, which is why you never want to try providing or receiving a jump start service if you or the other person isn’t sure of the proper process. A damaged battery can start a fire when the jumper cables are connected. A car battery contains sulfuric acid that becomes vapors that can be highly flammable. Because jumper cables can spark and ignite those vapors, it can start a fire, and in rare cases, they have exploded. 

Does jump starting a car damage the computer?

Absolutely!  Most vehicles on the road today have multiple computers that power vital functions, as well as the radio, navigation system, televisions, and other devices.  When jumper cables are incorrectly connected or crossed, the potential damage can cause an electrical short, damaging one or more of those computers. 

Will you know when that happens? Not always – it may be after you start the dead battery car and start driving, and then realize the radio isn’t working, the power locks and windows aren’t working, or you identify other isues. Proper jump start service is more important on cars today than ever before.

How long should a car run after being jump started?

A minimum run time of 15 minutes is recommended. The longer the better to allow the alternator time to recharge the battery. 

Why won’t my car jump start?

Your dead car battery could be due to the weather, or maybe you left the lights on. It could also be as simple as having an old battery that’s past its time. When a jump start service doesn’t get your car started, it could also be for any of the following reasons: 

• The Battery: As we have mentioned, the car battery may be too old; typically they need replacing every three to five years. The battery may also be damaged beyond a jump start service.  A new battery is your only option in these cases. 

• The Battery Terminals: The battery terminals could be corroded or loose, restricting the electrical flow to the car. Removing the battery cable ends and with a wire brush, clean the corrosion off, including the bolts that connect the cables. This will usually allow the jump start service to work if there isn’t anything more wrong with the battery. 

• The Alternator: The car battery needs the alternator to meet all the electrical needs of a car. They are a team with the alternator recharging the battery’s electrical power.  The alternator also supplies the electrical current needed to all the car’s electrical accessories while you’re driving. Headlight dimming when you’re stopped is one indication that you need your car inspected by a mechanic. A jump start service may get your battery jumped and your car running again, but dimming lights mean the battery is about to be done. 

• The Starter Motor: The starter on your car requires electricity from the battery to start the car. When the starter is defective, it can’t start the engine, which keeps the battery from providing electrical power to the car. Time to schedule an appointment with your mechanic. 

• The Safety Switch: Automatic transmission cars have a safety switch that will keep the car from starting if it isn’t in PARK or NEUTRAL. A manual transmission car has the same switch that won’t allow the car to start if the clutch pedal isn’t fully depressed. If that safety switch is bad, a jump start service isn’t going to get your car started. The switch needs to be replaced and then you should be able to proceed with happy motoring. 

• The Jumper Cables: The jumper cables must be properly connected for a successful jump start service of a battery that isn’t completely discharged. If the jumper-cables are too long or too lightweight, they may not have enough current to jump start a car. A key investment for your car is a quality pair of jumper cables.

What to do if your car dies and you don’t have jumper cables?

There are a few little-known tricks that may provide a jump start service when there aren’t jumper cables around or battery tricks you can try to get your vehicle running again. 

• Tapping on the battery terminals; jarring them could provide a better connection for the battery.
• Trying to start the car in neutral can sometimes establish an electrical contact inside the safety switch. 
• Trick the computer by pressing the accelerator halfway then start the engine. You may need to try this a few times before the car starts. 

How much does jump start service cost?

This can vary from area to area and what type of car you have. The average cost is around $100 to $150. 

One Last Jump Start Service Question

If your motorcycle won’t start, do you know how to jump start a motorcycle? Is it different from jump starting a car? Well, if you have the time, simply connect the battery to a charger and wait for the battery to charge up. But, if time is of the essence, there isn’t any difference between a jump start service for a motorcycle and a car. 

A motorcycle can be jump started from a motorcycle or a car. The only difference is when a motorcycle is jump started by a car, the power of the car battery will immediately power up the bike’s battery. This means you shouldn’t need to leave the jumped bike running to get it going again.

How do I tow a motorcycle?

Owning a motorcycle is the same but different than owning a car. It is a way of transportation and has responsibilities like a car, and the mechanics have the same general method. Yet, how you work on them and how you tow them are different. There are specific motorcycle towing services, or a towing company that is trained in how to tow a motorcycle. 

What’s the best way to tow a motorcycle?

If you have never towed a motorcycle and wondered how do they tow motorcycles, the first thing you need to know is that having the proper equipment and tools is necessary to do this safely. You want to make sure that the equipment and vehicle you’re going to use can bear the bike’s weight, aka the towing capacity. 

A hitch is an essential tool you’ll need for motorcycle towing service. This is a metal piece that will attach to the tow vehicle’s rear. You’ll need a quality tow rope as well. Last, but not least, use one of the simple motorcycle towing options as described here: 

Towing Trailer

A towing trailer is a safe motorcycle towing service method. The trailers are a good size, and this makes them visible to other traffic on the roadways. For proper motorcycle towing service with a towing trailer, you’ll need tie-down hooks and correctly positioned ramps.

After loading the bike, you should always check the blinkers and brake lights, making sure they are in proper working order with the tow vehicle. If you’re purchasing a towing trailer, be sure you have plenty of space for storage in a specified area. 

Towing Dolly

If your storage space is limited, a tow dolly is another option for motorcycle towing service. These typically weigh around 35 pounds and are smaller in overall dimension, making it easier to store when not towing. To use this method of motorcycle towing service, the front tire of the bike is attached to the tow dolly, never the back tire.

Motorcycle Carrier

A motorcycle carrier is another motorcycle towing service option. They are an easy and simply method but limited to approximately 500 pounds. The average motorcycle weighs around 400 pounds, making this method acceptable. However, for any bike larger than 400 pounds, choose one of the other motorcycle towing services we describe. 

Is it bad to lay a motorcycle down to transport it?

It isn’t good to lay a motorcycle on its side for motorcycle towing service or any reason. If you must lay it down, it should only be for a short amount of time. Here, we explain the reasons you shouldn’t lay your motorcycle on its side for storage, towing, or any reason: 

External Issues: 

The cosmetics are the first risk of laying a motorcycle on its side. With the average bike weighing around 400 pounds, the gas tank is made with a thin plastic or sheet metal. Laying the bike on the side will likely cause a crack or dent in the tank. 

Unless your motorcycle has a custom paint job on the tank, it can easily be fixed or replaced. Other issues that a motorcycle towing service that lays a bike down are damage to the brake handle, clutch handle, footpegs, handlebars, and throttle. The air intake is sometimes designed to stick out further than the gas tank, which provides a small protective safeguard. If the air intake is damaged, it is less expensive to replace than the gas tank.

Internal Issues

The damage internally is minimal for a motorcycle that has been towed on its side for a short time. However, if the motorcycle towing service has the bike on its side for a long period of time, the fluids inside the bike are going to be the biggest concern. 

• The battery acid, gasoline, and oil will drain and leak into crevices and parts that should never have fluid in them. A common issue internally resulting from motorcycle towing on the side is hydro lock. The small cylindrical cavity inside the motorcycle, the combustion chamber, is where air and gas are pushed. They then explode so the bike can run.
• As oil seeps past the piston rings, it settles inside the combustion chamber. When there is a substantial amount of oil inside the combustion chamber, the spark plug isn’t able to ignite the gas as it is squirted inside the chamber because of the lack of air. With too much gas inside the combustion chamber, it locks up the engine. 
• The battery is another concern when motorcycle towing service is on the side. The battery is not sealed and has a port that allows air inside on the top that keeps it from getting pressurized. When a motorcycle is laid on the side, battery acid leaks from that port all over the place. Battery acid can cause severe cosmetic damage and create a serious safety risk too. 

How much does it cost to tow a motorcycle?

A motorcycle towing service charges an average $75 to $125 for up to 10 miles, then an additional rate of up to $4/per mile. The factors that are considered by the towing company are: 

• The Distance: From the time a tow truck leaves the shop, it is costing them money in labor and gas. Thus the minimum charge or minimum mileage. 

• The Vehicle Size: Price is often based on the size of the vehicle being towed. A 4-door sedan will cost less than a full-size pick-up and a motorcycle towing service will vary on the size of the bike and how it must be towed. 

• Time of Day: This can be a crucial factor for a car or motorcycle towing service because of the hazards. Rush hour is a dangerous time of the day because of all the traffic. After hours, after 8 pm, is more hazardous than an earlier hour like 11 am because of the darkness and risks of towing at night. 

What is the cheapest way to transport a motorcycle?

When you find a motorcycle towing company and check the rates for a motorcycle towing service, you may want to shop it around. One way to tow your bike cheaper is to do it yourself. However, you’ll need to purchase motorcycle towing equipment or rent it, which can be an expense. Unless you plan to tow your bike frequently, it may not be worth the cost. 

Does AAA tow motorcycles?

Yes, with any of these membership levels, a customer can add the option of motorcycle coverage to their policy: 

• Classic
• Plus
• Premier
• Plus RV
• Premier RV 

Last Few Words

As you find a company, an individual, or doing it yourself, motorcycle towing service is a bit more detailed than towing a vehicle. Be sure it is done with the utmost care and safety for the person towing, those around them, and your bike. 

Dealing with a Gas Emergency 

Maybe the only feeling worse than locking your keys in the car is realizing you’re running out of gas. You’re driving down the road and the car starts to putt-putt-putt, getting slower and slower until it just stops. Hopefully, you were able to pull over to a safe place and call for car gas service in time. 

Many of you reading this probably weren’t alive before roadside assistance was invented. Before that, if you had a gas can, you started walking to the nearest gas station. If you were lucky, somebody would stop and offer to help you take you to the car gas service station. 

Now, the question is, why did you run out of gas? Did you not see how low it was and stop to gas up? Or maybe you have a car and gas leak issue you didn’t know about. If you know what car gas smells like you may have known to get your car into the shop. So, what does car gas smell like? 

Identifying the Smell of Gas

Automobile gasoline contains approximately 150 chemicals, one being benzene. Benzene has such a strong odor to it that it can be smelled at 0.25 parts of gasoline for every million parts of air. To give aftershave a sweet aroma in the 1800s, benzene was added. But once scientists discovered it to cause cancer, it was no longer used. 

Let’s discuss how a car gas tank works and why car gas service is so important to how a car runs. The fuel systems used in cars today are more complex than the cars our parents and grandparents drove. First of all, they are all controlled by the ECU, (electronic control unit). The ECU is a small device that controls a specific function. To get car gas service with these, you want to take your car to a mechanic that is ASE trained and certified. 

The gas tank holds most of the gasoline for a car’s fuel system. You fill the tank through a small hole that seals up with a gas cap. The gas is processed through several steps before car gas services the engine, where it is needed. 

The steps are primarily the same for every car, with some differences depending on the engine and model of car. The steps include: 

• The fuel pump pulls the gas out of the gas tank.
• The fuel pump pushes the gas into metal fuel lines. 
• The metal fuel lines take the gas to a fuel filter.
• The fuel filter does what the name implies, filters the fuel.
• Then the fuel is sent to the engine with the fuel pump still providing the force. 
• Finally, the gas reaches the engine. But how does it get into the combustion chamber?

Carburetors were the component that took the gas into the combustion chamber of the engine for most of the 20th century. The carburetor would mix the gas with air to ignite the gas inside the combustion chamber. Today, that car gas service part of the process is done by fuel injection. 

There are mechanical fuel injected cars and electronic fuel injected cars, with the latter being more common. In either case, the ECU is the controlling component in cars, and many old school mechanics and car buffs aren’t a fan of the new way. More good comes from this process like better car gas engine efficiency and other car gas services are handled with software updates to the ECU. 

Why Car Exhaust Smells Like Gas – Are car gas leaks dangerous?

If your car smells like gas outside the motor, this is usually the air. It may mean the fuel ratio is off – in other words, the combustion chamber isn’t getting enough air or it’s getting too much fuel. The smell of gas fumes in or around are annoying, inconvenient, and in most cases, completely harmless. However, if you can locate where the gas smell is coming from and ascertain the cause, err to the side of caution and have it fixed. 

• Gas Vapors and Spills Exposure

The fumes you get while pumping gas in your car will get inside the car when you open the door or roll a window down. Any gas that is spilled nearby will also be noticeable. However, if you believe the gas odor is coming from your car and it doesn’t disappear, take your car to a mechanic. 

• Older Cars – Gas Smells

Any car made in the early 1980s will emit a slight gas smell once the car is turned off. This is called fuel afterboil and happens in the bowl of the carburetor. 

• Gas Leaks

The fuel system of your car can have a number of places for gas leaks. Like a leaking fuel line, sometimes easily noticed by puddles under a parked car. A line to the fuel injection can start to leak, creating that smell of gas while you drive, or the fuel tank vent hose will sometimes leak. This will cause unburned gas to leave the fuel system in a vapor. You should see car gas services to have those leaks repaired because puddles of gas are a fire hazard.

• Fuel Pressure Irregular

When the fuel pressure regulator goes bad, it will cause the gas to run too rich or too thin. This causes excess gas burning, making a strong gas fume presence from the exhaust and noticeable outside around the car. As the gas seeps into the ventilation system, the inside of your car will smell like gas. You want to get this car gas service to the fuel pressure regulator as quickly as possible.  

A Final Question 

How long is car gas good for before it goes bad or evaporates? If you’re planning on storing gasoline for emergencies, you want to purchase the best car gas can possible. The better the can, the better gas will store. 

The shelf life of regular car gas service life is three to six months. Diesel on the other hand will last 1 year, while organic-based Ethanol can last 30 to 90 days before it loses its combustibility from evaporation and oxidation. Meanwhile, if you think you may be in need of car gas service in Festus, MO, reach out to the Pippin Towing & Recovery team at __PHONE__.