A car breakdown can happen anytime on your way to work, during a weekend trip, or even right outside your driveway. It’s stressful, unexpected, and often happens when you least expect it.
If your car breaks down in Winnipeg, knowing exactly what to do can keep you safe and get you back on the road faster.
As the owner of AM Towing Services, I’ve helped countless drivers through breakdown situations across Winnipeg. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of what to do when your car suddenly stops working, how to stay calm, and how to get quick roadside assistance in Winnipeg.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Signal Right Away
The first thing you must do is stay calm. Take a deep breath and try not to panic. The more focused you are, the faster you’ll make the right decisions.
If your car is still moving, turn on your hazard lights immediately. This signals to other drivers that you’re in trouble and need space. Try to steer your car to the shoulder or a safe area away from traffic, a parking lot, a side street, or even a grassy area if necessary.
If your car stops in the middle of the road and can’t move, keep your seatbelt on, turn on your hazards, and avoid getting out until it’s safe. Staying visible and calm is your best first move.
Step 2: Pull Over Safely and Make Your Vehicle Visible
Once you’re out of traffic, make your vehicle as visible as possible. Winnipeg drivers are used to snowy or low-visibility conditions, especially in winter, so extra visibility matters.
- Keep your hazard lights flashing.
- Raise your car’s hood — it signals that you’re having engine trouble.
- If you have a reflective triangle or roadside flare, place it a few meters behind your car.
- Avoid standing close to the road. Always stay on the side away from traffic.
This step is especially important at night or during bad weather when visibility drops. Many breakdown accidents happen because other drivers can’t see a stopped vehicle soon enough.
Step 3: Identify Where You Are
Knowing your exact location helps you get help faster. Check for street signs, highway exits, landmarks, or nearby businesses.
If you’re using a smartphone, open Google Maps to find your coordinates or share your live location when you call for help.
When you contact a towing service in Winnipeg, giving them precise details like “northbound on Route 90 near the Kenaston bridge” helps them reach you quickly.
Step 4: Assess the Problem (Only If It’s Safe)
Before calling for assistance, do a quick visual check. Sometimes the problem might be simple:
- Battery died? You might need a jump-start.
- Flat tire? A spare tire can get you back on the road.
- Out of fuel? You’ll need fuel delivery service.
- Locked out? You might need a vehicle lockout service in Winnipeg.
If you can fix the issue safely (for example, changing a tire in a quiet area), go ahead. But never try to fix anything near fast-moving traffic, especially on highways or icy roads.
If you see smoke, smell fuel, or hear strange noises, get out and move to a safe distance. Then, call for help immediately.
Step 5: Call for Professional Roadside Assistance
If your car won’t start or it’s unsafe to drive, it’s time to call a trusted towing service in Winnipeg.
That’s where AM Towing Services can help. We provide fast, reliable, and affordable emergency towing and roadside assistance anywhere in and around Winnipeg.
When calling for help, give the dispatcher these details:
- Your exact location.
- Your vehicle’s make, model, and colour.
- The issue you’re facing (flat tire, engine won’t start, accident, etc.).
- Any safety concerns (for example, if you’re near traffic or stuck in a snowbank).
Providing clear information ensures that the right type of tow truck or equipment is sent your way.
Step 6: Stay Safe While You Wait
While you wait for help to arrive, safety should be your top priority.
- Stay inside your car if it’s safe and warm enough.
- Keep your seatbelt on and doors locked.
- Use your phone sparingly to save battery.
- If it’s winter and freezing, run the engine for a few minutes every 10-15 minutes to stay warm, but make sure the exhaust pipe isn’t blocked by snow or ice.
- Avoid accepting rides from strangers. It’s always best to wait for a professional service you’ve contacted yourself.
If it’s dark or stormy, stay calm. Winnipeg towing professionals are used to these conditions and will find you quickly.
Step 7: When Help Arrives
Once the tow truck or roadside technician arrives:
- Clearly explain what happened.
- Confirm where your vehicle will be towed your home, a nearby mechanic, or a repair shop.
- Take personal belongings or valuables out of your car before towing.
- If your car has been involved in an accident, take photos for insurance before it’s moved.
Good towing companies (like AM Towing Services) will always give you a receipt, explain the next steps, and make sure you understand everything before leaving.
8: After the Breakdown — Prevent Future Problems
A breakdown can be a useful reminder to take better care of your vehicle. Here’s how you can reduce the chances of it happening again:
- Get regular oil changes and battery checks.
- Keep your tires inflated and inspect them often.
- Don’t ignore warning lights on your dashboard.
- Before long trips, check your coolant, oil, and wiper fluids.
- Always carry an emergency roadside kit, flashlight, blanket, jumper cables, phone charger, water, and snacks.
A few minutes of preparation can save you hours of frustration later.
Extra Tips for Winter Breakdowns in Winnipeg
Winnipeg winters can be brutal, and breakdowns are more common in extreme cold.
Here’s how to handle them:
- Keep a snow brush, shovel, and extra warm clothes in your car.
- Make sure your fuel tank is at least half full it helps prevent freezing.
- Avoid sudden acceleration or braking on icy roads.
- If your car is stuck in snow, avoid spinning the tires. Call a Winnipeg towing service that offers winch-outs instead.
When temperatures drop below –25°C, even well-maintained cars can fail to start, so always be prepared.
Step 9: Save a Reliable Towing Contact for the Future
When your car breaks down, you don’t have time to search for help. Save a trusted number like AM Towing Services – (204) 890-4945 in your phone so you’re always ready.
We offer:
- 24/7 emergency towing in Winnipeg
- Roadside assistance (battery boosts, tire changes, fuel delivery)
- Vehicle lockout service
- Affordable local and long-distance towing
Whether it’s day or night, summer or snowstorm, you can count on me to arrive quickly and treat your vehicle with care.
Final Words
Having your car break down in Winnipeg is never fun, but it doesn’t have to be scary.
If you remember these simple steps — stay calm, stay safe, and call for help — you’ll handle the situation like a pro.
Keep this guide handy, save AM Towing Services in your contacts, and drive with confidence knowing that help is always nearby.
If you ever need fast, friendly, and reliable towing service in Winnipeg, I’m just a call away.
Stay safe, drive smart, and enjoy your journey knowing that you’re prepared for anything.