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Roadside assistance

Expert Insights on Roadside Assistance

Roadside assistance services are designed to help drivers in need, whether it’s a flat tire, dead battery, or emergency towing. In this category, our experts offer tips and advice on how to handle common roadside issues, when to call for help, and how professional roadside assistance can keep you safe and on the road. Explore our articles to stay prepared for any unexpected situation while driving.

How Much Is Roadside Assistance? | Average Cost, Plans & Coverage Explained

How Much Is Roadside Assistance? | Average Cost, Plans & Coverage Explained

by
Roadside assistance

When your vehicle unexpectedly breaks down, having reliable roadside assistance can make all the difference. Whether you need towing services, a battery boost, or fuel delivery, getting fast and professional help ensures you’re back on the road safely. But how much does roadside assistance really cost, and what does it cover? In this guide, we’ll break down the pricing, coverage options, and factors that affect the cost, helping you choose the best roadside assistance plan for your needs and budget. 

What Does Roadside Assistance Typically Cover?

Roadside assistance typically provides coverage for a range of common vehicle issues, including:

Facing a roadside emergency? Get help quick!

What Is the Average Cost of Roadside Assistance Services in Canada?

The cost of roadside assistance depends on several factors, including coverage type, service provider, and frequency of use. Some drivers opt for membership-based roadside assistance programs offered by auto clubs and insurance companies, while others prefer pay-per-use services. Below, we break down the average cost associated with these options.

Membership-Based Roadside Assistance

Many auto clubs and insurance providers offer roadside assistance programs that offer coverage for a yearly or monthly fee. Here are some common price ranges:

  • Basic Plan: $50 – $250 per year (usually includes battery service, fuel delivery, towing, and flat tire assistance).
  • Auto Insurance Roadside Assistance: Many auto insurance policies offer roadside assistance as an add-on for $20 – $60 per year.

24/7, Pay-Per-Use Roadside Assistance

If you don’t have a roadside assistance membership, you can still access services on a pay-per-use basis. Here are average roadside assistance service costs in Canada:

  • Towing: $150 – $250 for up to 10 km, with additional charges for longer distances.
  • Battery Boost: $50 – $100, depending on the vehicle type.
  • Flat Tire Assistance: $40 – $80 (excluding the cost of a new tire if needed).
  • Emergency Fuel Delivery: $50 – $75 (plus the cost of fuel).
  • Lockout Assistance: $50 – $100 (depending on the vehicle model).

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Roadside Assistance Membership vs. 24/7 Services: Which Is the Better Choice?

When faced with a vehicle breakdown, many drivers assume that a roadside assistance subscription is the best way to get help. However, 24/7 road assistance grants more flexibility, faster response times, and better protection in a dangerous situation. Let’s compare and contrast both options to see which one offers the best value.

Response Times

One of the biggest advantages of using 24/7 services over a roadside assistance subscription is the immediate access to help. Subscription-based roadside assistance calls often involve long wait times, especially during peak hours or bad driving conditions. At Norman Towing, we are always ready to assist you. If you’re stranded in a dangerous situation, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll be there at a moment’s notice to make sure you’re back on the road quickly!

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Hidden Fees

Many insurance-based roadside assistance plans come with unexpected costs that aren’t always clear upfront. While basic services may be included, you could face additional charges for fuel delivery, winching, or towing beyond a limited distance. These hidden fees can add up quickly, turning what seems like a budget-friendly service into an expensive one.

At Norman Towing, we believe in complete transparency—you get upfront pricing with no surprises. Whether you need towing, a battery boost, fuel delivery, or roadside recovery, we provide reliable assistance without insurance restrictions, membership limitations, or fine-print fees. With us, you’ll always know exactly what to expect—fast, professional service when you need it most.

Coverage for Different Vehicles and Situations

​Subscription-based roadside assistance programs often have limitations, covering only standard passenger vehicles and excluding specialized services for:​

  • Disabled Vehicles Requiring Special Handling: Vehicles that are immobilized or require unique equipment for safe transportation may not be covered under standard plans.​
  • Large Trucks or Service Vehicles: Heavy-duty vehicles often fall outside the coverage scope of typical roadside assistance programs, necessitating specialized towing services.​
  • Pickup Trucks Needing Custom Towing Solutions: Certain pickup trucks, especially those with modifications, may require tailored towing approaches not provided by standard services.​
  • Assistance in Remote Breakdown Locations: Breakdowns occurring in remote or off-road areas might be beyond the reach of conventional roadside assistance coverage.​

At Norman Towing, we recognize these gaps and offer comprehensive solutions for all vehicle types, including compact cars, trucks, and RVs. Our services are designed to accommodate specialized towing needs and provide assistance in challenging locations, ensuring you’re covered regardless of your vehicle or situation.

Insurance Considerations

​In Canada, relying on insurance-based roadside assistance can sometimes involve complexities such as pre-approvals, mileage limitations, and processing delays. Additionally, some programs may limit the number of service calls annually or impose towing distance caps, sometimes as short as 10 kilometers.

Understanding these potential restrictions is crucial, especially during unexpected breakdowns where timely assistance is essential. Opting for direct service providers like Norman Towing can offer immediate support without the need for extensive paperwork or navigating insurance protocols. This approach ensures prompt assistance, minimizing stress and delays during roadside emergencies.

Greater Flexibility for Any Vehicle or Driver

Many insurance-based roadside assistance plans come with strict limitations, often covering only the primary driver or a single registered vehicle. This can be inconvenient for households with multiple cars, rental vehicles, or shared driving arrangements. If you break down in a borrowed or rented car, your insurance-based roadside assistance may not apply, leaving you stranded.

At Norman Towing, we provide hassle-free roadside assistance that covers any driver, any vehicle, anywhere. Whether you’re driving your own car, a rental, a friend’s vehicle, or even a company car, we’re here to help—without the need for pre-approvals or complicated policy restrictions. Our direct service ensures that you get assistance when you need it, no matter what you’re driving!

The most common questions about roadside assistance

The Perks of Norman Towing’s 24/7 Roadside Assistance Services

  • No Membership Required: Get immediate service without a membership or annual fees.
  • Always Available: Breakdowns don’t follow a schedule, which is why Norman Towing operates 24/7, ensuring you get help whenever and wherever you need it.
  • Comprehensive Service Coverage: From fuel delivery and jump-starts to heavy-duty towing and accident recovery, our services cover every roadside emergency.
  • Fast and Efficient Response: We pride ourselves on quick response times, minimizing your wait and getting you back on the road safely.
  • Personalized Assistance: Each breakdown is different, which is why we tailor our services to your specific situation rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions.
  • Reliable Service Providers: Our team is made up of experienced and professional towing specialists who are trained to handle a wide range of vehicle issues.
  • No Limitations on Assistance: Subscription-based plans often restrict the number of service calls you can make, but with Norman Towing, you can call for help as often as needed.
  • Support for All Vehicle Types: We assist not only standard passenger vehicles but also motorcycles, commercial trucks, RVs, and even luxury vehicles.
  • Transparent Pricing: With Norman Towing, you’ll always know the cost upfront—no hidden fees, no unexpected add-ons.
  • Safety-Focused Approach: Our team prioritizes your safety, ensuring that you and your vehicle are removed from dangerous roadside situations as quickly as possible.

When you need roadside assistance, don’t wait for a subscription-based service to respond. Contact Norman Towing for fast, professional, and reliable help anytime you need it.

Need immediate roadside assistance? Call Norman Towing now!

Norman Towing: 24/7 Roadside Services You Can Count On 

At Norman Towing, we provide fast, reliable, and professional roadside assistance whenever you need it. Whether you’re dealing with a flat tire, dead battery, or unexpected breakdown, our 24/7 towing services ensure you’re never left stranded. When you need help on the road, trust us to get you moving again—quickly and safely!

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Who Should I Call If My Car Breaks Down? A Step-by-Step Guide

Who Should I Call If My Car Breaks Down? A Step-by-Step Guide

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Roadside assistance

A vehicle breakdown can be stressful and unpredictable, especially if it happens on a busy highway, in bad weather, or in an unfamiliar location. In these moments, knowing who to call and what steps to take can ensure your safety, prevent further damage to your vehicle, and get you back on the road as quickly as possible.

Whether you’re dealing with a dead battery, a flat tire, or an engine failure, having a plan in place can save time and frustration. In this guide, we explain who to contact for roadside assistance, what information you should have ready, and how to stay safe while waiting for help. Keep reading to make sure you’re prepared for any car emergency!

Who Do I Call for Immediate Assistance after a Car Breakdown?

Roadside Assistance Services

If you’re stranded on the road due to a breakdown, getting help quickly is crucial. At Norman Towing, we provide fast, reliable roadside assistance to get you back on track safely. Whether it’s a flat tire, dead battery, or towing need, our expert team is ready to assist you anytime, anywhere. 

Here is a list of our services in Toronto and the GTA: 

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Emergency Services (911)

If you find yourself in a dangerous situation, such as being stuck in heavy traffic or stranded on a busy road, it’s vital to call emergency services immediately. Operators can quickly dispatch police officers or highway patrol to manage traffic, secure your safety, and provide assistance if your vehicle breakdown is causing a hazard. Acting swiftly helps prevent accidents, minimizes risks, and ensures a faster resolution to the situation. 

Your Insurance Company

​In Canada, standard car insurance policies typically do not cover mechanical breakdowns or failures resulting from wear and tear, rusting, corrosion, freezing, or internal engine explosions. These exclusions apply unless the damage results from an insured peril, such as a collision or specific covered events.

Alternative Coverage Options:

  • Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI): This specialized coverage protects against unexpected mechanical failures not caused by accidents. MBI can cover repairs for issues like transmission or engine failures due to normal wear and tear. However, availability varies, and eligibility may depend on your vehicle’s age and mileage.
  • Extended Warranties: Offered by manufacturers or third-party providers, extended warranties can cover specific mechanical components beyond the original warranty period. It’s essential to understand the terms, as coverage details can vary significantly.
  • Roadside Assistance Add-Ons: Some insurance providers offer optional roadside assistance, covering services like towing, battery jump-starts, and flat tire changes. While this doesn’t cover repair costs, it can assist in getting your vehicle to a repair facility.

How much does it cost to tow a car in Toronto?

4 Immediate Steps to Take If Your Car Breaks Down

1. Recognize the Signs of Trouble

The best way to handle a vehicle breakdown is to identify potential issues early before they escalate into a more serious problem. If you notice unusual sounds, a rising engine temperature, or warning lights flashing on your dashboard, taking immediate action can help prevent further damage and keep you safe on the road.

Here are some key warning signs that indicate your car may be at risk of breaking down:

  • Engine failure or sudden loss of power: Your car struggles to accelerate or shuts off unexpectedly.
  • Weak or faulty battery: Difficulty starting the engine, dimming headlights, or electrical malfunctions.
  • Unusual smoke or burning smells: Signs of overheating, oil leaks, or brake issues.
  • Strange noises from the engine or starter motor: Clicking, grinding, or knocking sounds when trying to start the vehicle.

If you experience any of these warning signs, pull over safely and seek roadside assistance immediately to avoid a full breakdown.

Roadside assistance services in Toronto

2. Pull Over Safely and Secure Your Vehicle

The moment you experience a breakdown, turn on your hazard warning lights immediately to alert other drivers and reduce the risk of an accident. If possible, steer your vehicle toward a safe location, such as the nearest exit, the right-hand shoulder, or an emergency refuge area. Avoid stopping in dangerous spots like the middle of traffic, a high-speed highway lane, or blind curves where visibility is low.

3. Make Your Vehicle Highly Visible

Ensuring your vehicle is visible to other road users is crucial for preventing further incidents:

  • Turn on hazard lights and emergency blinkers to signal distress.
  • Place reflective triangles, markers, or traffic cones at least 50 meters behind your car to warn approaching vehicles.
  • If safe, raise your radio antenna or open the passenger-side door as additional distress signals.

4. Stay Inside Your Vehicle If It’s Safe

If your car breaks down on a high-speed highway or a busy road, it is generally safer to remain inside the vehicle with your seatbelt fastened while waiting for assistance. Exiting the car in fast-moving traffic can be extremely dangerous.

  • If you must leave the vehicle, wear a reflective vest to enhance visibility.
  • Stand behind a safety barrier if available, keeping a safe distance from traffic.

Taking these precautions ensures your safety while waiting for roadside assistance.

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Top Reasons for Car Breakdowns & How to Prevent Them

A vehicle breakdown can happen at any time, leaving you stranded and frustrated. While some issues are unavoidable, many can be prevented with regular maintenance and early detection. Below, we explore the most common causes of car breakdowns, how to identify warning signs, and what you can do to minimize the risk.

  1. Battery Issues: The Leading Cause of Breakdowns

A dead or faulty battery is one of the top reasons cars fail to start. Batteries can drain due to cold weather, frequent short trips, corrosion, or leaving lights on overnight.

Signs of a Weak or Failing Battery

  • Dim dashboard or distress lights
  • Difficulty starting the engine
  • Requiring frequent jump-starts

How to Prevent Battery Failure

  • Get your battery tested regularly, especially before winter.
  • Avoid draining the battery by turning off lights, radio, and accessories when the car is off.
  • Check for corrosion on battery terminals and clean them if necessary.
  • If your battery is over 3-5 years old, consider replacing it to avoid unexpected failures.

How to know if your car battery is dead: Key signs and solutions

  1. Fuel Issues: Running on Empty

Running out of fuel may seem like an avoidable mistake, but it happens more often than you’d think—especially on road trips when drivers miscalculate fuel stops. Additionally, fuel leaks can cause serious mechanical damage or even fire hazards.

How to Avoid Running Out of Fuel

  • Refuel before long trips and monitor fuel levels regularly.
  • Know your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and plan fuel stops accordingly.
  • Use emergency roadside assistance if you run out of fuel and need a delivery.

🚨 Warning: If you smell strong gasoline odors or notice puddles of fuel under your car, do not drive—you may have a fuel leak. Call for professional assistance immediately!

Fuel delivery services

  1. Engine Overheating: A Costly Mistake

An overheating engine can lead to total engine failure if ignored. Low coolant levels, a faulty thermostat, or a blocked radiator can cause the temperature gauge to rise dangerously high.

Prevention Tips

  • Check coolant levels regularly and top off if necessary
  • Watch for warning signs like steam or smoke from the hood
  • Never open the radiator cap when the engine is hot—the pressurized coolant can cause severe burns

What to Do If Your Engine Overheats

  • Pull over immediately and turn off the engine
  • Let the car cool down before checking coolant levels
  • Call roadside assistance if the problem persists
  1. Flat Tires and Tire Damage

A flat tire can leave you stranded, especially if it happens on a highway or in bad weather. Common causes include sharp objects, potholes, under-inflation, and uneven tread wear.

How to Minimize Tire Issues

  • Check tire pressure at least once a month
  • Inspect tread depth and look for signs of uneven wear
  • Keep a spare tire, jack, and repair kit in your car

How to Fix a Flat Tire

  • Use a tire repair kit or sealant for minor punctures
  • If you have a spare, follow your car manual’s instructions for changing the tire
  • Call for roadside assistance if you don’t have the tools or experience to change a tire safely

Flat tire services

  1. Brake Failures: A Critical Safety Concern

Brakes are one of the most important safety features in your car. Worn brake pads, low brake fluid, or malfunctioning emergency brakes can lead to accidents if left unchecked.

Warning Signs of Brake Issues

  • Soft or unresponsive brake pedal
  • Squeaking or grinding noises when braking
  • Vibrations in the steering wheel while stopping

Preventative Steps

  • Get your brakes inspected regularly as part of routine maintenance
  • If the emergency brake fails, shift into a lower gear and slowly steer to a safe stopping point
  • Check brake fluid levels and refill if needed

If your brakes stop working while driving, stay calm and act quickly to regain control. First, pump the brake pedal rapidly to build up pressure in the brake system. If that doesn’t work, shift into a lower gear to slow the car down gradually. 

You can also carefully engage the emergency brake, but do so slowly to avoid skidding. Finally, look for a safe place to pull over, such as the shoulder of the road or an emergency stopping area, and signal to other drivers while bringing your vehicle to a stop. If possible, call for roadside assistance immediately. 

  1. Transmission Problems: Expensive & Dangerous

Transmission failure can lead to dangerous driving conditions, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. Common issues include difficulty shifting gears, gear slipping, or strange noises while driving.

Preventative Measures

  • Check transmission fluid levels and look for leaks
  • Schedule routine maintenance and listen for grinding noises
  • Avoid excessive strain on the transmission, especially in cold weather

If your car hesitates when shifting gears or you notice fluid leaks, get it inspected immediately—transmission repairs can be costly if ignored.

  1. Electrical System Failures: Modern Car Problems

Modern vehicles rely heavily on electronic components, and electrical system failures can cause serious breakdowns. Issues with the starter motor, alternator, or fuses can leave you unable to start your car.

How to Reduce Electrical Failures

  • Check the center console for error messages and warning lights
  • Inspect your alternator at every maintenance session
  • Keep a portable battery charger in case of unexpected failures
  1. Clutch Problems (Manual Vehicles Only)

Clutch failure is a common issue in manual transmission vehicles. If you struggle to shift gears, hear grinding noises, or notice a burning smell, your clutch may be worn out.

How to Avoid Clutch Issues

  • Avoid excessive clutch riding and unnecessary gear shifting
  • Schedule regular checkups with a trusted mechanic
  • Listen for changes in how the clutch engages—if shifting becomes rough, get it inspected

While car breakdowns are sometimes unavoidable, regular maintenance and early detection can prevent many issues. By keeping an eye on warning signs, conducting routine vehicle checks, and knowing what to do in an emergency, you can stay safe on the road and avoid costly repairs.

The most common questions about roadside assistance

Norman Towing: 24/7 Emergency Roadside Assistance in Toronto & GTA

At Norman Towing, we ensure that no driver is ever left stranded. Whether you need fuel delivery, a jump-start for a dead battery, flat tire services, or towing to a nearby mechanic, our expert team is always ready to assist. 

We provide fast, reliable, and professional roadside assistance across the Greater Toronto Area and Southern Ontario, handling everything from winching services and accident recovery to heavy-duty towing and private property towing. When emergencies happen, you can trust Norman Towing to get you back on the road safely and efficiently!

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How to Know if Your Car Battery is Dead: Key Signs and Solutions

How to Know if Your Car Battery is Dead: Key Signs and Solutions

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Car Breakdown Solutions Roadside assistance

A dead car battery can leave you stranded unexpectedly, but understanding the warning signs of a failing battery can help you avoid roadside troubles. From dim headlights and a slow engine crank to a check engine light, there are many indicators that your car’s battery life is nearing its end. In this guide, we explain key signs and causes of a dead battery as well as how to keep your battery in top shape to prevent inconvenient breakdowns.

Weak Car Battery Symptoms: How to Know Your Car Battery is Dead

Recognizing the signs of a weak or failing battery can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns. Here is a list of weak car battery symptoms to look out for:

  • Slow Engine Cranking: When the engine cranking is slow, or it struggles to start, this often points to a weak battery or bad battery connections on the positive and negative terminals.
  • Dim Lights and Weak Electrical Accessories: Dim headlights, dome light, and power windows that are sluggish suggest the battery isn’t supplying sufficient electrical energy to essential electrical components.
  • Dashboard Warning Lights: A battery warning light or dashboard check engine light can indicate issues with either the battery or alternator.
  • Clicks When Turning the Key: Multiple clicks when starting up typically signal either a bad starter motor or low battery voltage. This can be due to loose battery cables or even a bad alternator failing to charge the battery properly.

Watching for these common signs of battery breakage and having regular battery maintenance checks can keep you prepared while services from an auto shop or tow truck provider can assist if a complete failure occurs.

Do You Require Roadside Assistance?

The Causes of Dead Auto Batteries

Knowing what can cause a dead car battery helps in taking preventive measures:

Battery Age and Condition

As automotive batteries age, their internal elements degrade, leading to reduced voltage and lower energy capacity. An older battery will struggle to hold a charge, resulting in obvious signs like dim dashboard lights and weak electrical components. Regular checks on battery health can help avoid unexpected issues.

Extreme Temperatures

Cold climates can reduce battery efficiency, while high temperatures increase the chance of battery fluid evaporation. In extreme cold, a battery’s cold cranking amps are reduced, making it harder for the battery to produce the needed mechanical energy for engine start. Vehicles left unused for an extended period are especially susceptible to these effects, requiring a battery service check in extreme conditions.

Loose Connections and Corrosion

Loose or corroded battery connectors disrupt the electrical flow from the battery to essential vehicle parts. This can lead to electrical issues, from dim dashboard lights to sluggish power windows. Regularly cleaning battery terminals with a battery cleaning solution and checking the battery clamp helps maintain the battery in position and ensures strong connections.

Car Battery Boost & Jump Start Services

How to Test and Maintain Your Automobile Battery

Regular battery maintenance is essential to prevent unexpected failures:

  • Check Battery Voltage: Test your current battery voltage; anything below 12 volts can indicate a bad car battery. Use a battery charger or voltmeter for accuracy, especially in cold temperatures or after an extended idle period.
  • Inspect Battery Terminals and Connections: Over time, battery terminal corrosion can disrupt power flow. Clean battery connectors with a battery terminal cleaning solution or wire brush. Secure the positive terminal and ensure no loose battery cables.
  • Monitor Fluid Levels: Conventional batteries use sulfuric acid; low fluid levels can signal leaks or battery acid corrosion. Inspect regularly to prevent issues.
  • Invest in a Jumper Cable Kit: Keep jumper cables ready for emergencies. Secure the black alligator clip to an unpainted metal surface for safety.

How Long Should It Take to Charge a Weak Car Battery?

Charging a weak car battery depends on the method and driving conditions. Typically, driving at highway speeds for around 10-15 minutes can provide a partial charge, as the alternator generates sufficient power during consistent, high-speed driving.

However, for a fully depleted battery, achieving a complete charge will usually require several hours with a battery charger. This method ensures the battery reaches its full capacity safely, as chargers are designed to provide a steady and optimal current compared to brief charging intervals while driving.

Do You Need Help Jump-Starting Your Car?

When Should I Call Roadside Assistance for a Car Battery Check-Up?

A persistently failing car battery requires more than a quick jump-start to get you back on the road. Here’s when it’s time to consider professional assistance:

1. Multiple Warning Signs

If you notice several warning indicators like a flickering battery warning light, dimmed headlights, or a slow engine crank, it’s a sign that your battery health might be in critical condition. These issues, especially when combined with electrical component failures like power window failure or weak dashboard lights, suggest that a jump-start alone will not resolve the problem.

2. Frequent Jump-Starts Without Lasting Power

Needing repeated jump-starts is a strong indicator that your battery’s ability to hold a charge has been compromised, potentially due to battery connector corrosion, loose cables, or a damaged alternator. In this case, even after a jump, the battery will die again within a short period or show minimal power output, meaning it requires immediate repair or replacement.

3. Failing in Extreme Temperatures

If your battery is unable to start the vehicle in cold temperatures or overheats during high temperatures, it has lost its resilience to environmental conditions. Batteries that struggle in colder climates or during extreme heat often have diminished cold cranking amps and could be at the end of their service life.

4. Battery Leaks or Corrosion

If you notice battery acid leaks or heavy corrosion on battery terminals and connectors, it can pose a safety hazard. Leaks often indicate internal damage that requires a replacement.

5. Inconsistent Battery Health Indicators

If your battery warning light frequently turns on or off or if you experience voltage fluctuations, it’s best to call a professional. This can indicate issues with the alternator or battery that could worsen without immediate attention.

6. Recent Vehicle Modifications or Accessory Additions

If you’ve recently added new accessories or electronics to your car, these can be overtaxing the battery. Professionals can assess whether your current battery can handle the added load or if an upgrade is required to avoid future breakdowns.

Call for Help

If you’re facing repeated battery failures, Norman Towing’s roadside assistance is invaluable. We offer battery replacement services and emergency roadside help to get you back on the road safely, saving you from the hassle of being stranded due to a dead battery. Our team provides prompt service, assessing and addressing battery issues on-site and offering a quick solution if replacement is necessary.

Towing and Jump Start Assistance

Norman Towing: 24/7 Emergency Towing and Roadside Assistance in Toronto and the GTA

Norman Towing provides 24/7 emergency towing and roadside assistance across Toronto and the GTA. With services like fuel delivery, battery jump-starts, lockout help, and heavy-duty towing, Norman Towing is ready for any roadside need. 

Our well-equipped fleet can handle a range of vehicle types, from motorcycles to commercial trucks, ensuring safe transport and timely support. Whether you’re dealing with a flat tire or a dead battery, our professional team aims to get you back on the road as quickly as possible.

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Locked Out of Your Car? Here’s What to Do

Locked Out of Your Car? Here’s What to Do

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Locksmith Roadside assistance

Getting locked out of your car is one of the most frustrating and inconvenient experiences any driver can face. Whether it’s during daytime hours or in the middle of the night, the situation can quickly turn stressful, especially if you’re in an unfamiliar location or on a tight schedule. In this article, we explain the best ways to handle a car lockout and how to prevent it from happening in the future.

What Should I Do If I Get Locked Out of My Car?

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

First, take a moment to evaluate your surroundings and your situation. Are you in a safe area, and do you have your phone with you? If you’re in an unsafe or unfamiliar location, focus on getting to a secure place while seeking help.

2. Check for Alternative Access

Sometimes, manual locks or the unlock button on the inside of the car might still be accessible. If you have a keyless entry system, try using any backup methods your vehicle offers, like a mobile app or key card for access.

3. Contact Roadside Assistance

If you have roadside assistance through your insurance company, auto club, or a subscription service, this is the easiest option. They can send a professional to unlock your car safely and often within a short period of time. Many people with extended roadside protection aren’t aware that this benefit includes lockout services.

Roadside Assistance Services

4. Call an Auto Locksmith

If you don’t have roadside assistance, your next best option is to call an auto locksmith. These professionals use specialized tools, like inflatable wedges and other auto entry tools, to unlock your car without damaging the locking mechanism or auto glass. They’re also the most reliable option for cars with advanced locking systems or keyless entry.

Expert Lockout Services

5. Use Emergency Services in Urgent Situations

If you’re locked out in a dangerous area or during bad weather, consider contacting emergency services. They can assist you or help you find immediate roadside support. Your safety should always come first.

Emergency Towing Services

Assistance with Vehicle Lockouts: Can I Unlock My Car Myself?

If you’re locked out, your first instinct might be to try unlocking your car using makeshift tools like a wire coat hanger or a credit card. However, these methods can cause costly damage to your car’s door, weather stripping, or locking mechanism, leaving you with an expensive trip to an auto body shop.

Many people are tempted to use the coat hanger method or attempt to use a slip knot, but these DIY options are only viable for older cars with manual locks. Modern vehicles are equipped with complex locking systems, making these techniques ineffective and even dangerous. Amateurs without experience can cause serious damage in a short period of time.

5 Key Benefits of Fast-Response Vehicle Lockout Services

1. Speedy Assistance in a Difficult Situation

One of the most significant advantages of a fast-response vehicle lockout service is how quickly they can reach your location. Instead of waiting for hours or trying dangerous options to pry open your door, professionals will arrive promptly and resolve the issue.

2. Damage-Free Unlocking

Attempting to open your car yourself using DIY methods can result in costly damage. A professional will use non-invasive techniques like inflatable wedge kits or an airbag pump wedge to unlock your car safely without harming the vehicle’s exterior, automatic locking system, or auto glass replacement needs.

3. Access to Expert Locksmiths

By using a locksmith service, you benefit from the knowledge of experienced people who understand how to work with various types of vehicles, including those with complex automatic locking or auto manufacturer security systems. Expert locksmiths can also assist with commercial vehicles or cars with advanced auto theft issue protections, ensuring a safe and effective resolution.

4. Suitable for Numerous Vehicles

A fast-response lockout service can handle numerous vehicles, from compact cars to commercial vehicles, regardless of the make or model. Whether you’re driving a basic car or a luxury vehicle with high-tech systems, they are trained to unlock it safely and without damage.

5. Bonus of Roadside Assistance

Many customers with roadside assistance programs have the added bonus of lockout services being covered under their auto insurance policies. This means you can get back into your car without worrying about the cost of hiring a professional. In the event of roadside assistance coverage, you won’t even need to pay out of pocket for the service, making it an affordable and convenient solution.

What Are The Best Roadside Assistance Memberships In Canada?

How to Prevent Future Lockouts

Here are some tips to keep you from getting locked out in the future:

  • Use a spare key: Keep a spare key with a trusted friend, family member, or in a secure location on your property.
  • Routine key checks: Get into the habit of checking your keys before closing the door, especially if you use a keyless entry system.
  • Consider smart key technology: Modern vehicles offer auto unlock features or apps that allow you to unlock your car using your smartphone.
  • Store your fob safely: Place your key fob in a consistent, easily accessible spot to avoid misplacing it.

Professional Assistance for Locked Vehicles: Frequently Asked Questions

When should I call a professional to unlock my car?

If you’re unable to unlock your car using safe methods or don’t have a spare key, it’s best to contact a professional locksmith or a roadside assistance service. Attempting to open the car yourself may cause damage.

How much does it cost to have a professional unlock my car?

The cost of unlocking a car typically ranges from $50 to $150, depending on the location, time of day (emergency or after-hours service), and the complexity of the lock. Some roadside assistance programs cover these fees.

Here is an overview of the locksmith charges: 

  • Hourly rate $50 – $100
  • After-hours rates $75 – $125
  • Trip charge $2/KM
  • Car key unlocking $50 – $100

Can roadside assistance unlock my car? 

Yes, most roadside assistance programs, including those offered by companies like CAA or insurance providers, include vehicle lockout services. If you have a membership, this may be a free or discounted service.

How long does it take for a professional to unlock a car? 

A professional locksmith or roadside technician can typically unlock a car in 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the vehicle’s make and model and the locking system involved.

Can a locksmith unlock all types of vehicles? 

Yes, professional locksmiths are trained to unlock most types of vehicles, including cars with traditional keys, keyless entry systems, and smart key technology.

Will unlocking my car damage the vehicle? 

A trained professional uses specialized tools and techniques to unlock vehicles without causing damage. However, attempting to unlock the vehicle on your own or using improper tools could result in damage to the locking mechanism or window seals.

What should I do if my keys are locked in the trunk?

If your keys are locked in the trunk, most locksmiths and roadside technicians can gain access to the trunk through the interior of the vehicle. If this is not possible, they may be able to bypass the trunk lock directly.

What information will a locksmith need to unlock my car?

The locksmith may ask for proof of vehicle ownership, such as registration or insurance documents, and a valid ID to confirm that you are the vehicle’s owner before unlocking it.

Do insurance policies cover car lockout services?

Some auto insurance policies include lockout services or reimburse the cost as part of roadside assistance coverage. It’s best to check your policy details to see if this applies.

The Most Common Questions About Roadside Assistance

Norman Towing: Professional Towing Services in Toronto

At Norman Towing, we provide 24/7 professional towing services across Richmond Hill and the Greater Toronto Area, ensuring fast and reliable assistance whenever you need it. From emergency towing services to fuel delivery, flatbed towing, and car lockout assistance, our expert team is ready to help in any roadside situation. Whether your vehicle needs a jump start, flat tire repair, or a tow to the nearest auto body shop, we’ve got you covered with prompt, damage-free services.

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