Roadside guides you can use.
Short driver-focused walkthroughs of the breakdown jobs every Corpus Christi driver should know. Each guide comes with step-by-step instructions and a clear line on when to stop and call a tow.
What roadside fixes can you handle yourself?
Change a flat tire on the side of the road
The difference between a 20-minute shoulder stop and an hour on the phone with a tow company is knowing where the spare and jack live before you need them.
What to do when stuck in sand or mud
Padre Island, Mustang Island, and the National Seashore eat vehicles weekly. The first thing to do is stop making it worse.
Prepare your vehicle for a tow
A few minutes of prep before the tow truck arrives saves time, avoids damage, and makes the whole call go faster.
Car will not start - what to check first
Before calling for a tow, there are five things to check. Most of the time the car is fine and you just need a boost, a fuse, or a key that actually talks to the transponder.
Flatbed vs wheel-lift towing: which is safer?
Both are legitimate tow methods, but the wrong one can wreck your car. Here is the plain-English answer to which method belongs on which vehicle, and when you should refuse a wheel-lift even if the operator says it is fine.
Can a tow truck refuse to take my car in Texas?
Yes - but only in specific situations defined by Texas law and tow-operator policy. Here is exactly when an operator can walk away, what your rights are, and what to do if you are refused service in Corpus Christi.
How to verify a Corpus Christi tow company is licensed
Anyone can buy a flatbed and a phone number. Verifying a tow operator's TDLR license and insurance takes 5 minutes and protects you from the predatory operators that make local news every year.
When should you stop and call a tow truck?
Six signs that the problem is past DIY. Turn the system off and pick up the phone - running a system with these issues turns cheap repairs into expensive replacements.
- You are on the shoulder of a busy highway
SPID (SH-358), I-37, US-181, and the Crosstown shoulders are among the most dangerous places to stand in Corpus Christi. Stay in the vehicle with seatbelts on and call for a tow.
- The vehicle was in any collision
Even light collisions can damage suspension, brakes, or the steering rack in ways you cannot see. Drive it after an accident only if law enforcement clears the scene and the vehicle is visibly intact.
- Ignition or dashboard is smoking
Electrical fires can progress from smoke to flames in under a minute. Pull over if you can, turn the engine off, get out, and call 911 plus a tow.
- Smoke or steam from under the hood
Overheating or a serious oil/coolant leak. Continuing to drive can cause a seized engine - a $4,000+ repair. Pull over safely and call for a tow.
- Vehicle is AWD, 4WD, or electric and the drive wheels will not spin freely
Dragging an AWD or EV on a wheel lift destroys the drivetrain. Always flatbed - no exceptions. Tell the dispatcher your make and model when you call.
- Water, mud, or sand up to the door sills
Water-damaged electrical systems start unpredictable fires. Do not try to start the car. Flatbed out of the terrain, tow to a shop for a proper assessment.
What towing laws and safety resources are available?
Texas Towing Law (Occupations Code Chapter 2308)
The Texas statute that governs towing rights, non-consent tows, signage requirements, and release procedures, regulated by TDLR.
Texas DPSTexas Department of Public Safety - Highway Patrol
For freeway incidents and crash reporting on SPID, I-37, and US-181. Call 911 for emergencies.
TxDMVTexas DMV - Vehicle Registration & Abandoned Vehicles
TxDMV guidance on vehicle registration and the abandoned-vehicle process in Texas.
City of Corpus ChristiCCPD Police Auto Pound
City of Corpus Christi police impound at 5485 Greenwood Dr. Releases 8am to 5pm, 7 days a week. Bring photo ID, proof of insurance, and registration.
AAAAAA Texas - Roadside Membership
Motor club serving the Coastal Bend for standalone roadside coverage.
Still stranded? Call dispatch.
If the guide didn't get you moving, we can. Live 24/7 dispatch, flat-rate quote, average arrival 30-45 minutes.