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
Only attempt a tire change where you can work safely, with a suitable spare, tools and the vehicle’s instructions. A narrow highway shoulder is a reason to request assistance.
What to do when stuck in sand or mud
Stop trying to force the vehicle forward if the wheels are digging in. Before attempting a recovery, assess the tide, terrain, vehicle stability and everyone’s safety.
Prepare your vehicle for a tow
Prepare the details an operator needs and document the vehicle’s condition when it is safe to do so. Confirm the loading method and destination before the tow.
Car will not start - what to check first
Note what the vehicle does when you try to start it. Clear observations help a roadside provider decide what to check; they do not establish a diagnosis.
Flatbed vs wheel-lift towing: which is safer?
Confirm drivetrain, damage, clearance, and the owner's manual with the independent operator before they hook the vehicle.
Can a tow truck refuse to take my car in Texas?
An independent operator may decline unsafe or unlawful work. Chapter 2308 and TDLR cover consent and nonconsent tows. Call 911 if the location is unsafe.
How to verify a tow company is licensed
TDLR licenses the company, the operator, and the truck as separate records. Check each one in the public TDLR License Search, not one shared number.
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 damage the engine. Pull over safely and call for a tow.
- Vehicle is AWD, 4WD, or electric and the drive wheels will not spin freely
A wheel-lift can damage some AWD and EV drivetrains. Check the owner's manual for that vehicle, then confirm the method with the operator before the truck rolls. Give 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, a local operator can. The line takes calls 24/7, flat-rate quote.