A Local's Roadside Guide

What to Do If Your Car Breaks Down Near Carbondale: A Local's Roadside Guide

Car trouble can strike at the most inconvenient time on your way to work, during a road trip, or even while running errands across Carbondale. Knowing what to do in the moment can make all the difference between a quick fix and a stressful situation. This guide walks you through practical, step-by-step actions to take when your vehicle breaks down, along with local resources you can count on.

1. Move to a Safe Location

If your car starts losing power, steer safely to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot. In Carbondale, that might mean pulling over near Route 13, University Avenue, or Main Street areas where help is easily accessible. Turn on your hazard lights, set your parking brake, and stay inside your vehicle until you're sure it's safe to exit.

For emergency support, learn more about our roadside assistance services in Carbondale.

2. Call for Professional Help

Once you're in a safe spot, it's time to get assistance. Your roadside plan or dealership support can handle towing, jump-starts, or tire changes. Ward Chrysler Center partners with local towing providers to get you help fast, wherever you are in Southern Illinois.

If your vehicle needs repairs after being towed, you can schedule certified service at our Carbondale Service Center, where factory-trained technicians handle everything from diagnostics to full repairs.

Schedule service at Ward Chrysler Center for expert care once your vehicle is towed.

3. Know Your Coverage Options

Many Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles come with complimentary roadside assistance for a specific term. Even if yours doesn't, extended protection plans are available and can include towing, rental car coverage, and repair reimbursement.

Review your warranty details or consider upgrading your coverage for extra peace of mind before the next unexpected breakdown.

Explore vehicle warranty and protection plans in Carbondale to keep yourself covered in emergencies.

4. Prepare a Roadside Emergency Kit

Every Carbondale driver should have a well-stocked roadside emergency kit in their trunk. Include essentials like jumper cables, a flashlight, bottled water, a reflective triangle, and a first-aid kit. You can find many of these items at local auto stores or order Mopar® accessories directly from our dealership.

Order Mopar parts and accessories online to keep your car prepared for the unexpected.

5. Stay Calm and Wait for Help

If you're stranded at night or during bad weather, stay in your locked vehicle and wait for assistance to arrive. Avoid accepting help from unmarked vehicles or unknown individuals. Carbondale police and local responders are trained to assist stranded drivers safely and quickly.

For added peace of mind, ensure your roadside assistance number is saved in your phone.

FAQs

Q: What's included with roadside assistance from Ward Chrysler Center?

A: Services include towing, flat tire changes, battery jump-starts, and lockout assistance.

Q: How do I request roadside assistance near Carbondale?

A: Call Ward Chrysler Center at (618) 268-3348 or visit our roadside assistance page for instructions.

Q: Do extended warranties include roadside coverage?

A: Many plans! Learn more on our warranty and protection center page.

Q: Can I get my vehicle towed directly to your dealership?

A: Yes, our service team accepts tows directly. Once it arrives, you can schedule service online for fast repairs.

Stay Safe with Ward Chrysler Center

When the unexpected happens, you can rely on Ward Chrysler Center for quick, professional roadside assistance in Carbondale and throughout Southern Illinois. From towing coordination to repairs, our team is always ready to help you get back on the road safely.

Call (618) 268-3348 or visit our roadside assistance page for help today.