Breaking down on the side of the road is never part of anyone’s plan. Whether you're headed to work, running errands, or taking a weekend trip, a roadside emergency can quickly turn your day upside down. While some breakdowns happen without warning, many are caused by issues that could have been avoided with regular maintenance and a little preparation.
Here are six of the most common roadside problems and what you can do to prevent them.
1. Dead Batteries
This is easily one of the most frequent calls we get. A battery doesn’t always give much warning before it fails, especially in Texas, where hot weather takes a toll on battery life. You may notice the engine turning over slower than usual or the dashboard lights dimming when you start the car. In other cases, there are no symptoms at all until the battery gives out completely.
To avoid getting stranded, have your battery tested once a year, especially if it’s more than three years old. Replacing it before it fails completely is a simple way to save yourself from being stuck in a parking lot or on the side of the road.
2. Flat Tires and Blowouts
Sharp objects, potholes, and worn-out tread all contribute to tire failures. A slow leak might go unnoticed until you’re driving, while a blowout can happen in a split second. We’ve seen everything from nails picked up at construction sites to sidewall damage caused by hitting curbs too hard.
The best way to stay ahead of tire trouble is to check your pressure regularly and inspect the tread for uneven wear. Rotating your tires and keeping them properly inflated goes a long way toward preventing roadside issues. If you do run into a flat, having a properly inflated spare and the tools to change it can save you time and stress.
3. Overheating Engines
Overheating is especially common during Texas summers. It might start with a temperature gauge creeping up or steam coming from under the hood. Often, the cause is low coolant, a stuck thermostat, a faulty radiator fan, or a leaking hose.
If your engine overheats, it’s important to pull over immediately. Continuing to drive can cause serious damage, such as a blown head gasket or warped cylinder heads. Regular cooling system checks can prevent these emergencies before they happen. At Barsh Auto, we inspect hoses, pressure-test the system, and make sure your radiator and fans are in working order before temperatures start rising.
4. Lockouts
It happens more than you might think—keys locked in the car, lost entirely, or broken in the ignition. Modern key fobs are convenient but not immune to user error. Even with push-to-start systems, a dead battery in the fob or a sensor glitch can leave you stranded.
Keeping a spare key somewhere secure and accessible can prevent a lockout. Some newer vehicles offer phone apps or keyless entry backup codes. If you do get locked out, professional roadside assistance can usually get you back in quickly without damaging the car.
5. Running Out of Fuel
This one seems like it should never happen, but it does. Whether it’s misjudging how far you can go on “E” or forgetting to fill up before heading out of town, running out of gas is a surprisingly common reason for roadside calls.
Avoiding this issue is simple—don’t push the limits of your fuel tank, especially when traveling long distances or through rural areas. If your fuel gauge or sensor is unreliable, it’s worth checking and repairing it so you can avoid guessing games.
6. Alternator Failure
The alternator charges your battery and powers your vehicle’s electronics while the engine is running. If it starts to fail, you might see a battery warning light, dim headlights, or electrical glitches. In some cases, you’ll lose power completely while driving.
Alternator problems often come on slowly. If your battery keeps dying or the lights flicker at idle, it’s a good idea to have your charging system inspected. We test alternators as part of our electrical system checks, and catching problems early can help you avoid a costly tow later.
Barsh Auto – Roadside Problem Solvers in Conroe and New Waverly, TX
At Barsh Auto, we help drivers across Conroe and New Waverly stay ahead of unexpected breakdowns with trusted maintenance, expert repairs, and full roadside support. From jump-starts and flat tires to overheating and tow-ins, we’ve seen every type of roadside emergency, and we know how to help prevent them. Whether you need a pre-trip inspection, routine service, or quick towing when you’re stuck, our team is here to keep your vehicle dependable and road-ready.
Schedule your visit or call us for roadside assistance today. We’ve got your back, wherever the road takes you.
