Ape Towing & Roadside Assistance

Frequently Asked Question

FAQ

Click on the questions below to reveal each respective answer.

Light-duty towing is typically suitable for smaller vehicles such as compact cars, sedans, SUVs, and some light trucks. These towing jobs typically involve vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of up to 10,000 pounds.

Roadside assistance is a service provided by many automobile clubs, insurance companies, and vehicle manufacturers to help drivers when their vehicle breaks down or encounters problems while on the road. It typically includes services such as towing, jump-starting a dead battery, changing a flat tire, delivering fuel, and providing lockout assistance.

There are several ways to get roadside assistance:

  • Through your car insurance: Many insurance companies offer roadside assistance as an optional add-on to your policy.
  • From an automobile club: Organizations like AAA (American Automobile Association) offer roadside assistance memberships that provide coverage for various roadside emergencies.
  • Via your vehicle manufacturer: Some automakers include roadside assistance with the purchase of a new vehicle for a limited time.
  • As a standalone service: Some companies specialize in providing standalone roadside assistance plans that you can purchase separately.

You should rotate your tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, or as recommended in your vehicle’s manual. Regular tire rotation is crucial for tire longevity because it ensures even wear on all tires. When tires wear unevenly due to factors like weight distribution and alignment, they can become unsafe and need replacement sooner. Rotating them extends their lifespan, enhances traction, improves fuel efficiency, and ensures consistent performance, ultimately saving you money and maintaining road safety.

To safely change a flat tire, follow these key steps and use essential tools. First, park on a flat surface and engage the parking brake. Retrieve the lug wrench, car jack, and spare tire from your vehicle. Loosen the lug nuts, lift the vehicle with the jack, and remove the flat tire. Install the spare tire, lower the vehicle, and securely tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern. Ensure all tools are stowed, check the spare tire’s pressure, and repair or replace the flat tire promptly. Regularly inspect your tires to prevent future flats and ensure road safety.

Tire replacement intervals depend on factors like tire type, driving habits, and road conditions. As a general guideline, tires should be changed every 6 years, even if they appear okay. However, signs, like worn tread depth (below 2/32 of an inch), uneven tread wear, cracks, bulges, or punctures, signal a need for immediate replacement. Regularly checking tire condition and consulting manufacturer recommendations in your vehicle’s manual helps ensure safety and optimal performance.

Roadside assistance for lockouts is a service offered by providers to assist drivers who are locked out of their vehicles. When a driver contacts their roadside assistance provider, a service technician is dispatched to the location. Response times vary but usually range from 15 to 45 minutes. Services typically include unlocking the vehicle, retrieving keys from inside, or providing a spare key if available. Some providers may also assist with broken or damaged locks. This service offers convenience and peace of mind for drivers facing lockout emergencies while on the road.

Roadside fuel delivery is a service that provides assistance to drivers who have run out of gas. When a driver contacts a fuel delivery service, they provide their location and fuel type. A service vehicle is dispatched with enough fuel to reach the stranded driver. Common fuel options include gasoline, diesel, and sometimes alternative fuels. Drivers may also have the choice of regular or premium fuel. This service is a convenient solution for those facing empty fuel tanks, ensuring they can quickly get back on the road without needing to find a nearby gas station.

When requesting fuel delivery, drivers should prioritize safety by ensuring they are in a well-lit, secure location away from traffic. Turn on hazard lights and communicate your exact location to the provider. Verify the identity of the service personnel upon arrival. To choose the right fuel delivery provider, consider factors like response time, coverage area, available fuel types, and customer reviews. Opt for reputable, licensed providers with 24/7 availability for peace of mind during roadside emergencies.

To safely jumpstart a vehicle’s dead battery, follow these steps: 1. Ensure both vehicles are turned off. 2. Connect the red (positive) jumper cable to the dead battery’s positive terminal, and then the other red end to the working battery’s positive terminal. 3. Attach the black (negative) jumper cable to the working battery’s negative terminal and the other black end to an unpainted metal surface on the dead car’s engine block. 4. Start the working car and let it run for a few minutes. 5. Attempt to start the dead car. Remove cables in reverse order. Carry jumper cables and safety gloves in your vehicle for emergencies.