What to do if your engine breaks down

If your engine breaks down, stay calm, signal and steer to a safe spot off the roadway, switch on hazard lights, place emergency triangles if you have them, and call roadside assistance or emergency services if you’re in a dangerous location; shut the engine off immediately for overheating or low oil pressure warnings, and only attempt basic checks if it’s safe. This guide explains what to do in the moment, how to interpret warning lights, and the safest way to get help and prevent future breakdowns.

Immediate safety steps while driving

When an engine loses power or stalls, your priority is to maintain control and get to a safe place without creating a hazard for yourself or others. The steps below help you navigate those first seconds and minutes.

• Keep a firm grip on the wheel and gently steer toward the shoulder, an exit, or a safe turnout. Avoid abrupt lane changes.
• Activate hazard lights immediately; use your turn signal as you move over. If you can’t reach the shoulder, stop as far right as possible, keeping wheels turned away from traffic.
• Expect heavier steering and reduced braking assist; both still work, but you’ll need more effort. Downshift (manual) or shift to Neutral and coast if the engine stalls.
• Once stopped, set the parking brake, keep hazards on, and, if you have them, deploy reflective triangles or flares well behind your vehicle (about 50–100 feet in city areas, 100–200 feet on highways).
• Stay inside with seatbelts on if you’re near traffic. If you must exit (e.g., smoke or fire), do so on the side away from traffic and move behind a barrier.
• On high-speed roads where you’re stuck in a live lane, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately and keep your seatbelt on; do not stand in front of or behind the vehicle.

These actions reduce the risk of secondary collisions and position you to get help quickly without escalating the hazard.

What dashboard warnings mean—and when to stop now

Not all warning lights are equal. Some mean “service soon,” while others demand an immediate shutdown to avoid catastrophic damage or fire risk. Here’s how to triage common alerts.

• Red oil pressure light: Stop as soon as safely possible and shut off the engine. Running without oil pressure can destroy the engine within seconds.
• Red temperature light or gauge in the red: Pull over promptly, turn off the engine. Do not open the radiator cap while hot. Let the engine cool fully before checking coolant.
• Battery/charging light: The alternator or belt may have failed. Conserve electricity (turn off HVAC, infotainment) and pull over soon; the car can die when the battery depletes.
• Flashing check engine light (misfire): Reduce speed and avoid hard acceleration. If flashing persists, pull over to prevent catalyst damage and potential fire risk.
• Brake warning (red) or severe ABS fault: Stop carefully; if the pedal feels soft or sinks, pull over immediately.
• For EVs: High-voltage or battery thermal warnings require an immediate safe stop; keep distance from the vehicle if there’s smoke and call emergency services.

Treat red warnings and flashing check-engine lights as urgent; continuing to drive can turn a fixable issue into a major repair—or a roadside emergency.

Quick checks you can do safely at the roadside

If you’re safely off the road and conditions permit, a few simple checks may clarify what went wrong or help you restart. Only attempt these if you’re away from traffic and the vehicle is not smoking or leaking fuel.

• Observe and note: Any unusual smells (burning, fuel, sweet coolant), smoke, new noises, or leaks under the car.
• Gauges and messages: Recheck warnings; photograph the dash in case lights clear later.
• Fluids: Look for obvious coolant or oil puddles. Do not open the coolant reservoir while hot. If you have oil and know how to check, verify level after a cool-down.
• Belts and hoses: If accessible, a missing/broken serpentine belt can explain loss of charging, overheating, and heavy steering.
• Battery: Check for loose or corroded terminals. If you have a booster pack and no fuel or overheating warnings, a jump-start may help a no-crank condition.
• Fuses: A blown fuel pump or ignition fuse can prevent starting; consult the owner’s manual before replacing with the correct amperage only.
• Attempt a restart: Shift to Park/Neutral, press the brake/clutch fully, and try once or twice. For push-button cars, hold the button longer if the engine didn’t fully stop earlier. Don’t crank repeatedly for more than 10 seconds at a time.
• Fuel reality check: Confirm the gauge, recent fill-ups, and range. Running out of fuel is common and easily misdiagnosed.
• Hybrids/EVs: Do not touch orange high-voltage cables. Try a “power cycle” (vehicle Off for several minutes, then On) and check for 12V battery issues, which can mimic HV faults.

If anything looks dangerous—fuel smell, active leaks, smoke—move away and call for help. When in doubt, wait for a professional rather than risking injury or further damage.

Special situations

On a highway, bridge, or tunnel

High-speed and confined environments raise the stakes. Prioritize visibility and swift notification to authorities to prevent collisions.

• If you can coast to a shoulder or emergency bay, do so and angle wheels away from traffic.
• Use hazards, keep seatbelts on, and remain inside unless there’s immediate danger.
• Call 911 or the posted tunnel/bridge emergency number; many facilities have rapid incident response units and cameras.
• In tunnels, use emergency phones/boxes if available and follow posted instructions; evacuate only if directed or if there is smoke/fire.

Early notification often brings quick lane protection and towing, dramatically improving safety on limited-escape routes.

Railroad crossing or intersection

If a stall occurs where cross-traffic or trains pass, speed is critical.

• At a rail crossing, evacuate everyone immediately and move at least 30 meters (100 feet) away at a 45-degree angle from the tracks in the direction of the train’s approach.
• Call the railroad’s posted emergency number with the crossing ID (on the blue sign) and dial 911.
• At intersections, push the vehicle only if it’s safe and there are enough helpers; otherwise, turn on hazards and call for assistance.

Never try to beat a train or troubleshoot on the tracks; distance and quick calls save lives.

At night or in severe weather

Low visibility and poor traction amplify risks for stranded vehicles.

• Keep hazards on; use road flares or LED beacons if you can deploy them safely.
• In heavy rain/fog/snow, place triangles farther back for earlier warning.
• Stay warm or cool using climate control sparingly if the engine runs; if not, layer up or seek shelter safely. Beware of carbon monoxide—don’t idle with a blocked exhaust (snow).

Visibility aids and cautious positioning help other drivers avoid you while you wait for help.

Electric and hybrid vehicles

EVs and hybrids behave differently during failures and involve high-voltage systems requiring extra caution.

• If you see battery, HV, or isolation fault warnings—or smell smoke—pull over immediately, exit, and move away. Call emergency services.
• Do not touch orange cables or damaged components. Treat submerged or crash-damaged EVs with extreme caution.
• For a no-ready-state condition, the 12V battery is a common culprit; a safe jump-start of the 12V (per the manual) may restore systems.
• Request a flatbed tow and specify EV/hybrid experience. Some models prohibit wheel-lift towing.

Because EV incidents can escalate unpredictably, distance and professional handling are best practice.

Calling for help and arranging a tow

Clear information speeds response and ensures the right equipment arrives. Whether you call roadside assistance, a tow company, or 911, have key details ready.

• Report your precise location: mile markers, exit numbers, GPS coordinates, landmarks, travel direction, and lane position.
• Describe the vehicle (make, model, color, plate) and the problem (warnings shown, smoke/leaks, crash/no crash).
• Use manufacturer roadside assistance (often included under warranty), your insurer’s roadside coverage, a motor club, or local towing. In unsafe spots, call 911 first.
• Request the right tow: flatbed for AWD/EVs, dollies as needed; ask for a low-clearance truck for garages.
• Share your destination shop or ask for the nearest qualified service center; for EVs, choose an authorized service facility.
• Keep passengers safe: arrange rideshares or transport if the tow truck can’t accommodate everyone.

Accurate details reduce delays, prevent improper towing, and protect your vehicle from further damage en route.

Preventing future breakdowns

Most engine failures give warning signs. A disciplined maintenance routine and a small preparedness kit can keep minor issues from stranding you.

• Follow the manufacturer’s service schedule for oil changes, coolant, transmission fluid, filters, and spark plugs.
• Inspect belts, hoses, and coolant level periodically; replace aging batteries proactively (often 3–5 years).
• Watch for early symptoms: hard starts, rough idle, overheating in traffic, flickering lights, fluid spots under the car.
• Keep a roadside kit: triangles/LED beacons, high-visibility vest, basic tools, gloves, flashlight, portable jump-starter, water, and a phone charger.
• Maintain adequate fuel; don’t rely on “0 miles” range. For EVs, plan charging with a buffer in extreme temperatures.
• Ensure you have active roadside coverage and that emergency numbers are stored in your phone and vehicle.

Preparation won’t prevent every failure, but it dramatically reduces risk and inconvenience when problems arise.

After the incident: repairs and documentation

Once you’re safely off the road and the vehicle is at a shop, a few steps can streamline diagnosis, control costs, and protect your rights.

• Describe exactly what happened (speed, conditions, noises, smells, warning lights). Share photos or videos you took.
• Ask for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and a written estimate before authorizing major work.
• Retain replaced parts and keep all invoices. Confirm parts and labor warranties.
• Check for recalls and technical service bulletins using your VIN on the NHTSA website (United States) or your country’s equivalent.
• If the vehicle is under warranty or recently serviced for related issues, contact the dealer or service provider first.
• For insurance with roadside coverage, submit towing receipts; for breakdowns caused by road hazards, ask about comprehensive or mechanical breakdown coverage where applicable.

Good documentation helps ensure accurate repairs, fair costs, and potential reimbursement where eligible.

Summary

Engine breakdowns are stressful, but a calm, safety-first response makes all the difference: get to a safe location, make yourself visible, heed critical warnings, and call for appropriate help. Avoid risky roadside tinkering, especially with hot cooling systems or high-voltage components. Arrange proper towing, document the incident, and follow through with informed repairs and preventive maintenance to minimize the chance of a repeat emergency.

How do I tell if my engine is blown?

Symptoms of a blown engine include strange noises like knocking or rattling, excessive smoke (blue or white) from the exhaust, loss of power and rough idle, engine stalling or difficulty starting, and fluids mixing like oil in the coolant or vice versa. The “Check Engine” light may also illuminate, and you might notice poor fuel efficiency or low levels of oil or coolant.
 
Performance & Operation

• Loss of power: The engine feels sluggish, especially when accelerating or going uphill. 
• Rough idle: The engine runs unevenly or vibrates significantly. 
• Engine stalling: The car may unexpectedly shut off. 
• Difficulty starting: The engine struggles to start or won’t start at all. 

Sounds & Vibrations 

• Strange noises: Listen for loud knocking, rattling, or banging sounds coming from the engine.
• Hissing or popping: These sounds can also indicate a serious internal problem.

Exhaust & Smoke

• Excessive smoke: Opens in new tabBlue smoke suggests burning oil, while white smoke indicates a coolant leak. 
• Black smoke: Opens in new tabThis can signal an overly rich fuel mixture or other engine running issues. 

Fluids & Leaks

• Oil and coolant mixing: Opens in new tabCheck the coolant for oil or the oil for coolant, which often appears milky. 
• Oil or coolant leaks: Opens in new tabOil might be coating the underside of the engine, and coolant could be low with no visible external leaks. 

Other Signs

• Overheating: The engine temperature gauge consistently reads high. 
• Low or contaminated oil: Oil levels might be low, or the oil may have a milky appearance. 
• Check Engine Light: This warning light is a significant clue that the engine needs inspection. 
• Poor fuel efficiency: The vehicle may consume more fuel than usual. 

What to do if an engine breaks down?

If your car’s engine fails while driving, stay calm, engage your hazard lights, and steer to a safe location to pull over. Once stopped, try shifting to neutral and restarting the engine; if that doesn’t work, you’ll need to call for roadside assistance or a tow truck to get your car to a mechanic for repairs. 
During Engine Failure

1. Stay Calm and Control the Vehicle: Keep your eyes on the road and look for a place to pull over safely. 
2. Use Hazard Lights: Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to your situation. 
3. Attempt to Restart (If Possible): You may be able to put the car in neutral and attempt to restart the engine, especially if the ignition key moved to the accessory position, according to Consumer Reports. 
4. Steer to Safety: If the engine won’t restart, apply the brakes gradually and steer to the side of the road. 
   • Brake Effort: Understand that the power brakes and power steering will stop working, so you’ll need to use more force to stop and steer. 
   • Use Momentum: You may need to use the car’s remaining momentum to pull off the road to a safer location. 

After You’ve Pulled Over

1. Switch Off the Engine: Opens in new tabEnsure the engine is fully off to prevent further damage. 
2. Contact Roadside Assistance: Opens in new tabIf you have a service, call for assistance and provide your exact location. 
3. Call for a Tow: Opens in new tabIf you don’t have roadside assistance, contact a trusted friend or family member who can help coordinate towing services, or call for a tow yourself. 
4. Get to a Mechanic: Opens in new tabHave your car towed to a trusted mechanic to determine the cause of the failure and if it’s worth repairing. 

Can I trade in a car that needs a new engine?

Yes, you can trade in a car that needs a new engine, but it may significantly affect its value. Here are a few points to consider: Value Reduction: Cars with major issues, like a needed engine replacement, will typically be valued much lower than similar models in good condition.

How to get rid of a car with a blown engine?

You can either list it with an honest write-up on fb marketplace for repair or parts, or sell it to a scrap yard (right now about $400), or you can donate it. I’ve sent a few to the Good News Garage. Either the scrapyard or charity will arrange a tow to pick it up.