Top 4WD problems you’re most likely to encounter

If you own a 4 Wheel Drive vehicle, you will know just how handy this feature can be when you need it most. Whether you enjoy regular adventures or simply find yourself in a bit of a tough spot, your 4WD can really save the day. Like any other part of your vehicle, however, it’s important to understand that problems can arise from time to time.
 

Indicator issues and signaling problems

If your 4WD system does not engage properly, you will notice an indicator light display inaccurate information on the dashboard. This needs to be corrected by a trained mechanic. If the indicator light blinks constantly, then it could mean that the gear has not shifted completely.
 

4WD stuck

Older 4WD vehicles can stay in 4WD mode while the engine is running. If this occurs, the indicator light will blink constantly. This can usually be solved by shutting off the vehicle’s engine and starting again. Another option is to drive your vehicle about 12 feet in reverse. You will also need to shift to drive in order to disengage the 4WD. If neither of these methods work, try running your vehicle in low mode. While you drive, run on two-wheel drive before turning the engine off. If nothing helps, you will need a skilled mechanic.
 

Shifter fork damage

The transfer shift work is responsible for moving the lever from 4WD to normal drive. Since there is a great deal of pressure, the shifter fork can become damaged, and this will cause the system to slip between normal and 4WD. The faulty or damaged shifter fork will need to be replaced by a professional.
 

Problems with the chassis

After enjoying at least a few adventures, your 4WD vehicle will most likely have encountered a fair bit of rough terrain. The chassis can crack due to this kind of use and, due to rain and moisture, rust can also take hold. Rust needs to be tended to sooner rather than later so that damage can be minimized. Once the problem area has been properly cleaned and repaired if necessary, it’s good to ask about rubberizing solutions to prevent future damage and subsequent 4WD problems.
 

Suspension problems

The suspension can also suffer if you drive your 4WD vehicle on hard roads regularly. This can result in chassis damage, and you should always be on the look out for mechanical problems. Parts that should be regularly inspected include nuts and bolts, the steering rack, and your shocks. If your shocks are worn or damaged, you will notice that you will feel those bumps! In addition, faulty shocks compromise the traction of your vehicle. In other words, the worse your shocks, the more your vehicle will bounce and the less it will stick to the road.

Remember, there is not much that you can do about wear and tear but you can make sure that you inspect your vehicle and watch out for signs of trouble. In addition, by choosing the right extended warranty for your 4WD vehicle, you can enjoy coverage and peace of mind. Call A-Protect at (416)-661-7444 for more information.
 

Why your BMW needs an extended warranty

There really is nothing quite like cruising around town in your luxurious BMW. Of course, every time you venture out, you run the risk of encountering several dangers. Even the most expensive high-end vehicles can break down from time to time and, no matter the vehicle, wear and tear are inevitable. If you are wondering whether or not to invest in an extended warranty, here are some reasons why you should.

 

Save money

If you have ever taken note of the repair or maintenance costs for even the slightest problem, you will know that a BMW is not the cheapest to maintain. Even the smallest parts can cost a fair bit and, if you don’t have the money right then and there, you won’t have use of your car until you can come up with the money. When your car is covered by a warranty, you can rest assured knowing that the parts and labor will be covered as per the terms of your warranty agreement. Rather than paying for repairs out of pocket, you will be covered by your warranty which can mean significant financial savings.

 

Protection

An extended warranty is much like a safety net and, if anything happens, you can rest assured that repair and maintenance needs will be covered (based on the package you choose). Many drivers admit that they don’t have money set aside in the event of repairs or for maintenance which means that one broken part can turn your life upside down. With a warranty, you can be sure that your BMW will be tended to promptly and by reputable professionals.

 

Other perks

There are also some other great perks like towing and rental car services that can be included or added to your warranty. Not having to pay to have your car towed is a real bonus. Not to mention the convenience of having the use of a rental vehicle while your car is being repaired. In some cases, the warranty provider might take care of the costs directly with the towing or rental car company. However, in most instances, policyholders need to file a claim, pay the fee, and they will be reimbursed. Either way, not having to pay for a rental or tow is always a bonus!

 

Proper maintenance

The best way to get the most out of any BMW is to make sure that it has been properly maintained. Regular services and part replacements are essential for keeping you on the road. It’s also far easier and quicker to have worn parts replaced rather than waiting for something to break as a result. When your BMW is covered by the right auto warranty, you need not worry about maintenance and repairs. All the more reason to file claims as and when needed rather than putting it off.

 

Peace of mind

When you know that your vehicle has been properly maintained, you can drive with fantastic confidence. In addition, when you get behind the wheel with the knowledge that your car is covered in the event of a breakdown, you have even more peace of mind. This is even more important when you are traveling with family and young children.

 

Auto warranties have so many benefits and they need not cost you an arm and a leg. Call A-Protect Warranty today on 1-866-660-6444 or (416) 661-7444 for expert advice and assistance finding the perfect plan to suit your needs and budget.

 

A thorough understanding of extended auto warranties

Whether you are planning on buying a used vehicle or your warranty on your once brand new vehicle is coming to an end, an extended warranty is surely on your mind. Of course, despite the fact that these kinds of auto warranties have become more popular and common, there are still so many vehicle owners who don’t know much about this form of coverage. In short, extended warranties are a type of financial protection in the event of a breakdown or unforeseen repairs.

 

New vehicle purchases usually include a fairly comprehensive warranty but, when it runs out, an extended warranty will provide the coverage and peace of mind you need in the event of a breakdown. Since vehicle repair costs are always on the rise, it’s easy to see why warranties are such an attractive financial option.

 

If you are planning on investing in an extended warranty, you should be prepared by asking yourself a few important questions. The first of which being whether or not your vehicle is currently covered by a warranty. If you already have coverage and it’s not about to run out any time soon, then you might only need to start shopping around for the future. If your warranty is about to expire or if it has already expired, then it certainly is time to find the best extended warranty for your car. If you don’t have a warranty, but you are planning on selling your car soon, then you might not want to invest in a warranty at this time. Instead, save your investment for your next set of wheels.

 

Another important point to consider is the reputation of the make and model of your vehicle. Some cars are known for being more reliable than others which means that they don’t break down quite as often. This will help you determine the best possible package to suit your needs and budget. Warranties more than pay for themselves under ordinary circumstances. When your car is less reliable than you may hope, a warranty certainly will help relieve you of financial troubles.

 

Never underestimate the importance of looking into the reputation of the warranty provider. Find out what other customers have to say and run plenty of online searches to find out the good as well as the bad. This is the best way to make an informed decision. A reputable warranty provider will also never shy away from explaining all the relevant terms and conditions.

 

Ask about the deductible and make sure that the representative explains everything to your satisfaction. Before you sign anything, you need to make sure that you understand all of your financial obligations and these are not limited to the cost of the warranty itself.

 

While you’re at it, you should also ask whether or not the warranty is transferable. A transferable warranty can be an incentive for potential buyers should you wish to sell your car. A transferable warranty will continue to cover the vehicle even after the sale, so the new owner has added peace of mind.

 

Finally, don’t forget that every warranty provider has their own terms and conditions as well as a procedure when it comes to filing a claim. In most, if not all cases, the vehicle owner needs to contact the warranty provider in order to file a claim. Once this is done, only then can the vehicle be towed or repaired. If you have any work done before filing a claim, you might be liable for all the costs. Warranty providers also usually work with a set list of repairers and towing companies which means that if you do not use the approved service, the work might not be covered. Make sure that you understand the full process involved in filing a claim before signing any agreements. Keep a copy of this procedure in your vehicle at all times too.

 

For extended auto warranties designed around your needs and budget, contact A-Protect Warranty at 1-866-660-6444 or (416) 661-7444.

 

An A-PROTECT Guide to Risk Management

Risk management definition:

The estimating or assessment of risks, together with their connection to measures made in order to avoid or minimize their impact.

Managing risk is a human instinct. In fact, the smarter and the older we get, the better we tend to become at managing risks. It takes experience and knowledge to be able to forecast danger and to approach it appropriately. We take the acquired power of our knowledge and use it avoid upcoming hazards.

The more we practise risk management the better we become at it.
 

What quantifies risk?

Risks can come in many different shapes and sizes. It can appear as a personal safety hazard, like getting into a car with a stranger. It can also appear as a financial predicament, like trying to safely forecast the stock market and personal financial investments. Risks appear every day, in a variety of ways, and it’s important that we regularly maintain the management of risk. Driving a great example of a daily routine where we are regularly managing an array of different risks, from the other drivers on the road to the performance of the car itself. How do we prioritize risk in our daily routines? Everyone has different priorities and we can’t always consider everything.

Here are a few ways you can begin managing risk:
 

1.Being Proactive:

Take the proper precautions to protect yourself from unpredictable threats. Start by making sure your home is being insured by a reputable company and that you’re receiving the highest quality warranty on your vehicle.
 

2. Warranty:

A-Protect is the safest and best option for anyone who requires security and protection for their car or motorcycle in the GTA. An unexpected automobile bill can happen at the most inopportune moment and it can leave you at a total standstill. Much of what can go wrong with a car is out of our control. As nice as it would be to have a warning of these issues in advance, that’s never the case.  It’s a much more practical option to sign up with A-Protect. Stay safe and make sure you can take on whatever comes your way.

With A-Protect, you’re not only protected, you’re connected with a team that cares about your safety and financial security.
 

3.Small Businesses:

While A-Protect may keep you safe from unexpected automobile expenses, what if you’re a small business or looking to start one? How does one manage the risks of being a self-starter?

If you’re thinking about starting a small business, then it’s important to research the different risks involved. This is why it’s so important you do everything you can to ensure the success of your brand or business. One way you can start to safeguard your success is by taking the proper precautions in the days leading up to your launch. Having an effective website and online brand can make the difference between a successful business and a defunct one.
 

In review:

There’s a number of ways you can successfully manage risk. Looking both ways when you cross the street, properly washing and cooking your food, and drinking responsibly are just some basic everyday precautions we take as a form of inherent risk management.

When it comes to managing risk outside of personal safety we turn to more complicated forms of risk management, like handling our finances, protecting our properties, guarding our private information, and even managing our careers.

One of the best ways to ensure you’re properly managing risk to the best of your ability is by selecting the best warranty available to protect your vehicle.  A-Protect provides the best coverage and the most competitive and transparent rates for automobile warranty. That’s why A-Protect is Ontario’s premier automobile warranty provider.

Contact A-Protect today for a free quote on warranty for your vehicle:

A-Protect
https://a-protectwarranty.com/
1-866-660-644

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Gilmedia Inc.
(647) 478-5858
www.gilmedia.ca

How to inspect a used car before you buy

At first glance, just about any used car can look like a great deal. Only obvious damage or a smoking engine is enough to put some hasty buyers off. The startling truth, however, is that some of the most significant damage is often difficult to detect upon initial inspection. When buying a used vehicle, here are a few things to look for:

 

Test Drive

If the seller is in any way apprehensive about allowing you to test drive the vehicle, then you can be sure that something is not quite right. Of course, if you don’t have a valid driver’s license, then you will need to have a trusted friend or family member take the wheel on your behalf. Either way, taking the car out on the road is an essential part of the buying process. It’s good to get a feel for the car. With a manual transmission, you will want to see just how well it takes to each gear and, with an automatic, you’ll want to know how smooth the transitions are. Make sure that you avoid using the radio and keep talking to a minimum so that you can really listen to the engine. In face, before you turn the key, you should open the window and make sure that you listen closely. Once the motor is running, step out of the car and pop the hood. Take a look at the engine and listen for any strange noises.

 

Physical Appearance

Take note of the interior and exterior condition of the vehicle. Look for things like rust, damaged trim, stains, worn seats, and so on. If the seats are covered with seat covers, you should definitely have a look underneath! Look for dents, scratches, panels that don’t quite line up, and any other signs that the vehicle may have been in an accident. If the seller is a smoker, you may also notice some stains along the interior roof, and the smell could also prove to be a negative point. Any irreversible damage can certainly help you knock down the asking price. Just make sure that you find out how much it will cost to replace or repair the damaged part before making your offer. If the damage is extensive, you may want to steer clear and look elsewhere. Rust is a good example of the kind of damage that can be a deal breaker. Once rust sets in, it can be extremely difficult to get rid of, and it can wreck even the toughest cars.

 

Check for leaks

If the seller has had the vehicle detailed recently, then you might not notice any leaks because the engine is squeaky clean. The best way to check for leaks is to park the car on a clean patch of road (without any oil stain or residue) after your test drive and allow the engine to idle for 30 minutes or more. Once this time has passed, move the vehicle at least one car length from the place you were, park, and inspect the ground where you left the vehicle to idle. If you notice black fluid, it could be an oil leak, green fluid could be leaking anti-freeze, and pink fluid could be a leaky transmission. Remember, if you are driving a car with the air conditioner on, the condensation can also drip from the bottom of the vehicle so take this into account as well.

 

Conduct Research

Over the years there have been recalls on certain makes and models for recurring problems. If you are interested in a particular used car, make sure that you do some research regarding known problems and issues that have come up. Not only will this help you make a solid buying decision but you will also be able to look even more closely for these issues in particular. While you’re at it, make sure that you check that the seller’s price is reasonable. Check the Blue Book value and don’t forget to take into account any extra features as well as problems or repairs that will be required.

 

Check the VIN

Do yourself a favor by checking the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) of the car you wish to buy. Check all records relating to the vehicle and make sure that all documentation is in order. There have been issues of VIN cloning in the past so make sure that you do not fall victim to such a tactic.

 

Call a Mechanic

Once you have taken a look at the vehicle and you’ve had a chance to take it for a test drive, you should still have it looked at by a certified mechanic. Get them to run diagnostics along with a physical inspection of various engine and mechanical parts. In many cases, it really helps to get the vehicle up on a lift so that it can be properly inspected from all angles.

Once you have chosen the vehicle you wish to buy, it’s also important to make sure that you are fully covered. A used vehicle extended warranty will ensure that you have added peace of mind thanks to the comprehensive protection you will enjoy during your travels. With so many packages available, it’s easy to find one that will suit your budget as well as your needs. All the more reason to make sure that you are covered before you take delivery of the vehicle.

Call A-protect Warranty at 1-866-660-6444 or (416)-661-7444 for more information and advice.

 

Common used car cover ups

No used vehicle is 100% perfect. No matter how well the seller takes care of their precious set of wheels, there are bound to be some flaws here and there. The degree of damage will depend on exactly how well the previous owner maintained the vehicle inside and out. When shopping for a used vehicle, it’s good to look out for the following common cover-ups.

 

Squeaky Clean

A car that has recently been detailed could be hiding a problem or two. While a clean engine is a good thing, it could have been recently cleaned in order to hide an oil leak and to make the engine look more perfect than it really is. The easiest solution, in this case, is to make sure that the engine is inspected by a professional mechanic of your choice. Don’t let the seller choose for you! If they don’t want to let you use your mechanic, you might want to take your business elsewhere.

 

Seat Covers

Seat covers can help protect your car seats, and they look good too. Of course, they can also be used to hide problems with the existing seats such as cracked leather, cigarette burns, stains, and general wear and tear. Make sure that you take the time to look under all of the seat covers and inspect for damage. While you’re at it, check under the car mats too! Car mats are great for protecting the carpet below, but they can hide some nasty stains and carpet damage. Lift each mat to make sure that the interior really is as perfect as it looks.

 

Smells

Whether the seller is a smoker, has pets, or simply leads a busy lifestyle with plenty of hours in their car, the interior can take on an unpleasant smell. Look for auto air fresheners that could be located throughout the vehicle to mask the smell. Smells can be really difficult to get rid of once they have really set in, and the air freshener won’t last forever!

 

Low light conditions

If the seller is only available after hours, when natural lighting is less than ideal, you might want to proceed with caution. Low light makes it difficult to really inspect any vehicle. No matter the color, make, or model, you need adequate light to check each and every inch both inside and out. If the seller is not available at a reasonable time during the week, ask about viewing and a test drive over the weekend. If they are reluctant, you might want to look elsewhere.

 

Rushing the deal

This is an extremely common and often effective sales tactic. A seller might not have any other potential buyers, but they will lead the interested party to believe that they have offers all lined up. Even if the vehicle seems like an excellent deal and there really is a high demand, it’s never a good idea to rush through the inspection and buying process. Rushing the sale is all part of the plot to ensure that you don’t notice certain defects! Some of these defects might be minor, but others can prove rather costly and make the deal less than attractive. If the seller tries to use this tactic, you can turn it around by playing it cool and telling them that you are considering several options and that you’re not in any kind of hurry.

Remember, no matter which vehicle you choose; it’s important to make sure that you protect your investment. The right used vehicle extended warranty will give you the freedom and peace of mind to really enjoy driving your new set of wheels without worrying about possible problems that could set you back a small fortune. 

Call A-protect Warranty at 1-866-660-6444 or (416)-661-7444 for more information and advice.

 

Choosing between different used vehicle extended warranties

When you purchase a used vehicle, it’s important to make sure that you are covered in the event that repairs and/or maintenance are necessary. By spending a nominal amount each month on your coverage, you can save hundreds, if not thousands, on parts and labor. When choosing between the various packages on the market, there are a few important points to consider.
 

Vehicle Make and Model

The made and model of your vehicle will determine what kind of coverage will suit your needs best. If you are aware of certain common faults with a certain make or model, you may like to ensure that such repairs are covered so that you don’t have to pay out of pocket. In some cases, the newer the vehicle, the more coverage the owner desires. Of course, this really does boil down to personal preference and budget.
 

Vehicle Value

Like the make and model of your vehicle, it’s value can also determine how much coverage you may prefer. For example, a more expensive vehicle may warrant a higher level of coverage. The more expensive the car, the more expensive the parts and the more specialized the labor. This means that repairing and maintaining a high-value vehicle can often cost more than repairs and maintenance on a cheap vehicle. Make sure that you are covered accordingly.
 

Additional Features

When your vehicle is fairly standard, you will benefit most from standard coverage. If your car has features like 4-wheel drive or all wheel drive, air conditioning, a turbo, power steering, ABS, and other bells and whistles, you may want to include these in your coverage. In most cases, your hi-tech parts cost the most to repair compared to your filters and other basic parts. When looking for the ideal package to suit your needs, it’s a good idea to supply your warranty provider with a full and comprehensive list of all of the features on your vehicle. With all the necessary information and proper understanding, you can enjoy maximum peace of mind.
 

Budget

Last but not least, your budget will certainly play a significant role in helping you choose the right plan. Basic plans that cover such things as towing and main mechanical components are the most affordable for those on a strict budget. If you have extra needs and extra cash, then you can choose accordingly. Take a moment to compare your budge to the possible cost of repairs or maintenance if and when needed.

The most important point to remember is that you should never feel pressured to choose a particular package or coverage that you don’t need. Why pay for coverage that you will never use because it does not apply to your vehicle? If you car does not have any hi-tech features, then there is no need to even consider plans with this sort of coverage included. Don’t allow salespeople to force you into a deal that won’t serve its full purpose. Instead, take your time and make sure that your needs are heard and understood. Read all the relevant documentation, ask as many questions as you need in order to feel confident with your choice, and make sure that you understand the claim filing process. You might not like the idea of claiming for a tow or other repairs, but it’s important to be prepared for if and when the need arises. Call A-protect Warranty at 1-866-660-6444 or (416)-661-7444 for more information and advice.

 

 

5 Things to consider when buying a used car

Buying a used vehicle offers a number of great benefits. The main advantage being the price, of course. Used vehicles, even if they are only a couple of years old, can be bought at an extremely reasonable price so you can enjoy a great set of wheels without breaking the bank. When shopping for a used car, there are a few important things that you will need to consider before signing on the dotted line. Here are 5 of the most important factors to keep in mind.
 

Vehicle history

One of the main risks of buying a used vehicle is the fact that you may never really know exactly how the car was treated. If the previous owner pushed the car to its limits, you might find that there are several parts that will need to be replaced. In addition, it’s also important that you ask for a full and detailed service history. The history of the vehicle should be in writing and all the relevant documents (like invoices) should be included. It’s never a good idea to simply take the seller’s word for it!
 

Inspect before you buy

Once you have the history in hand, and you are seriously considering buying a particular vehicle, it’s a good time to have it thoroughly inspected. When a car is sold “as is”, it means that you are buying it along with any problems it may have. So, before you sign or agree to anything, make sure that you get the car to a certified mechanic and have it looked over from top to bottom. Yes, this means getting the car on a lift too! Most mechanical problems can be located by simply taking a look under the hood. However, the suspension, exhaust system, and other essential working parts are best inspected from below. You wouldn’t want to take delivery of a car that won’t even make it to your home driveway! Remember, if the seller is hesitant about the inspection by a mechanic of your choice, then you should be skeptical of the deal!
 

Check the value

Do yourself and your budget a huge favor by looking into the value of the vehicle. The year of the vehicle will play a large role in determining the value as will the mileage. Any extra bells and whistles also add to the value of the vehicle so make sure that these features are factored into the equation. Other important things to consider include possible accident damage and rust. Look for panels that don’t quite line up as they should as well as mismatched paint or even patches that look like they have been touched up to hide rust. Take a knee near the front fender and look along the side of the vehicle. Do this on both sides to check for dents and other problems. Check the hood for dents as well. Many people have the poor habit of pressing down on the hood when closing it (instead of dropping it shut). Any and all damages factor into the final price.
 

Correct paperwork

Make sure that all the documents are in order and that all the correct paths have been followed before you take ownership. If any documents have been neglected by the previous owner, it could affect the legality of the deal. This means that you could end up paying for a car only to find that the deal is not as legit as it should be and you could land yourself in hot water.
 

Protect yourself with a warranty

Before you take deliver of your car, make sure that your used vehicle extended warranty is in order. Do this by requesting a quote for the warranty package of your choice and providing all the necessary details and documents in order to facilitate the process. Once your warranty is in effect, you can take delivery with the added peace of mind that your investment is protected.

Whether you choose to buy a used vehicle from a dealership or a private seller, it’s important to take your time and never rush the deal. Rushing through the process invariably means that you will miss something, and you could end up with some serious regrets (and additional expenses) later on. Call A-protect Warranty at 1-866-660-6444 or (416)-661-7444 for more information and advice.

 

Signs that your engine is not doing well

Your car consists of so many complex mechanisms to make it work and keep you safe and comfortable on the road. Most of the vital parts are contained within the engine and, when something’s amiss, it’s important to take those signs seriously! Here are some signs that your engine could be suffering a slight to major problem:

 

Smoke

Smoke from the front or back of your car is never a good sign. Blue smoke is usually indicative of oil escaping within the engine and burning with the fuel. White smoke usually occurs when antifreeze or water condensation mixes with your vehicle’s fuel. Like the oil leak, you can top it up regularly, but this won’t solve the problem. White smoke coming from the front of your car can often be an indicator of an overheating engine.

 

Smells

No matter how much take out you eat or how much you smoke in your car, you should never smell fuel, smoke, any kind of burning smell (like burning rubber), or carbon monoxide. If you do notice some strange smell, open your windows immediately and get your car tended to urgently. You never know where you may have sprung a leak and ignoring the problem can result in greater and more costly problems later on.

 

Noises

You know what your car normally sounds like when you start up and when you drive. Provided you don’t turn the stereo on from the minute you turn the key, you should be able to pick up on even the slightest changes. Your car has a kind of rhythm that you can depend on, and when this rhythm skips a beat, adds a beat or makes any kind of strange noise, you know that it will need attention. Diesel engines are often a bit noisier than gasoline engines, but this is still no reason to let excessive noise escape inspection. Grinding noises when you start your car could be signs of starter motor trouble while banging or clanging noises might be your car’s pistons.

 

Jerking

When you drive your car, it should be a smooth and comfortable experience. Unless you are a learner driver, and you don’t know how to change gears, your car should not jerk. If you drive an automatic, your vehicle should definitely not jerk. You might have clogged fuel lines, worn spark plugs, or another entirely different problem. These issues are best diagnosed and repaired by a certified professional.

 

Warning lights

Your dashboard is like information central. Not only can you monitor your speed and possibly your revs as well, but you can also keep an eye on how your car is doing. Warning lights notify you of problems when they occur so that you don’t drive your vehicle with a serious problem. A service light will tell you when it’s time to get your car checked in at your local service department while oil lights, heat gauges, and similar warning systems are in place to keep you informed and prepared.

Remember that it’s always best to have a professional tend to any engine maintenance and repairs. Trying to perform the repairs yourself is dangerous and can end up even more costly at the end of the day. Keep your car protected with a personalized extended warranty from A-Protect Warranty. Call 1-866-660-6444 or (416)-661-7444 for more information and advice.

 

 

 

Important things to remember when your car breaks down

When your car breaks down, for whatever reason, it can be as scary as it is inconvenient. There are some important things to remember when faced with this kind of situation. By following these guidelines, you will avoid any unnecessary complications.
 

Pull off the road

The first thing you need to do is get your vehicle out of the way. Pull into the service lane on the side of the road in order to make sure that you’re obstructing the flow of traffic. This means that you might need to be prepared to push your car for several feet in order to reach that safe spot, but it’s in your best interests as well as that of your fellow road users.
 

Warn other drivers

Let other drivers know that you are experiencing car trouble. Used your hazard lights and set out a reflective triangle as per local laws to help give cars fair warning. Wearing reflective clothing like a reflective jacket can also help if you do need to step out of your vehicle for whatever reason.
 

Phone for assistance

Phone your car warranty provider and file a claim for road assistance if applicable. It is always best to notify your provider first in order to make sure that you are indeed covered for the breakdown. Once you have filed your claim, you will then need to wait for help to arrive. If you are in a high traffic area, or you have any safety concerns, you might feel better by contacting the local law enforcement for added assistance. This is particularly important if the weather conditions are very poor and you may suffer from exposure to the cold or other weather-related problems.
 

Stay put and in your car

Don’t walk away! Wait with your car and, if it is safe to do so, wait inside your car. Remember, if you are in imminent danger, and your car poses a threat to your life or the lives of other drivers, you should call the authorities before you take any other steps. If your car is on fire, you should retreat to a safe distance rather than trying to retrieve any personal belongings from your vehicle.
 

Avoid DIY repairs

No matter how much you think you might know about cars or your car, in particular, it’s never a good idea to start poking around in search of the problem. One extremely dangerous, yet common, mistake that anyone can make is checking the water while the engine is still hot. When the engine is hot, the water in the system is also hot and, if you open it up to check, you could suffer serious burns! It’s especially important to wait for the experts if you have a factory or extended warranty! If you try to fix or even diagnose the problem yourself, your policy could become void.
 

Be mindful of your surroundings

Once you pull over to the side of the road, take a look around. Look for any road markers if you’re not sure about exactly where you are. Are there any potential dangers? Is your car parked along a steep embankment? If so, another car could collide with yours and push you down this slope. Be weary of other drivers, no matter how helpful they might seem! Don’t reveal any personal information and hold on to your personal belongings. Always keep your guard up. No matter how much we all want to believe in good Samaritans, it’s tough to know who you can and cannot trust.

At A-Protect Warranty, we believe in taking the time to listen and understand each and every one of our client’s needs before providing detailed information and a truly personalized warranty. Call  1(866) 660-6444 or (416) 661-7444 today for help choosing the best plan to suit your needs.