Breakdowns rarely happen at a convenient time. Whether it’s a warning light on the Monash or a car that won’t start in a shopping centre car park, a clear plan makes the whole thing less stressful.
1. Get yourself safe first
- Turn on your hazard lights straight away.
- If the car is still moving, steer as far left as you safely can — ideally onto the shoulder, an emergency stopping bay or a side street.
- On a freeway, if it’s safe to get out, exit on the side away from traffic and wait behind the safety barrier.
- If you’re stopped in a live traffic lane and can’t move, stay in the car with your seatbelt on and call 000 if you’re in danger.
2. Work out where you are
Note the road, direction of travel and the nearest exit, cross street or landmark. On a phone, your map app can usually show your exact position. When you request a tow online you can share your GPS location with one tap, which helps a lot on long stretches of freeway.
3. Check the simple things
Only if it’s safe: is there fuel? Any obvious warning lights? A flat tyre? Sometimes a breakdown is a quick fix. But if the engine is overheating, there’s smoke, or the car has lost drive, don’t keep trying — you can turn a repairable fault into an expensive one.
4. Decide where the car should go
If you have a regular mechanic, call them to check they can take the car. If it’s after hours, ask about their key drop and where vehicles can be left. If you’re not sure yet, the car can go home first.
5. Arrange a tow
Give the towing company your location, destination, vehicle details and whether the car rolls and steers. Ask for the total price before you agree. A tilt tray is the safest option for most modern cars, especially automatics and all-wheel drives.
6. While you wait
- Stay somewhere safe and visible, away from traffic.
- Get your keys, registration papers and valuables ready.
- Keep your phone charged and nearby so the driver can contact you.
Was it an accident?
If your car was damaged in a crash in metropolitan Melbourne, the tow from the scene is allocated through Victoria’s official accident allocation system. Our accident towing guide explains what to expect and your rights.
Broken down right now? Request a tow online — it takes under a minute.