Summer is the perfect time for road trips, getaways, and family vacations. But the warmer months also bring a higher risk of vehicle breakdowns. Rising temperatures, extended drives, and increased road traffic all put extra strain on your car. These can lead to unexpected issues requiring tow truck service when you least expect them.
At Marietta Wrecker Service, our experienced team has seen it all. From overheated engines to flat tires on I-285, we know how summer affects drivers in the Atlanta area and beyond. If you’re searching for a tow truck service or looking up “wrecker service near me,” chances are, you’re already facing a problem. But with a little preparation, you can reduce your chances of needing emergency roadside assistance. Here are some of the most common summer car breakdowns and what you can do to avoid them.

Common Summer Breakdowns
1. Overheating Engines
The Georgia heat is no joke. When temperatures rise, your engine works even harder to stay cool. If your vehicle’s cooling system isn’t in top shape, it can lead to overheating, which is one of the top reasons we get calls for “towing near me services” during the summer.
Prevention Tips:
- Check your coolant levels regularly.
- Inspect your radiator, hoses, and water pump for leaks.
- Replace old or worn-out coolant with the proper mixture of antifreeze and water.
If you notice your temperature gauge rising or steam coming from under the hood, pull over immediately and call a tow truck company like Marietta Wrecker Service to avoid serious engine damage.
2. Dead Car Batteries
Hot weather can be just as tough on your battery as cold weather. Extreme heat accelerates battery fluid evaporation, which can lead to corrosion and failure, especially if your battery is more than three years old.
Prevention Tips:
- Have your battery tested before a long trip.
- Clean corrosion off terminals.
- Make sure your alternator is charging properly.
Don’t get stranded in a parking lot on a 95-degree day. Call Marietta Wrecker Service for prompt roadside assistance or a battery jump if you’re stuck.
3. Flat or Blown Tires
Summer heat can cause the air inside your tires to expand, leading to overinflation. Combine that with worn treads or road debris, and you’ve got a recipe for a blowout, especially on hot pavement.
Prevention Tips:
- Check your tire pressure when the tires are cold and adjust accordingly.
- Rotate your tires regularly to ensure even wear.
- Inspect for cracks, punctures, or bald spots.
If you’re dealing with a flat, don’t risk changing it yourself on the side of a busy highway. Search for “tow truck service near me”, and let the pros at Marietta Wrecker handle it safely.
4. Air Conditioning Failure
Nothing ruins a summer drive like a broken AC system. Beyond the discomfort, a failed AC can also affect your car’s electronics and even cause the engine to overheat in some cases.
Prevention Tips:
- Have your AC system inspected before peak summer.
- Make sure your refrigerant levels are correct.
- Replace clogged cabin air filters.
If your AC quits and you’re stuck on the road, after searching for “wrecker service near me”, our team can transport you and your vehicle to a trusted mechanic without hassle.
5. Transmission Trouble
Stop-and-go traffic in high heat can put added strain on your vehicle’s transmission. If you’re towing a trailer or driving through Atlanta traffic during the summer, your transmission is working overtime.
Prevention Tips:
- Check transmission fluid levels and color.
- Avoid heavy towing or hauling without proper transmission coolers.
- Pay attention to slipping gears or delayed shifting.
When your transmission starts acting up, it’s better to get help before it becomes a total failure. Contact towing near me professionals to get your vehicle off the road safely.
6. Locked Out of Your Car
It’s surprisingly easy to lock your keys in your car while at the gas station or on a summer outing. And with high interior temperatures, this can be dangerous, especially with kids or pets involved.
What To Do:
- Don’t try to force your way in.
- Call Marietta Wrecker Service for fast lockout roadside assistance.
- Consider getting a spare key made or using a remote app if your car supports it.
We provide non-damaging entry services to get you back in your vehicle quickly and safely.
7. Fuel System Problems
Running low on gas is an easy mistake to make when you’re distracted by summer fun. But old fuel filters and dirty injectors can also cause stalls and rough driving.
Prevention Tips:
- Keep your gas tank at least a quarter full.
- Use quality fuel and consider a fuel system cleaner.
- Replace your fuel filter as recommended by your manufacturer.
If you run out of fuel on the road, we can deliver gas directly to you through our convenient roadside assistance services.

Why Choose Marietta Wrecker Service?
When a breakdown happens, you don’t want to wait hours or deal with unresponsive companies. You want fast, professional help; and that’s exactly what Marietta Wrecker Service provides. Here’s why our customers trust us:
- 24/7 availability for emergency towing and roadside assistance
- A large fleet of modern tow trucks serving metro Atlanta and beyond
- Fast response times and courteous drivers
- Full range of services including jump starts, fuel delivery, tire changes, winching, and lockouts
Whether you’re searching for “towing near me” or “wrecker service near me,” we are the name locals turn to when they need help fast. Our commitment to safety, reliability, and customer service makes us the go-to tow truck service in Georgia.
Call Us Today!
Don’t let a summer breakdown ruin your travel plans. A little preventative maintenance can go a long way in keeping your vehicle road-ready. But if the unexpected happens, Marietta Wrecker Service is here to help. We’re just a call or click away whenever you’re searching for “tow truck near me”. Whether it’s a flat tire, engine failure, or roadside emergency, our team is standing by to get you back on the road safely. Give us a call today!