Why You Have To Be Careful Towing With Electric Cars

August 3, 2020 By WebGuy

With gas prices unpredictable and the continued viability of fossil fuels in the 21st century increasingly questioned, more people are purchasing hybrid and electric cars. Unfortunately, America’s obsession with fossil fuels is deeply ingrained, and that means the infrastructure to support electric vehicles can be lacking in many areas. For instance, it can be hard to find a recharging station in some cities.

Electric Cars Mean a Sustainable Future

This problem of infrastructure not only affects people who own electric vehicles (EVs) for personal use, but also companies looking to upgrade or augment their business fleets. The problem isn’t just a limited infrastructure. A lot of EVs also suffer from a lack of long-distance capability and high capacity towing. Companies looking to haul cargo long distances may not be able to use EVs.

The problem stems from the vehicle’s battery power being challenged by the increased weight with towing. Though technology and developments continue to improve electric vehicle design, they lack the power for long-distance hauling. This reason is why using electric cars for towing can prove problematic.

EV’s Are Limited but Improving Daily

As an example, personal EVs tend to have a limit of 3,000-5,000 pounds of towing and hauling capability. By comparison, a fossil fuel SUV can pull as much as 9,000 lbs. depending on the vehicle. Combined with the limited support infrastructure, EV’s are ill-suited to long-distance heavy hauling, at least for the time being.

That said, as long as the load is reasonable and the distance is within the vehicle’s range, using an EV for hauling and towing is possible. That means the overall viability of using EVs for towing and hauling depends on the needs of the company in question. Companies performing a lot of long-distance heavy hauling will have to wait for an electric vehicle powerful enough and with enough charging stations to undertake such an investment. For short distance medium loads, EVs should do the trick.

We Don’t See the EV Trend Stopping Any Time Soon

The development and support for EVs is improving and continues to grow. Unfortunately, the vehicles’ persistent problems are the need for infrastructure support such as charging stations, trained mechanics, and versatility of the cars. Hauling capacities and distances are improving, as Tesla’s claims seem to indicate. For the time being, however, fossil fuel vehicles are superior for long-distance hauling and towing. For shorter distances and lighter loads, at least, EVs will perform just fine.

If you require tow services in Raleigh NC, contact Unlimited Recovery and Towing at 919-790-9393.

Tips For Defensive Driving In The Rain

July 6, 2020 By WebGuy

It’s essential to drive safely and stay aware of road conditions at all times. However, when driving in the rain, vehicles should be extra careful. Rain on the road is not just a minor inconvenience. It can be highly dangerous for unprepared drivers. Using caution and staying alert when rainwater fills the streets. This way, the risk of accidents and injury is reduced. Rain might not seem like a big deal, but with less visibility, and relaxed driving, it can be a recipe for disaster. That’s why drivers need to be smart and vigilant whenever they get behind the wheel. Defensive driving is a must in adverse weather conditions. So let’s review the top driving tips to help drivers stay safe on the roads during rain.

Safe Driving in The Rain

It’s tempting to drive faster to get out of the rain, but this is a mistake. When rainfall starts, drivers should always slow down. Rainwater makes the road slick and slippery especially at the beginning of the storm. If a driver is going too fast, the car could hydroplane and cause an accident. So slow down and stay cautious, especially on the streets with standing water.

Keep Your Distance

In general, cars should keep a safe amount of space between them. When it rains, though, drivers should extend this distance. Water will make it harder to break and come to a complete stop. And if a car isn’t far enough away, they could crash into another close-by vehicle. A lot of car accidents occur this way. So take this driving tip seriously, and create vehicle distance on wet roads.

Turn Off Cruise Control

Cruise control is convenient when driving in good weather. However, when it starts to rain, this feature should be turned off. Cruise control can decrease a driver’s ability to control a car. Lessened control is not ideal in inclement weather.

Use Headlights

Headlights should be used in the rain to improve visibility as well. Drivers should make their vehicles more visible, but they don’t need to use high beams. High beams can make visibility worse in the rain.

Stay Aware of Large Cars

Trucks and other large cars are more likely to lose control in the rain. When driving in bad weather, make sure to keep track of these larger vehicles and give them space.

Overall, these driving tips are essential to consider during lousy weather. Driving defensively will keep drivers safe and accident-free. Still, mishaps can occur. If you ever get in a crash during the rain or need roadside assistance, call Unlimited Recovery at 919-790-9393. We are dedicated to helping drivers and providing them with roadside assistance and towing at any hour of the day!

Fluids Under Your Car- What Do They Mean?

June 1, 2020 By WebGuy

Different Fluids, Different Causes, Different Concerns

Most of us are very attached to our belongings, and when it comes to the car, some people are highly protective. When there’s a minor issue, there’s a rush to the service center to get our precious baby repaired. There are some things you can and should do on your own, but many more that are best left to your mechanic.

Are Leaking Fluids An Emergency?

Car maintenance is generally at the top of peoples’ priority list. However, this doesn’t mean that for every minor issue, a call for roadside assistance or towing company (Durham area) is required. Many of these issues are false alarms. Knowing the difference can save a lot of worries, time, and money.

Have you ever walked out into your garage or returned to your car in a parking lot and seen fluids oozing out from under your vehicle? What do you do? Does it worry you? Do you call your mechanic? Let’s look at a few things you should do before taking any drastic steps.

What Is That Fluid?

The first thing to do is to check the color and texture of the fluid. Narrowing down the type of fluid will help troubleshoot the severity of the problem.

Brake Fluid: If the liquid is brown-colored and slippery to the feel, it is probably the brake fluid. In this case, the car may be dangerous to drive. Without brake fluid, the brakes may fail. So, call for a tow and get your vehicle to a service center.

Radiator Fluid: A green or yellow-colored spill indicates radiator or coolant fluid. The radiator keeps the car from overheating when driven, so if the service center is nearby, fill the radiator with water and go, otherwise call for transport.

Transmission Fluid: A reddish-brown spill with a thick texture is the leakage of transmission fluid. You won’t be able to start the car if the transmission fluid has drained out.

Power Steering Fluid: The color and texture of power steering fluid and transmission fluid are very similar and easy to get confused. If it’s a power steering fluid leakage, the spill is generally under the front side of the car, but a transmission fluid leak will be towards the center of the vehicle.

When To Call For Assistance

Being able to identify the different auto fluids assists you with deciding on your next step. It’ll also help when speaking with an auto mechanic about your car problem. If you’re not sure about what the problem is and you’re away from home, play it safe and call for roadside assistance. Mechanical failures and breakdowns can result in considerable risk to your life, so be safe and cautious.

Unlimited Recovery And Towing To The Rescue

When it is time to call for a towing company in Durham area, call Unlimited Recovery and Towing for quick and professional service. Call 919-790-9393.

When To Fix It Yourself And When To Call The Tow Truck

May 4, 2020 By WebGuy

Sometimes, you Just Can’t do it Yourself

More often than not, we get stuck in situations when we least expect it. Car troubles are one of these situations. How frequently these situations happen depends on how old your car is and how well you maintain it. Getting stuck with a car breakdown on a busy road is always a bad experience. With people staring at you and horns blowing continuously, it’s embarrassing and stressful at the same time. So let’s look at some situations when you should try fixing the car yourself and when to call for towing.

Flat Tires

A flat tire is the most common problem which you can come across. Now you may be a pro at fixing this issue, but it’s not always safe to fix the tire yourself. You can evaluate the threats and then decide whether to fix it yourself or call a tow truck.

Calling a towing service is mainly crucial if the locality is not safe or during late-night hours. Busy roads and highways are not a safe place to change a tire. There is always risk involved in sitting down on the roadway to fix a tire. It’s better to call a tow truck in such situations to avoid placing yourself in a dangerous situation.

Carry Essential Repair Tools

Have jumper cables and the lug wrench for your wheels in your vehicle at all times. This small act of preparation keeps you from having to find someone with those tools when these common car problems occur. Do not wait for help from a stranger in the case of battery issues or a flat tire. If you don’t have the tools, call a tow truck.

Poor Weather Conditions

If you get stuck on the road during poor weather conditions like rain, hailstorm, or snowstorm, abandon the thought of self-repair. Other drivers may not be able to watch out for you due to poor weather conditions. Hence, during such situations, always opt for tow service.

While Away From Home

Having a breakdown in an unknown location can be very daunting, and you do not want to invite any more trouble. Hence, it’s better to call for help than trying to act smart in such situations. A local tow service will know the location of auto repair shops if required.

If you ever find yourself in any of the above situations, a towing service is ready to help. They can often make a repair on-the-spot and if not they can get the car to a place where it can be repaired. For one of the best towing companies in Raleigh, NC area, contact Unlimited Recovery and Towing at 919-790-9393.

What You Need To Do Right After An Accident

April 6, 2020 By WebGuy

Accidents Happen, Stay Calm

A car accident is a common but serious event that could have significant implications for an individual’s mental and physical well-being. Each year, millions of people get into car accidents. Some drivers and passengers sustain injuries and in the worst cases lose their lives. Keeping this in mind, everyone should know what to do when involved in a crash. There are some necessary steps that all drivers should take after an automobile accident.

Call the Police and File a Report

Alerting law enforcement to a crash is not something that every driver wants to do. Some drivers might not feel they are at fault for the accident. In some cases, neither driver is to blame – the circumstances were entirely out of their hands. Regardless, this is a necessary step. No one wants to deal with the hassle of talking with an officer. But if a driver wants to ensure having the required information for an insurance claim, the police should be called. In severe crashes, notifying police is an absolute, especially when someone is injured or killed.

Seek Medical Attention

In the worst-case scenario, drivers and passengers in a crash can sustain serious injuries. Some people underestimate the extent of their injuries and brush off medical attention. This in-the-moment decision can be due to shock and emotional trauma. Don’t make this mistake. Get checked over by a professional to ensure it is safe to leave the crash site and return home. Not getting medical treatment can be deadly and dangerous. Don’t risk your life. A medical professional can advise what to watch for and when to seek additional medical attention. Having a medical record of care after an accident can help later if a delayed injury reveals itself.

Get Roadside Assistance

If the car is damaged, roadside assistance should be called. A good towing company will get the vehicle out of the road and to a safe location. Crashed vehicles can be a dangerous hazard for other drivers on the road. A towing company will also be able to assess the damage of a crashed vehicle and help determine if the car is repairable.

Drivers based in the Raleigh area can call Unlimited Recovery. Unlimited Recovery will assist drivers in all emergencies. We are highly trained, quick, and prepared to deal with any vehicle crash. The best towing service is needed in a stressful situation. Unlimited Recovery provides customers with all their needs after a car accident. Call 919-790-9393 for assistance.

When You Might Need a Towing Service

March 2, 2020 By WebGuy

You Can Never Really Know When You’ll Find Yourself Needing an Emergency Tow

It always seems to happen when it is the most inconvenient – your car dies. It’s night. It’s raining. You’re late for an appointment. No matter the circumstances, a reliable towing service is just a phone call away. In these emergency roadside situations, drivers should call a towing company. Contrary to what many believe, towing companies are not limited to towing cars away. Towing businesses are equipped to help drivers in various circumstances, and if the car is undrivable, they can tow the vehicle to a secure location.

A Towing Service can do the Following and More

Flat Tires: Changing a flat tire on the side of a road might seem easy and risk-free, but many drivers don’t know how to do this task. Changing a tire without any experience can be frustrating and dangerous. To get the job done fast, call a towing service. Unlimited Recovery will get you back on the road in no time.

Out of Gas: Not all car trouble is serious. Some drivers run out of fuel in the middle of the road. Drivers don’t have to get out of their car and risk getting hit by a passing vehicle. Instead, call a towing service. They can bring enough gas to get the car running. This way, the automobile can be driven to a gas station for a fill-up.

Dead Car: Cars can unexpectedly stop running, and sometimes won’t start up even when jumper cables are used. This situation is another where a towing company can help. Any number of issues could be at play. Maybe there is something wrong with the spark plugs. Or perhaps the battery in the car is dead. Towing companies can assist drivers and bring a spare battery. If the battery isn’t the issue, they can deliver the vehicle to the nearest mechanic.

Repairs: Not all cars need to be towed away. Sometimes, they need an emergency repair. Towing companies like Unlimited Recovery have mechanics on hand that can help customers with car issues. If the problems are more serious, they will also be able to tow a car away to a nearby shop. They can even provide customers with estimates for repairs.

Need to Move a Car: Maybe a car needs to be moved, a motorcycle, or other recreational vehicles. Towing companies can move both damaged and undamaged vehicles from one location to another.

No matter the situation, a towing service can help you. Contact Unlimited Recovery for any car trouble. Call 919-790-9393.

Tips for Combating High Gas Prices

February 3, 2020 By WebGuy

Gas is Expensive, but you can Keep it Affordable

Are you looking to combat the ever-increasing prices of gas but aren’t sure where to start? It’s a lot easier than you think! There are all kinds of simple tips and tricks you can use to help you save money on gas by lowering your fuel consumption. Most of these involve adjusting your driving habits slightly. A few small changes and you will notice a big difference to your wallet. Some helpful tips are discussed here:

Inflate Your Tires

Only 17 % of cars have their tires inflated correctly, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA). Having the proper pressure level in the tires can increase fuel efficiency by 3%.
Use the manufacturers recommended tire pressure (usually found on a label on the driver’s door). Always check the tire pressure if the car has not been driven or when the tires are cold. If the tires have low pressure, that increases the surface area touching the road, which will result in more fuel consumption.

Buy a Fuel-Efficient Car

Investing in a fuel-efficient car when gas prices are escalating can make an impact. Be sure to review the fuel rating when looking at new cars.

Drive Calmly

Avoid aggressive driving and slow down just 5 miles per hour. This small change will make a significant impact on your gas mileage. It costs 20 cents per gallon on average for every 5 miles above 50mph. Continually accelerating, braking, and speeding reduces fuel efficiency, so drive more wisely.

Drop Extra Weight

The vehicle consumes more fuel when there is more weight. So over the long term, you can save a fair amount of cash by reducing the total weight. Dropping 100lbs would save 3 cents per gallon, which adds up over time. So empty the trunk and remove any other unnecessary stuff from the vehicle.

Tune-Up The Engine

Gas mileage can be improved by an average of 4%, depending on the kind of repair needed. Fixing a serious problem, such as repairing a faulty oxygen sensor, can improve mileage by 40%.
As people are becoming more affluent global demand for gas continues to rise. Natural disasters and political changes can unexpectedly cause gas to get more costly. Your best step is to make adjustments to balance the added cost.

If you ever need a towing service, Unlimited Recovery and Towing is ready to help. Call 919-790-9393.

Set a New Standard With Parking Lot Management

January 6, 2020 By WebGuy

Any Self-Respecting Business Needs Parking Lot Management

With the new year growing businesses will need more parking space than ever. During this crucial time, take charge of your parking lot management. Illegal parkers should not be allowed to take up parking spaces. These parking spots should instead be available for real customers. Nothing is worse than having a full parking lot and no business.

Illegal parking is a problem for many companies. Luckily, there are legal means of dealing with this issue. A few methods will help prevent violators from occupying a storefronts lot. Signs are one way to avoid this problem altogether. Legally, signs need to be put up to warn vehicles of towing if there are more than three spots available on private property. When signage is installed, it should list the towing company name and phone number so the offender can locate their towed car. It can also include fines or penalties associated with towing.

Clearly Posted Signs Will Keep Unwanted People Out

With a sign and a fine posted, most people won’t risk parking in a space illegally, but not all individuals will be deterred. If the proper procedures are followed, and the car is parked on private property, at this point, the police or your local towing company can be called. Just make sure the vehicle is in a tow zone. Mistakes in towing a car parked legally could create problems. The local authorities should be given information about the vehicle being towed and where it is headed. This way, there won’t be any legal trouble for those towing.

The best way to ensure that this process goes smoothly is by hiring a towing company to install signs and do the towing. Not everyone has towing signs put up around their business, though. In the long run, not doing this could be bad for business. Try to get this done as soon as possible. Cars can’t be towed on a whim. Regulations and rules need to be followed.

Don’t be Afraid to Protect Your Property

Again, a professional towing company will know how to handle this. Besides the tower’s number and name, the sign needs to be located at the entrance of the lot. It will also need to include the hours of towing enforced, as well as who will be towed. Make sure to understand all the requirements for towing cars on private property before you hire anyone. Different areas of the country will have different rules. So be on the lookout for that and find a company that fits with the business. Once a business has the right towing procedure, it will see quick results.

Business owners located in the Raleigh North Carolina area should contact Unlimited Recovery to assist with parking lot management. They are a great towing company that will service all towing needs. Just call 919-790-9393.

First Things To Check For If Your Car Won’t Start

December 2, 2019 By WebGuy

Stay Calm, it’s Not the End of the World

Do you freak out when you turn that key, and nothing happens? Are you late getting places because your car won’t start? Have these embarrassing moments become so frequent that you have thoughts of selling your vehicle?

Wait! Let’s take a second look. Here are some troubleshooting points to consider to narrow down the problem.

Steering Wheel Lock – If you insert your key, but the key will not turn, chances are your steering wheel is in a locked position. To unlock, wiggle the steering wheel back and forth until the ignition locking device releases. This is a frequent problem, but easy to solve.

Empty Fuel Tank – Yes, it happens. An empty fuel tank is one of the most common reasons for a car not starting. Ensure that your fuel tank is always sufficiently filled with gas, to avoid a disrupted start.

Dead Battery – The moment you turn the key, the battery delivers current to the alternator, which triggers the whole ignition system. A dead or weak battery will result in no or insufficient flow of current to start the engine. There will be no sound when the key is turned if the battery is dead. If the battery is weak, the first turn may make a sound, but the engine will not start or the start will be sluggish. Any additional key turns will have no sound.

Listen Closely, Look for Uncommon Causes

Snapped Starter – Starter plays a pivotal role in starting a car, as it cranks the engine. A damaged starter will not allow the engine to start. A clicking noise will be heard when you turn the key. This clicking sound reveals a broken starter.

Busted Ignition Switch – If the car’s headlights turn on, but the car fails to start, then the battery is not to blame. A more suspicious culprit is a bad ignition switch.

Fouled Fuel Filter – Your fuel filter is responsible for supplying gasoline to the engine. A clogged filter cuts the fuel supply from the engine and makes the whole system dead.

Most people can solve a loose wire, dead battery, or empty fuel tank. A blocked fuel filter or broken starter will need to be done by a technician. If you troubleshoot these problems and the car still won’t start, it is time to take it to a mechanic for evaluation.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

If your car won’t start – we can help. Just call Unlimited Recovery and Towing at 919-790-9393 for all your roadside assistance and towing needs.

Maintenance Tips to Extend the Lifespan of Your Vehicle

November 4, 2019 By WebGuy

Caring for your Car

With the expenses on your household budget continuously increasing, the last thing you want to worry about is your vehicle breaking down, forcing you to buy a new one. Fortunately, there are some easy-to-follow maintenance tips to keep your vehicle running for years.

Give Special Attention to the Tires

Tires are probably the most misunderstood part of the car as most people don’t think they hold much weight in the maintenance of the whole vehicle. This idea is wrong. Tires should be moved to the top of the list.

Regularly check your tires. Check the tire pressure before going on long trips and consult the vehicle owner’s manual if you don’t know the suggested pressure for your vehicle tires. Most cars also have a label on the driver’s side door that lists the tire pressure (PSI).

Never drive with over-inflated or flat tires as they reduce the lifespan of the tires. Check with your local tire dealer if the tires on your car need to be rotated. The recommended rotation pattern is different for the type and brand of tires.

Don’t Drive Wrecklessly

Driving responsibly is a huge contributor to the lifespan of your vehicle. Don’t ride the brakes while driving or accelerate too fast. These extreme driving behaviors are hard on a car and reduce its lifespan. Treat your car well, and it will do the same to you.

Check Oil Regularly

Oil is the major component and plays a massive role in keeping your vehicle’s engine in working order. Not only does it enhance the lifespan of your engine, but it also improves your gas mileage.

The recommended time between oil changes is 4 to 6 months; however, it depends upon the usage of your vehicle. Change it before going over 5000 miles to get the best results.

Another important tip here is to change the oil filter along with the oil change because running new oil through a dirty filter reduces the benefit of new oil.

Refer to the vehicle owner’s manual to get more details about how often to change the oil and what type of oil to use as it varies from vehicle to vehicle.

Don’t get comfortable just following the sticker in the corner of your windshield or what your car tells you – check that oil regularly and make sure you’re still looking good. You’d rather look too much and always find great looking oil than the one time you do look you find horribly old oil that’s doing nothing but hurting your car.

Follow these vehicle tips to keep you car running in perfect order. If you ever need road maintenance or a tow, contact Unlimited Recovery at 919-790-9393.