Quick Takeaways: Know Your Drivetrain: How your car can be safely towed depends entirely on whether it’s an automatic, manual, FWD, RWD, AWD, or 4WD. Automatic Transmissions: Never let a tow truck drag an automatic vehicle by its drive wheels. Without the engine running, internal parts spin dry, causing catastrophic transmission damage in just [...]
Whether you are commuting to work, heading out on a weekend road trip, or navigating the busy I-70 mountain corridor, encountering a construction work zone is an inevitable part of driving. While these infrastructure improvements are necessary for the long-term safety and efficiency of our roadways, navigating them in the present can be highly [...]
With the first day of fall officially kicking off tomorrow, the changing aspen leaves and crisp air are a beautiful reminder of what's coming next. While we still have time before the deep winter freeze takes over, autumn in the Rockies brings its own unpredictable driving conditions. From sudden rain squalls to early sleet [...]
Hearing that unmistakable "thump-thump-thump" of a flat tire while driving is enough to ruin anyone’s day. While changing a tire is a great skill to have, doing it on the side of a road comes with real risks. Before you even reach for the lug wrench, you need to secure your environment. Here is [...]
Key Takeaways 2WD/FWD vehicles now need chains or an ATD, period. Under Senate Bill 25-069, tires alone no longer bring a 2WD or FWD vehicle into compliance, regardless of rating. AWD/4WD vehicles need the right tires or chains/ATD. Mud-and-snow, winter, or manufacturer all-weather tires at 3/16" tread depth still qualify — worn all-seasons don't. [...]
Every summer, when the monsoon rains roll into the high country, longtime Eagle County drivers keep half an eye on Glenwood Canyon. That instinct goes back to one summer in particular. This year marks five years since a series of historic mudslides shut down I-70 through the canyon — and since local tow crews, [...]
If your vehicle loses momentum on the Vail Pass grade or gets sidelined along I-70, do not let a recovery team drag it with two wheels on the asphalt. For modern All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and Electric Vehicles (EVs), only a flatbed recovery will prevent irreversible driveline damage. Call West Vail Towing — the recovery [...]
Quick Takeaways for Your 4th of July Weekend: No Fireworks: Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are in effect for all of Eagle County. Personal and public fireworks are strictly prohibited. The Parties Continue: Despite the restrictions, daytime events, parades, and concerts in Vail, Avon, and Gypsum are still on! Traffic & Safety: Expect a busy [...]
Key Takeaways Before You Climb: Expect a Power Drop: Naturally aspirated engines lose about 3% of their horsepower for every 1,000 feet of elevation gained. Check Tire Pressure Locally: Drastic elevation and temperature changes cause tire pressure to fluctuate wildly. Check your PSI after you arrive and the tires cool. Watch Your Heat: Thinner [...]
Key Takeaways: Don't ignore the noise: Scraping sounds often mean a loose plastic splash shield, exhaust pipe, or dangling chains. The hidden dangers: Dragging parts can snag and rip out expensive engine components, create fire-causing sparks, or break off and hit other drivers. Take action safely: Pull over immediately, inspect from a safe distance, [...]
