What to Do If Your Car Breaks Down on the Highway in San Jose

A sudden breakdown on US-101, I-280, or Highway 85 can turn an ordinary drive into a high-stress situation. With fast-moving vehicles, limited shoulder space, and the unique traffic patterns of the South Bay, it’s important to know exactly how to respond.

Drawing on years of experience providing towing and roadside assistance across San Jose—from the busy Downtown core to quieter stretches near Silver Creek Valley—here’s a clear, practical plan to follow.

1. Keep Your Cool and Act Quickly

If your vehicle starts losing power, making unusual noises, or emitting smoke, signal right away and steer toward the nearest safe spot—whether that’s the right shoulder or an exit ramp.

On I-880 near the airport, for example, traffic is often heavy and shoulders can be narrow, so your first priority should be moving your car as far as possible from active lanes.

2. Alert Other Drivers

Turn on your hazard lights immediately after coming to a stop. If you have reflective warning triangles or road flares, position them several feet behind your vehicle to boost visibility—particularly in foggy conditions near Capitol Expressway or during early-morning commutes on Almaden Expressway.

3. Stay Inside Unless It’s Unsafe

In most cases, your vehicle offers more protection than standing outside near fast-moving traffic. Keep your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.

If you’re in a dangerous location—such as a blind curve on Highway 17—exit from the passenger side and move to a safe spot behind a barrier.

4. Call a Local Towing Service

When you’re safely out of traffic, call a local San Jose towing service or roadside assistance provider. Share specific location details—such as mile markers or nearby exits—so they can find you quickly. For example, “Northbound 101 just past Tully Road” is far clearer than simply saying “on 101.”

Local operators know the best access points for different highways and how to work safely in busy South Bay traffic.

5. Be Aware of San Jose Highway Challenges

Driving here means dealing with:

• Heavy Commute Traffic – Weekday mornings and evenings can turn 280, 101, and 680 into slow-moving parking lots, yet sudden speed changes are common.

• Rainy-Season Hazards – Elevated ramps like the 87/280 connector get slick during winter storms.

• Ongoing Roadwork – Construction zones often reduce shoulder space, making breakdowns more hazardous.

Knowing these patterns helps you prepare and communicate effectively with your towing provider.

6. Reduce the Risk of Future Breakdowns

While some issues are unavoidable, regular upkeep can greatly reduce your chances of getting stranded. Before long trips, check:

• Tire condition and spare readiness – Flat tire service can save you if you’re caught unprepared.

• Engine fluids – Low coolant is a common cause of overheating.

• Battery health – Jumpstart service is available if your battery fails.

• Brakes and lights – Crucial for safety, especially in heavy traffic.

Many breakdown calls we receive—especially along Highway 85 through Saratoga and Cupertino—are due to overheating or flat tires that could have been prevented.

The Bottom Line

Breaking down on a San Jose highway can be stressful, but taking the right steps can help you stay safe until help arrives. Act promptly, make sure you’re visible to other drivers, and call a trusted local towing service familiar with South Bay roads.

If you ever get stuck on 101, 280, 680, or anywhere in the San Jose area, our team is on call 24/7 to respond quickly and professionally.

Need roadside help now? Contact us for immediate assistance anywhere in the South Bay.