What to Do If Your Car Breaks Down in the Middle of Nowhere

2026-01-29
What to Do If Your Car Breaks Down in the Middle of Nowhere banner
Brought to you by Kalamunda Toyota

You're out exploring WA's wide-open roads, towing the caravan or heading off on a long weekend adventure. Then it happens. A warning light. A flat tyre. A silent engine. You're a long way from anywhere, and there's no mobile reception in sight. Take a breath. Here's what to do if your car breaks down in a remote area, and how Toyota Roadside Assist can help when you need it most.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Safe

The first priority is keeping yourself and your passengers safe.

  • Pull over carefully: Get your vehicle off the road if possible, onto the shoulder or a safe flat area away from traffic.
  • Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
  • If it's safe, stay inside your vehicle, especially on highways or in low-visibility conditions.
  • If you have safety triangles, place them behind your car to warn approaching traffic.
  • Avoid walking near the road, particularly at night or in remote areas.

Step 2: Work Out Where You Are

Before you call for help, take note of your location. This makes it much easier for assistance to find you.

  • Look for the closest road sign or distance marker
  • Check your GPS coordinates or drop a pin in Google Maps (even without reception, your phone can often show your location)
  • Note any nearby landmarks, intersections, or kilometre markers

The more accurate you can be, the faster help will reach you.

Step 3: Call Toyota Roadside Assist

If you're covered by Toyota Roadside Assist, help is just a phone call away, even if you're off the beaten track.

Call Toyota Roadside Assist on 137 200 (available 24/7, Australia-wide)

Toyota Roadside Assist can help with:

  • Flat tyres
  • Battery jump-starts
  • Towing to the nearest Toyota dealer
  • Lost keys or lockouts
  • Emergency fuel delivery
  • And more

It's genuine peace of mind, whether you're heading out to Mundaring Weir, up to the Avon Valley, or further afield.

Step 4: Make the Most of What You Have

While you wait for help to arrive:

  • Use your phone sparingly to preserve battery
  • Stay hydrated and find shade if it's hot
  • If you have a basic toolkit or spare tyre, and it's safe to do so, you may be able to fix minor issues yourself
  • This is why we always recommend keeping a breakdown kit in your car: water, a torch, high-vis vest, portable phone charger, and some snacks

A little preparation goes a long way, especially on longer trips.

Step 5: Get Covered (Even If You're Not Yet)

If you've broken down and don't currently have Roadside Assist, you can sign up on the spot to receive support.

Simply visit toyota.com.au/roadside-assist or call to get started. There are options to suit your needs, from new vehicle coverage to affordable plans for used cars.

Coverage includes:

  • 24/7 Australia-wide assistance
  • Towing to the nearest Toyota dealer
  • Accommodation or car hire in remote breakdown situations (on select plans)
  • Unlimited callouts during your membership term
Heading Out of the Hills? Don't Leave Without It

Heading Out of the Hills? Don't Leave Without It

Whether you're planning a trip to Kalbarri, down to Margaret River, or just exploring the back roads around the Perth Hills, Toyota Roadside Assist is your safety net when things don't go to plan. We see plenty of customers here at Kalamunda Toyota who love getting off the main roads. If that sounds like you, it's worth making sure you're covered before you head out.

Heading Out of the Hills? Don't Leave Without It

Heading Out of the Hills? Don't Leave Without It

Whether you're planning a trip to Kalbarri, down to Margaret River, or just exploring the back roads around the Perth Hills, Toyota Roadside Assist is your safety net when things don't go to plan. We see plenty of customers here at Kalamunda Toyota who love getting off the main roads. If that sounds like you, it's worth making sure you're covered before you head out.

We're Happy to Help

Not sure if you're covered, or want to know more about Roadside Assist for your vehicle? Pop in and have a chat with our service team. Whether your Toyota is brand new, pre-owned, or even out of warranty, we can point you in the right direction - that's what we're here for.

Visit us on Canning Road in Kalamunda, or contact us today!