Roadside Assistance Cologne

Flat battery and won't start

If the engine just clicks or does nothing at all, it's usually the battery. Common causes are cold weather, lots of short trips, an ageing battery, or a light left on. If it's safe and technically possible, we first try to start the vehicle with a booster. After that you should drive a longer stretch and have the battery checked. If the vehicle still won't start, there's often another fault, for example the starter motor or fuel supply. Then transport to a garage is the next step. Hybrid and electric cars have special jump-start points; see our guide (German) on jump-starts and flat batteries.

Flat Tyre

Carrying on isn't always possible or safe. Many new vehicles don't have a spare wheel, only a repair kit with sealant. That helps with small holes in the tread, but not with a torn tyre or sidewall damage. In those cases, direct transport to a tyre service is often the most efficient solution. On motorways, in tunnels and at confusing spots, don't change a wheel yourself. More in our guide (German) on flat tyres.

Locked Out

Keys locked in the car, door shut? First check whether there's a spare key someone can bring, or whether your vehicle can be unlocked via a manufacturer app. If not, we'll see whether we can help you on the spot. Don't try to pry the door open with wire or a coat hanger: that often leads to scratches, bent door frames, damaged seals, or problems with the electronics and airbags. If a child or an animal is locked inside, call 112 immediately. More in our guide (German) on being locked out.

Wrong Fuel

If you notice the mistake at the pump: stop fuelling, don't start the engine, and don't turn on the ignition. On many modern vehicles the fuel pre-supply pump starts running as soon as the driver's door opens, so keep the door closed if you can. The vehicle is then taken to a garage where the fuel is pumped out. If the engine has already run, the damage to the injection system can be significant. So the rule is: don't keep driving. More in our guide (German) on wrong fuel.

Vehicle Won't Start

We first check what's going on, then decide whether help on the spot is enough or the vehicle needs towing. Your own observations help: Does it click? Does the starter motor turn over? Are warning lights on? Is the tank empty?

Empty Tank

If a vehicle runs out of fuel, we'll work out with you whether fuel can be brought to you or the vehicle taken to the nearest petrol station. On diesel vehicles, the fuel system often needs bleeding after running dry; the garage decides that.

When it can't be fixed on the spot: towing

If something red is lit up on the dashboard, or the engine overheats, see our guides (German) on warning lights and an overheating engine. If none of that helps, the vehicle is loaded onto a flatbed and taken to the garage you name. How that works and what to prepare is on our Towing & Recovery Cologne page.

How it works

Call us or message on WhatsApp and send your location. We discuss what's needed and organise the help. Jobs on the ground are carried out by our partners in Cologne and the surrounding area.

Send location on WhatsApp +49 176 41956993