Should I have my vehicle towed

Shawn Gilfillan • June 11, 2020

To Tow or Not to Tow


There are always times when you come across an unexpected situation with your vehicle.


Breakdowns are never fun no matter where you are and It is certainly an inconvenience. We want you to know that if that moment should arise where you are in need of a tow, we are here for you. As you have come to expect with the service you receive at Automotive Magic we work on the details and let you get on with your life.

When a repair is needed we have got you covered.

24/7 ASSISTANCE


Not only are we a AAA auto repair facility, we have a 24/7 Towing service we’ve been working with for the last seventeen years. We have partnered with JC and Daughters right here in Randolph and they are exceptional in the service that they provide.

JC and Daughters

Your process is seamless because we can dispatch their service to tow your vehicle into our shop at any time. There’s no need to dig around finding a towing company, day or night we can help. If it should happen that it is after our normal operating scheduled hours, you can just call our number (973) 366-3777 and hit prompt #2 and your call is automatically dispatched to them and they will be on the job immediately.


SOME THINGS TOWING CAN HELP PREVENT


Some helpful information on why when in doubt tow your vehicle.

  • Dangers of riding on a flat tire. Learn More
  • Battery charge - what happens when it dies? Learn More
  • Alternator - losing power to your vehicle including power steering. Learn More
  • Things to keep within your vehicle in case of an emergency. Learn More
  • Check engine or flashing dash lights - the warning you should not ignore. Learn More


When in doubt get it towed!

Team | Automotive Magic
Shawn Gilfillan

Shawn Gilfillan is the dedicated owner of Automotive Magic in Kenvil, NJ. With over two decades of experience, Shawn has led his team in providing expert auto repair and service since 2003. 


In 2022, Magic Lube & Rubber was born in Lake Hopatcong, NJ. Committed to fostering strong community ties and supporting team development, Shawn prioritizes customer satisfaction above all. As a proud family man and long-time resident of Roxbury, NJ, Shawn brings a blend of professionalism and warmth to his business. 


Trust Shawn and his team for all your automotive needs with confidence and assurance.

Schedule an Appointment
July 7, 2025
Summer is all about adventure — beach days, weekend getaways, long road trips to places you've been dreaming of all winter. But nothing puts a damper on those big family plans faster than a surprise car issue an hour into the drive. The good news? A quick pre-trip check can go a long way toward keeping everyone safe, stress-free, and focused on the fun ahead. Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or just heading to the grandparents’ for a long weekend, here’s a simple, smart checklist to help make sure your vehicle is ready to roll. Before You Pull Out of the Driveway, Take a Few Minutes to Check: Your Tires Tires are one of the easiest things to overlook — until something goes wrong. Make sure all four (plus the spare!) are properly inflated. Check your owner’s manual or the sticker inside the driver’s door for the right pressure. Do the “quarter test” for tread depth — stick a quarter into the tread with Washington’s head down. If you can see the top of his head, it’s time for new tires. Look for any visible cracks, bulges, or uneven wear. That kind of damage is a warning sign worth listening to. Well-maintained tires mean better handling, better gas mileage, and a whole lot less stress on the road. Windshield Wipers & Washer Fluid Is there anything more annoying than trying to see through a streaky windshield while your kids are arguing about snacks in the back? ✔️ If your wipers squeak, skip, or smear, it’s time for a new set. ✔️ Top off your washer fluid so you can clear away bugs, pollen, or sudden summer showers with ease. Visibility matters — especially when driving in unfamiliar places or late at night. All the Fluids (Yes, More Than Just Oil) Your vehicle needs more than fuel to function safely. Give these a quick look: Engine oil – clean and at the right level? Coolant – helps prevent overheating on hot summer drives Brake fluid – vital for safe stopping Transmission fluid Windshield washer fluid – yes, again! It’s worth repeating. Don’t stress if you're not sure what you’re looking at — a trusted shop can give these a once-over in minutes. Battery/Alternator Health You don’t want to find out your battery’s on its last leg in the middle of a scenic overlook. Is your car slow to start lately? That’s a sign. Check for corrosion around the terminals. If it’s more than 3 years old, it’s a good idea to have it tested before the trip. A strong alternator keeps everything running — including the air conditioning, charging ports, and navigation. Lights & Signals It's easy to miss a burnt-out bulb, but other drivers rely on your lights to predict what you're doing. Test your headlights (low and high beams), brake lights, turn signals, license plate lights, and hazard lights. Have someone help or do a quick walk-around with your lights on. It’s a fast check that makes a big safety difference, especially when traveling unfamiliar roads. Pack These — Just in Case Even with the best prep, things happen. Having these on hand keeps you ready for whatever the road throws your way: Jumper cables A portable tire inflator Tire pressure gauge Flashlight and extra batteries First aid kit Bottled water and extra snacks Charging cords Blanket or travel towel (multi-use lifesaver!) Pro Tip: Book a Pre-Trip Inspection Want total peace of mind? Bring your car over to Automotive Magic for a quick pre-trip inspection. A professional can check your brakes, alignment, belts, hoses, and everything else you might not have time (or desire) to inspect yourself. It’s fast, affordable, and worth it. We recommend scheduling your appointment a week in advance to make sure any repairs will be done in time for your trip! You’ve packed the bags, planned the route, and made a solid snack strategy — don’t let a simple car issue sideline your trip. A little preparation today means fewer surprises tomorrow and a lot more time for family fun, scenic photos, and unforgettable memories! Happy travels — and here’s to making memories (not emergency stops)!
June 23, 2025
What’s Changing and Why It Matters
By Automotive Magic June 16, 2025
Expert auto diagnostics & inspections in Kenvil at Automotive Magic. Trust your car with our skilled team. Visit us today for reliable service!
June 12, 2025
Hot Summer Month = Coolant Issues
June 6, 2025
When your vehicle is properly aligned, driving feels smooth, steering is effortless, and your tires wear evenly. But when something’s off—literally—your vehicle will start to give you hints. Alignment issues might seem minor at first, but ignoring them can lead to bigger problems, like accelerated tire wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and even unsafe driving conditions. At Automotive Magic, we believe in catching small problems before they become big ones. Here are the key signs that your alignment may need professional attention:
May 25, 2025
Scouts earn Automotive Maintenance Merit Badge
By Automotive Magic May 21, 2025
Discover outstanding brake repair at Automotive Magic in Kenvil, NJ. Our team ensures safety with top-notch services. Schedule an online appointment now!
AC Machine
May 16, 2025
Summer is almost here—and with it comes road trips, beach days, and unfortunately, sweltering car rides if your air conditioning isn’t up to par. Your A/C system isn’t just about comfort; when it’s blazing hot, it's a necessity. That’s why now is the perfect time to make sure your vehicle’s air conditioning is ready for the heat ahead.
May 5, 2025
Not sure if AWD or 4x4 is right for you? Learn the difference between All-Wheel Drive and Four-Wheel Drive, how each system works, and which suits your lifestyle best. Expert advice from Automotive Magic.
April 30, 2025
Here's What You Need to Know (And Why It Matters)
More Posts