How to Handle Vehicle Breakdowns and Towing at BNA

Breakdowns and towing questions can catch travelers off guard at Nashville International Airport. Here's what to know if your vehicle won't start, or you're unsure whether your car was towed.

Parking Garages at BNA

BNA's parking garages have posted clearance limits that vary by structure and level — always check the posted clearance signs at each entrance, especially if you drive a taller vehicle. If your vehicle breaks down deep inside a garage, a standard tow truck may not be able to reach it, and a towing company may need to use low-profile equipment or dollies to move the vehicle to an accessible area.

When you call (615) 756-5330 for help at the airport, letting the dispatcher know your exact location, level, and any clearance restrictions helps them send the right equipment.

Why Cars Die at the Airport

Vehicles that sit unused for an extended period, such as during a trip, are more prone to battery and tire issues. Cold weather reduces battery performance, and systems that draw power even when the engine is off can drain a battery over time. A slow tire leak can also become a flat after several days of sitting.

We provide roadside assistance for these situations, including jump starts and tire service, to help get you back on the road after a trip.

Airport Parking Enforcement

Rules around curbside parking, loading zones, and towing enforcement at BNA are set by airport authorities and can change. For current policies on parking restrictions, towing, and vehicle release, check the official BNA website or contact the Metro Nashville Airport Authority directly. If your car isn't where you left it, confirm with airport authorities first to find out if it was towed for a violation before assuming it needs roadside help.

Surface Lots

Surface lots can be large. When calling for help, a specific landmark, such as a row or shuttle stop number, helps a driver find you more easily than a general location.

What to Do If You're Stranded at BNA

1. Stay with your vehicle if it's safe to do so. In a garage, remain near your car; on a busy access road, move behind a guardrail if possible.
2. Note your exact location, including pillar numbers in garages or row numbers in the lots.
3. Check your vehicle's manual if the parking brake won't release with a dead battery — some electronic parking brakes require power to disengage, and a tow operator may need a jump pack to release it safely.
4. Ask airport parking staff whether there are any access rules for outside service vehicles, then call for help.

Low-Clearance Areas

Some parking structures have lower clearance levels where standard-size tow trucks may not fit. Avoid attempting to move a vehicle yourself with a rope or informal tow — towing with the drive wheels on the ground without the engine running can damage the transmission on many vehicles. A smaller, maneuverable tow truck or dolly system is typically needed for tight garage spaces.

Electric and Hybrid Vehicles

If an EV's 12-volt battery (which powers the electronics, separate from the main battery) dies, the vehicle may become inoperable and require specialized handling to access and move. Many EV manufacturers recommend a flatbed rather than a standard tow — check your vehicle's manual for specific guidance, and let the towing company know in advance if you're in a garage, since a flatbed may need the car moved to an accessible area first.

Possible Problems After a Trip

• Dead battery from an interior light left on: A light left on during a long trip can drain the battery.
• Lost or locked-in keys: Vehicle lockout service may help, subject to airport access rules.
• Flat-spotted tires: A tire that's sat flat for an extended period may need to be checked before it's safe to drive on.

Getting Help at BNA

If you're dealing with a car that won't start or move after a flight, note your exact location and call for help.

FAQ

What's the clearance limit for BNA parking garages? Clearance varies by structure and level — check the posted signage at each garage entrance for current limits.

Who do I contact if my car was towed from BNA? Contact the Metro Nashville Airport Authority or check the official BNA website for towing and vehicle release information.

Can an EV be towed normally from a parking garage? Many EVs need flatbed towing; follow your owner's manual and let the towing company know your location in advance.