Did you know that around 7,000 vehicles break down every day in the UK? Can you be certain your car won’t become part of this statistic, whether tonight or on your way to an important meeting tomorrow? Breakdowns are an unfortunate part of driving and can happen anywhere, at any time.
At AutoAid, we believe that understanding the main causes of breakdowns and knowing what to do when they occur can make a big difference if you’re stranded at the side of the road. We’ve analysed annual statistics from AutoAid customers and identified the five most common issues. In this article, we’ll explain how to reduce the risk of these breakdowns and what steps to take if they happen. Let’s get started!
Flat Tyre
Flat tyres are one of the most common causes of breakdowns. It may happen due to potholes or sharp objects on the road, or even if they are underinflated.
Here’s what you can do to reduce the risk:
- Maintain your tyre pressure and tread depth to always meet safety standards.
- Check your tyres for any signs of damage—such as cuts, cracks, or bulges—before refuelling.
- Drive carefully and avoid potholes or hazards whenever possible.
What to do if you find yourself with a flat tyre:
- Move to a safe place, such as a hard shoulder or lay-by, away from traffic.
- If you have a spare tyre or repair kit and know how to use it, you might be able to fix the problem yourself in some cases.
- If not, having breakdown cover ensures that a technician can help replace your tyre or recover your car to a nearby garage.
Loss of Power or Won’t Start
This can happen for a variety of reasons, like fuel problems, electrical issues, or even just running out of fuel.
To avoid this issue, you should:
- Don’t drive on low fuel and keep your tank topped up.
- Have your car serviced regularly to spot any electrical or mechanical issues.
- Pay attention to warning lights and unusual sounds.
What to do if your car cuts out or refuses to start:
- Make sure there’s fuel in the tank and check for obvious issues like loose battery connections.
- Turn the car off and wait. Sometimes, a quick reset can resolve the issue.
- If it still doesn’t work, breakdown cover means you can get professional help quickly, whether it’s a simple fix or a trip to the garage.
Battery Problems
Battery problems are especially common in colder months. That’s why it’s important to watch out for warning signs like dim headlights or a slow-starting engine.
Here’s how you can avoid a flat battery:
- Check your battery regularly, especially if it’s more than three years old.
- Keep the terminals clean to prevent corrosion.
- Switch off electronics such as lights or the radio when the engine is off.
If your car won’t start due to a dead battery, you can:
- Try jump-starting if you have the equipment and know-how.
- Avoid repeated attempts to start the car as it can drain the battery further.
- Breakdown cover ensures you get roadside assistance if the battery needs replacing or further attention.
Engine Turns Over but Won’t Start
This could be down to ignition issues, faulty sensors, or fuel problems. Regular servicing can help spot these early.
To reduce the risk:
- Use high-quality fuel to prevent clogging or damage to engine components.
- Keep your car well-maintained by following the manufacturer’s service schedule.
If your engine fails to start:
- Wait a moment before trying again to avoid straining the starter motor.
- Check the fuel and ignition system for obvious issues like a disconnected spark plug.
- If you’re not sure what’s wrong, breakdown cover can get a technician to diagnose the issue or take your car to a garage.
Issues with Gearbox or Clutch
Gearbox and clutch issues tend to develop gradually, with symptoms such as slipping gears, grinding noises, or difficulty shifting.
To keep them in good shape:
- Avoid riding the clutch or leaving your foot on it in stop-start traffic.
- Change gears smoothly to avoid unnecessary strain on your car
- Stick to regular maintenance to catch signs of wear and tear before they become serious.
If your gearbox or clutch gives out:
- Pull over to a safe spot and avoid trying to force the car to move—it could cause more damage.
- With breakdown cover, you can get your car recovered to a trusted garage where experts can sort out the repairs.
Why Breakdown Cover is Important
No matter how prepared you are, a breakdown can still happen. Don’t want to face these challenges alone? Consider AutoAid breakdown cover, which gives you the reassurance that help is just a call away. Drive with confidence and let AutoAid take care of any unexpected issues!
