5 things drivers can do to reduce the risk of a breakdown, and one to avoid

If there’s one thing that’s going to lower the tone of any good away day, it’s not your team losing – it’s your car breaking down.

You’ve got the scarves in the back, the pre-match playlist sorted, and you’re miles from home when the engine suddenly decides to pack it in.

AA breakdown cover, from £5.49 per month

Sitting on the hard shoulder while your mates send you photos from the concourse can be the stuff of nightmares.

But there’s no need to let a mechanical nightmare completely ruin your weekend.

Understanding the most common culprits behind a breakdown and having the right cover can get you back on the road in no time.

What typically causes a car to break down?

Car breakdowns can happen for a whole host of different reasons, but some of the more frustrating culprits tend to pop up more than others.

According to the breakdown specialists over at The AA, there are a few issues that their patrols often see.

One of the most common issues is a flat or failing battery, punctured tyres, electrical problems, or even more complicated engine faults.

They also deal with a massive number of drivers who have simply forgotten to fill up and run out of fuel.

Glowing dashboard warning lights are a good indicator of developing faults, so it’s important to address those problems before they turn into something bigger.

AA specialists point out that a huge chunk of these breakdowns is linked to gradual, everyday wear and tear.

This means regular servicing, maintenance and repairs are an important part of the process to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape.

AA breakdown cover, from £5.49 per month

5 simple steps to reduce the risk of a breakdown – and one to avoid

Putting in a little bit of preventative maintenance before you hit the road can significantly reduce the likelihood of a frustrating breakdown.

Here are some small tips to consider before your next long journey:

• Check your tyres: Inspect tyre pressure and tread depth every couple of weeks to avoid blowouts and ensure maximum grip.
• Top up your fluids: Regularly check under the bonnet to keep your engine oil, coolant, and screenwash at the correct levels.
• Keep an eye on the battery: Watch out for sluggish starting. If your battery is over three years old, get it tested before winter hits.
• Stick to the service schedule: Never skip your annual service. A mechanic will spot wear and tear before it becomes a roadside emergency.
• Don’t run on fumes: Keep your petrol or diesel topped up. Running too low can draw dirt from the bottom of the tank into your fuel filter.

What should you do immediately if your vehicle breaks down?

If your motor gives up the ghost while you’re driving, your absolute priority has to be safety for you and your passengers.

Keep your car as far to the left as you possibly can, coasting to a designated lay-by or refuge area for safety if possible.

Once there, be sure to switch your hazard lights on to inform other motorists of your issues, and then point your wheels away from the road.

If possible, make sure every occupant gets out of the passenger side doors to avoid getting out into oncoming traffic.

The moment you and your mates are safely out of harm’s way, get straight on the phone to your breakdown provider.

The AA patrols strongly advise waiting well clear of any passing traffic while your rescue van is en route.

Ideally, you want to be standing behind a safety barrier or up on an embankment well away from the tarmac.

The experts also reckon it’s a brilliant idea to stash a few simple emergency items in your boot just in case.

Keeping a torch, a portable phone charger, some water, and a high-visibility vest handy can make a massive difference to your safety while you wait.

Who should you contact for roadside assistance?

When the worst happens, there are several national providers, like The AA, offering round-the-clock roadside support to get you out of a sticky situation.

AA Patrols are equipped to deal with many common and advanced roadside issues, including flat batteries, punctured tyres, dodgy electrics and more.

Getting hold of them couldn’t be simpler, too, with the AA app allowing you to share your exact GPS location instantly.

This speeds up response times and allows the companies 27,000 strong patrol service to reach you quicker across the UK.

Do drivers really need breakdown cover?

While breakdown cover isn’t a requirement by law in the UK, a number of motorists consider it to be a must-have.

If you drive an older vehicle or find yourself making longer journeys frequently, breakdown cover offers you peace of mind that if the worst were to happen, you’ll have plenty of support.

Even newer vehicles are susceptible to common breakdown causes such as flat tyres and battery issues, so it’s recommended to make sure your showroom-fresh car is covered.

If you’re looking for a trusty service, The AA provides breakdown cover to around 14.6 million members and its policies are rated five stars by Defaqto.

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