Breakdown advice

How to avoid and what to do in case of a breakdown?

Breakdowns, no matter when or where they happen, are always an inconvenience. Unfortunately, many people are injured while either waiting for assistance on highways or trying to fix their cars. Being prepared and knowing what to do in a breakdown situation can help keep you safe.

On this page:

Avoiding a breakdown

Don't run out of fuel. The easiest way is to get into the habit of filling when the tank's 2/3 empty rather than waiting for the warning light.
Ensure the car is regularly serviced in line with the manufacturer's recommendations.
Attend to any faults promptly. Don’t wait – they will only get worse and rather won’t go away.
Use only reputable garage – ask relatives or friend for recommendation in your area.
Check fluid levels regularly (not only oil and water – all other fluids as well). This procedure should be carried out at least once a month. Check in the handbook which products should be used if topping-up is required.
Check tyres condition and pressure regularly (including the spare one - the handbook will tell you the correct pressure).
Don’t ignore any warning lights - check the handbook for advice as in some circumstances you can drive on safely.
Always carry spare bulbs and selection of fuses. Make sure you know how to replace them if required.

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Planning your journey - before you go

Plan your journey before you leave and familiarize yourself with the entire route.
In-car navigation systems help but always keep an atlas in your car just in case there is a problem with your Sat-Nav.
Remember to take your mobile phone – make sure it's charged and has sufficient call credit.
Tell your relatives or friends where you are going and when you are planning to return.
Always keep the following items in your car:
- road atlas,
- coat,
- comfortable and sensible shoes,
- blanket,
- torch with charged batteries,
- sensible amount of money,
- car charger for your phone,
- warning triangle,
- reflective vest.
Make sure or external lights and features are fully functional and in working order.
Planning to drive overnight? Be sure you've had sufficient rest. Working all day and trying to drive all night is a recipe for disaster.
Travelling a long way? Make sure there's more than one driver. Change at least every three hours, two during the night. Don't try to be a hero and do it all yourself.
Don't consume a large meal before setting off, as this can make you drowsy.
Don't drink alcohol. At all. Even the night before your journey!
Talk about the journey before you set off. You know you're all going to be in the car for a long time, so agree not to argue and keep a sense of humour.
Prepare games or amusements for children. Hand-held computer games are good (they must have headphones attached in order to not disctract the driver) but take cards and books too.
Don't forget your pets have special needs. Make sure they are comfortable, not too hot, sensibly restrained and that they get an opportunity for a drink and to 'stretch their legs' along with the rest of the family.

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In case of a breakdown

If your car breaks down on a busy highway, try to get it as far away from traffic as possible. If there is an emergency lane, pull onto it. If there is a safe grassy area next to the lane, pull into it.
If possible drive on to a well lit, busy area such as a filling station rather than stopping in a dark, remote spots.
If you experience a flat tyre and there's no safe place to pull over, drive on the rim until you get to a safe area.
Keep doors locked while waiting. A patrol/mechanic will carry proof of identity – ask to see this before opening a window or unlocking your car. If someone stops to offer you help, stay in your car with the doors locked, crack your window and ask them to call for help.
If you can't put the car in a safe area, get away from the car. Your life is more important than your car. On motorways it's much safer to retreat up the bank, or behind a barrier rather than wait in the car.
Keep valuables, briefcase, laptop, handbag and mobile phone out of sight.

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