How Can I Avoid a Car Breakdown? | Breakdown Cover Insights

In the UK, car breakdowns are still a common occurrence. National Highways reported that, in 2024, there were just under 283,000 reported breakdowns on the UK’s motorways and major A roads, many of which could have been avoided with routine checks and regular maintenance. Although some car breakdowns are unavoidable, some can easily be prevented with the right checks, and matters can be made much easier with a breakdown cover policy in place.

Our guide will explore the most common causes of car breakdowns in the UK, as well as the signs to look out for if your car is on the verge of breaking down. We will also highlight how you can help prevent a breakdown, and how you can choose the best breakdown policy for you.

What is the Most Common Cause of Car Breakdowns in the UK?

The most common causes of car breakdowns in the UK include:

• Flat battery: this is the top cause, especially in cold weather and after short trips. Drivers often drain batteries by leaving lights/electrics on or through lack of use.
• Tyre issues (punctures, damaged tyres, no spare): tyre problems are extremely common, particularly with more cars now sold without spares.
• Engine problems: covers issues like engines failing to start, overheating, or power loss.
• Electrical faults (other than battery): problems with sensors, wiring, or charging systems can lead to breakdowns.
• Low or incorrect fluid levels: such as coolant or oil, which can contribute to overheating or engine damage if neglected.
• Lost or broken keys: misplaced keys or locking them inside the car can leave drivers stranded.
• Fuel-related problems (e.g., running out of fuel): less frequent than mechanical/electrical issues but still a notable cause.
• Transmission/wear-related issues: especially on higher-mileage or poorly serviced vehicles.

Breaking down, especially in an unfamiliar location, can be a stressful experience. Having breakdown cover in place can give you peace of mind when out on the road.

Can You Tell When Your Car is Going to Break Down?

While you can’t predict every breakdown, cars usually give warning signs before something serious goes wrong. Unusual noises, such as grinding, squealing or knocking, often indicate worn components like brakes, bearings or the engine itself. You might also notice changes in how the car drives, such as vibrations through the steering wheel, slow acceleration, difficulty starting, or the engine hesitating under load. Dashboard warning lights are major clues too; even if the car still feels normal, ignoring lights for oil pressure, battery charge or engine management can lead to sudden failure.

Regular checks can help you catch problems early. Keep an eye on fluid levels, especially oil and coolant, as low levels can cause overheating or engine damage. Look for leaks under the car, inspect tyres for uneven wear or bulges, and listen for any change in how the engine sounds when idling. If your car begins to smell unusual, it’s best to have it inspected promptly. Consistent servicing and addressing small issues early are the best ways to reduce the risk of an unexpected breakdown.

How Can I Make Sure My Car Doesn’t Break Down?

There are ways you can try and prevent your car from breaking down, including:

• Keeping up with regular servicing: follow the manufacturer’s service schedule to catch problems early.
• Check fluids regularly: monitor oil, coolant, and brake fluid, topping up when needed.
• Look after the battery: avoid lots of short journeys, switch electrics off when parked, and replace ageing batteries before they fail. Leaving the lights on is a common reason why cars break down.
• Inspect tyres often: check tyre pressure and tread depth, and look for cuts or bulges.
• Pay attention to warning signs: don’t ignore dashboard lights, unusual noises, vibrations or smells.
• Prepare for the seasons: cold weather stresses batteries and tyres, so do extra checks in winter. It may also be a good idea to get winter tyres in place to avoid accidents as well as breakdowns.

Breakdown cover can give you peace of mind when you’re out on the road, and doesn’t have to cost too much money. Build your breakdown policy quote here.

Choosing a Vehicle Breakdown Policy

When choosing a car breakdown policy, it’s important to look beyond the overall price and understand exactly what level of breakdown cover you’re getting. Key points to consider include:

• Level of cover: check whether the policy includes roadside assistance only, or also home start, recovery to a destination of your choice, and onward travel if your car can’t be fixed quickly.
• Vehicle eligibility and age limits: some policies exclude older or higher-mileage vehicles, or may charge extra for them.
• Cover for common faults: make sure the policy covers likely issues such as battery failure, tyre problems and electrical faults, as these are among the most frequent causes of breakdowns.
• Onward travel options: some policies include alternative transport or overnight accommodation if repairs can’t be completed promptly.
• European cover: if you plan to drive abroad, confirm whether European breakdown assistance is included or available as an add-on.
• Customer service and response times: reviews and independent ratings can give a good indication of how quickly help arrives when you need it most. At ALA, we have an impressive 4.9 star rating out of over 21k reviews on Trustpilot (as of December 2025), so you can rely on our service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Regular Maintenance Checks Do I Need to Carry Out to Prevent My Car Breaking Down?

Regularly check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and screen wash, along with tyre pressure and tread depth. It’s also wise to keep an eye on your battery’s condition and look for any warning lights or unusual noises.

How Often Should I Service My Car to Reduce the Risk of Breakdowns?

Most cars should be serviced once a year or every 10,000–12,000 miles, whichever comes first. Always follow the manufacturer’s service schedule, especially if you do a lot of short journeys.

Which Car Warning Signs Should I Never Ignore to Avoid a Breakdown?

Never ignore dashboard warning lights, difficulty starting, overheating, unusual smells, or strange noises such as grinding or knocking. These often indicate issues that can quickly lead to a breakdown if left unchecked.

What Should I Keep in My Car in Case of a Breakdown?

Keep a high-visibility jacket, warning triangle, torch, phone charger, first aid kit and warm clothing. It’s also helpful to have your breakdown provider’s details easily accessible.

How Does Hot or Cold Weather Affect My Chance of a Breakdown?

Cold weather puts extra strain on batteries, tyres and fluids, while hot weather can increase the risk of overheating and coolant loss. Seasonal checks can help reduce these risks.

Do Older Cars Break Down More Often?

Older cars can be more prone to breakdowns due to wear and tear, but regular servicing and good maintenance can make them just as reliable as newer vehicles.

Is it Better to Use Breakdown Cover or Rely on My Own Prevention Strategies?

Prevention is essential, but breakdown cover provides a vital safety net when problems occur unexpectedly. Using both together offers the best protection and peace of mind.