Driving & Maintenance

Vehicle Breakdowns: How To Avoid Them

Updated 30 September 2025

Car breakdowns always seem to happen at the worst times, but many can be prevented with simple routine checks. An RAC survey revealed that only 19% of drivers always ensure their cars are road-ready before a journey. Worryingly, 30% admit they never check at all—leaving themselves far more vulnerable to costly and inconvenient roadside problems.

Here are the essential checks every driver should be doing to reduce the risk of a breakdown.

Keep Your Tank Topped Up

Always fill up before a long journey.
Don’t rely entirely on the “miles left” display—it isn’t always accurate.
Motorway service stations can be far apart, so plan fuel stops in advance.

Maintain Correct Coolant Levels

Check coolant regularly using the reservoir in your engine bay (refer to your car’s handbook for its location).
If levels are low, have the system inspected by a garage.
Never open the coolant cap when the engine is hot—wait until it has cooled fully.

Prevent Flat Batteries

Drive your vehicle for at least 30 minutes each week to recharge the battery.
Replace batteries that are over five years old to avoid sudden failure.
Always switch off lights, stereo, and accessories before exiting the vehicle.
Consider keeping jump leads or a portable jump starter in your boot.

Inspect Your Tyres Frequently

Check pressure, tread depth, and condition on all four tyres—and don’t forget the spare!
The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, but in winter a depth of 3mm provides better safety and grip.
Damaged or underinflated tyres are a leading cause of motorway breakdowns.

Spot Early Signs of Clutch Issues

A failing clutch often gives warning signs long before it breaks.

If the car judders when you lift the pedal to pull away, the clutch may be worn.
If you accelerate and see revs rise without gaining speed, this is another common clutch fault.

Book an inspection straight away if you notice these symptoms—clutch repairs cost less if caught early.

Check and Top Up Engine Oil

Use the dipstick to ensure levels sit between the minimum and maximum marks.
Top up immediately if oil is low, using the correct type (check your owner’s handbook).
Oil reduces heat and friction—running dry can cause catastrophic engine damage.
If the oil warning light comes on:
- Pull over immediately.
- Check under the car for leaks.
- If leaking, call for recovery. If not, top up with suitable engine oil before driving again.

Read Next:
How To Check Your Engine Oil

Stay on Top of Services and MOTs

Regular servicing helps identify faults before they cause breakdowns.
A full service history also protects your car’s resale value.
Never overlook your MOT—it is a legal requirement as well as a critical safety check.

Conclusion

Car breakdowns are never completely avoidable, but with a routine of simple weekly and monthly checks, you can drastically reduce the chances of being left stranded. Staying on top of fuel, tyres, fluids, and servicing means safer, smoother journeys, and peace of mind behind the wheel.

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