1. Flat or faulty battery

A flat battery is consistently the number one cause of breakdown callouts in the UK.

Common reasons include:

• Leaving lights on overnight

• Short journeys that don’t fully recharge the battery

• Cold winter temperatures

• An ageing battery (most last 3–5 years)

Modern cars rely heavily on electrical systems, so even a slightly weakened battery can prevent the engine from starting.

Prevention tip:
If your battery is over three years old, consider having it tested before winter.

2. Tyre problems

Punctures, blowouts and worn tyres are another major cause of roadside incidents.

Tyre-related breakdowns often happen due to:

• Driving over debris or potholes

• Incorrect tyre pressure

• Worn tread below the legal limit (1.6mm in the UK)

• Damaged sidewalls

Many newer cars no longer carry a spare wheel, which makes roadside assistance even more important.

Prevention tip:
Check tyre pressure monthly and inspect tread regularly.

3. Engine overheating

An overheating engine can quickly lead to a breakdown — and potentially serious engine damage if ignored.

Common causes include:

• Low coolant levels

• Leaking hoses

• Faulty water pumps

• Radiator issues

Warning signs may include rising temperature gauges or steam from under the bonnet.

Prevention tip:
Check coolant levels periodically and service your vehicle in line with manufacturer recommendations.

4. Alternator failure

The alternator charges your battery while the engine is running. If it fails, the battery will quickly drain — often leaving you stranded.

Signs of alternator trouble:

• Dim or flickering lights

• Warning lights on the dashboard

• Electrical malfunctions

Because alternator failure can mimic battery issues, professional diagnosis is often needed.

5. Starter motor problems

If you turn the key (or press the start button) and hear a clicking noise but the engine won’t start, the starter motor could be the issue.

Wear and tear over time is usually to blame.

6. Fuel-related issues

It happens more often than you might think — drivers running out of fuel or accidentally filling up with the wrong type.

Misfuelling (for example, putting petrol into a diesel car) can cause serious engine damage if the vehicle is started.

Prevention tip:
Double-check the fuel pump label before filling up, especially if driving a new or hire vehicle.

7. Clutch failure

Clutch wear is common in vehicles that spend a lot of time in heavy traffic or urban driving conditions.

Symptoms include:

• Slipping gears

• Burning smells

• Difficulty changing gear

Clutch repairs can be costly, making breakdown cover particularly valuable.

8. Electrical faults

Modern vehicles are more complex than ever. Electrical issues can affect:

• Central locking

• Immobilisers

• Engine management systems

• Sensors

Even minor electrical faults can prevent a car from starting.

Seasonal factors and breakdowns

Breakdowns are not evenly spread throughout the year.

• Winter increases battery failures and frozen components.

• Summer can trigger overheating issues during long motorway journeys.

Preparing your vehicle before extreme weather can significantly reduce your risk.

How to reduce your risk of breaking down

While not all breakdowns are preventable, you can lower your chances by:

• Servicing your vehicle regularly

• Checking tyres and fluid levels

• Replacing ageing batteries

• Addressing dashboard warning lights promptly

• Avoiding very low fuel levels

Even with good maintenance, unexpected faults can still happen — which is why having reliable breakdown cover is important.

Why breakdown cover matters

No driver plans to break down. But when it happens, the right cover can mean:

• Roadside repairs

• Vehicle recovery to a garage

• Home start assistance

• National recovery

• European cover (if travelling abroad)

Without cover, recovery costs can be significantly higher than the annual premium of many policies.

Now you are in the know

The most common causes of breakdowns are often linked to everyday wear and tear, particularly batteries, tyres and cooling systems.

Regular maintenance reduces your risk, but it doesn’t eliminate it entirely. Having suitable breakdown cover in place ensures that if something does go wrong, you’re not left stranded.

If you’re reviewing your options, compare breakdown cover providers carefully to make sure the policy matches your driving habits and needs.