Each year, the most common car breakdown causes reported by roadside assistance providers can vary slightly, but on average, the top ten causes over the last few years include:
1. Dead or Weak Battery
Batteries typically fail every 5 years due to age and inefficiency, with extremes in temperature accelerating the process. To avoid this:
- Regularly check and tighten battery terminals, and keep them free from corrosion.
- Keep the battery clean and dry.
- Take occasional long drives to fully charge the battery.
- Turn off all electrical equipment before starting the engine.
- Check the alternator belt tension.
- Have the battery tested annually and at the first sign of trouble.
2. Flat Tire or Other Tire/Wheel Damage
While flat tires from road debris are often unavoidable, premature wear and blowouts can be prevented by:
- Regularly checking tire pressures and conditions, including the spare tire.
- Adjusting tire pressures for heavier loads and reverting to normal when unloaded.
- Inspecting the tire and wheel after hitting a curb.
- Carrying tire repair foam.
- Ensuring the jack, lug wrench, and any necessary tools are in the car and you know how to use them.
3. Alternator Faults
The alternator charges the battery, and if it fails, the battery will quickly drain. Warning signs include:
- Weak battery issues and dim headlights when the engine is running.
- Squealing under the hood, indicating a slipping alternator belt.
- A flickering charging warning light at idle.
- A steady charging warning light while driving, indicating the system isn’t charging properly.
4. Starter Motor Failure
Starter motor issues can range from 50,000 to 250,000 miles. Signs of failure include:
- Grinding noises when starting the engine.
- Slow engine turnover, which might also indicate a battery problem.
- A clicking sound without the engine turning over, which might also indicate a battery issue.
5. Distributor Cap or Ignition Rotor Problems
Mostly applicable to older or certain modern cars, signs of trouble include:
- Engine misfiring, especially when accelerating or driving uphill.
- Rough running in damp weather.
- Difficulty starting the engine, particularly in damp conditions.
6. Running Out of Gas or Using the Wrong Fuel
Common yet avoidable issues include:
- Filling up before long journeys and in cold or dark conditions.
- Monitoring fuel levels and filling up before the warning light comes on.
- Knowing the type of fuel required for any new, rental, or borrowed car.
- Avoiding putting gasoline in diesel engines; if it happens, don’t start the car and have the tank drained by a mechanic.
7. Broken Clutch Cables
Relevant to manual cars, signs of potential failure include:
- Strange clutch feel or increased effort needed to press the pedal.
- Unusual pedal positions.
- Gear grinding when changing, indicating a stretched cable.
8. Fouled Spark Plugs
Applicable to older cars or high-mileage modern vehicles, signs include:
- Engine misfiring, especially when accelerating.
- Rough idle that smooths out as the engine warms.
- Difficulty starting in damp weather.
9. Bad Ignition Wires/Coil Packs
Common in older cars, signs include:
- Engine misfiring, especially when accelerating.
- Difficulty starting in damp conditions.
- Rough running in wet weather.
10. Leaking Cylinder Head Gasket
A serious issue requiring major engine work, signs include:
- White exhaust smoke.
- Reduced engine power.
- Constant need for oil or coolant refills.
- Oil or coolant appearing frothy, indicating contamination.
Experiencing a vehicle breakdown can be stressful, but knowing the common causes can help you stay prepared. Over the years, the top reasons for roadside assistance calls have remained fairly consistent. From dead batteries and flat tires to alternator faults and starter motor failures, understanding these issues and their warning signs can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns. Regular maintenance, proper vehicle care, and knowing what to look out for are key to staying safe on the road. For more information and tips on how to prevent these common problems, read our full article.
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