A Guide to Dealing with Car Breakdown

Posted on: Jul 17, 2023 | | Written by:

A Guide to Dealing with Car Breakdown

Published on July 17, 2023. EST READ TIME: 4 minutes

You're driving along a busy highway, feeling confident and in control. Feels great, right? But what happens when suddenly your car decides to throw a tantrum and breaks down? Cue the panic and frustration. We've all been there, and a car breakdown is definitely not a situation anyone wants to find themselves in. But fear not! In this article, we're going to equip you with the knowledge and skills to handle a car breakdown like a pro. We'll dive into practical steps you should take when your car decides to misbehave, as well as share valuable tips on how to prevent breakdowns from happening in the first place. So buckle up and get ready to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to dealing with car breakdowns.

What to Do in the Case of Car Breakdown?

Activating Emergency Lights

If you find yourself in a car breakdown situation, the first step is to turn on your hazard or emergency lights. This will alert other drivers that you are experiencing difficulties and need assistance.

Pulling Off the Road Safely

Slow down your vehicle and carefully move it to the side of the road. It's crucial to find a safe spot away from traffic to prevent any further complications or accidents.

Applying the Emergency Brake

To ensure your vehicle doesn't roll into traffic, especially in hilly or sloping areas, engage the emergency or parking brake. This will help prevent any potential accidents.

Safety Inside the Vehicle

If you're stranded in an unfamiliar or unsafe location, it's generally safer to remain inside your vehicle. However, if necessary, move to a secure area before inspecting or fixing the issue. Ensure the road is clear and exit through the passenger door if parked on the right side of the road.

Increasing Visibility

To alert other drivers and raise awareness about your breakdown, prop up your vehicle's hood to make it more visible. You can also place flares or reflective triangles behind your vehicle. These measures will help ensure that passing drivers exercise caution.

Seeking Help and Roadside Assistance Options

If you often worry about being stranded, it may be worth investing in a car insurance policy that includes roadside assistance. These plans typically include services such as jump starts, towing, fuel delivery, and lockout assistance. Purchase your own damage car insurance plan to have peace of mind during unexpected breakdowns.

How to Prevent a Car Breakdown?

Carrying an Emergency Kit

To be prepared for unexpected breakdowns, it's advisable to have an emergency kit in your car's trunk. Include items such as a first aid kit, non-perishable food, water, basic car tools, jumper cables, and the contact details of your car-care services and insurance provider.

Maintaining the Car Battery

A weak battery can often lead to starting issues. To prevent a breakdown, have your car's battery checked by a professional if you notice any difficulties. Additionally, turning off the ignition and lights when not driving can help prolong the battery's life.

Checking and Topping Up Engine Oil

Regularly check your car's engine oil level. If you notice it dropping or see the engine oil light illuminated, pull over and investigate the issue. Driving with insufficient oil can lead to breakdowns, so address it promptly.

Importance of Regular Car Servicing

Schedule regular servicing for your car, especially if you frequently drive under poor road conditions. Comprehensive servicing every six months and timely MOTs can help identify potential issues and prevent breakdowns.

Driving Tips for Avoiding Breakdowns

Practice smooth driving techniques and avoid extreme weather conditions whenever possible. Harsh braking and clutch riding can wear down car components, leading to breakdowns. Drive responsibly and maintain a safe driving style.

Monitoring Water Level and Temperature

Before embarking on a trip, check your car's radiator water level and ensure it's at the maximum level. Monitor the temperature gauge during your journey and address any overheating issues promptly.

Importance of Air Filter Maintenance

Regularly clean your car's air filter to prevent excessive dust accumulation. A clean air filter ensures proper airflow and improves road safety by keeping your car's systems clean and functioning optimally.

Avoiding Overloading the Vehicle

Respect your vehicle's load capacity and avoid overloading it with excessive weight. Overloading puts strain on the brakes, suspension, and overall performance, increasing the risk of breakdowns.

Paying Attention to Warning Signs

Don't ignore warning signs such as unusual noises, smells, or dashboard warning lights. Promptly address these issues by consulting experts or visiting a car workshop. Ignoring warning signs can lead to more serious breakdowns and costly repairs. You can even invest in a zero depreciation car insurance policy for better financial cover for your car.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of a car breakdown?

A car breakdown can be caused by various factors, with a common one being a worn-out battery that prevents ignition.

How to prevent brake failure in cars?

Smooth and careful driving habits can help prevent brake failure. Avoid sudden and hard braking, and ensure regular car servicing to maintain the health of your braking system.

Conclusion

A car breakdown can catch us off guard, but we can lower the odds by heeding these tips. Stay prepared, keep calm, and take proactive measures for road safety. Acting beforehand and promptly addressing warning signals can minimise the hassles and dangers of a car breakdown. Implementing preventive actions and staying alert can significantly reduce the chances of experiencing such incidents, making our journeys smoother and stress-free. Remember, being proactive is key to avoiding breakdowns, so let's prioritise our safety and enjoy the road without unnecessary inconvenience.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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