Carfreebies.co.uk:::

Free stuff for people who love driving cars

Why do cars breakdwon? What are the top reasons for having to call out a breakdown company?

Why might you have to call out a breakdown company and what you can do to make sure the most common problems don't happen to you.

Most problems can be avoided by common sense servicing and maintenance of your car.

See also breakdown cover page for details of who sells breakdown cover online

Also what to check before setting off on a journey

• Flat or faulty battery
  Batteries don't last forever - you could expect one to last about 5 years.
  Check terminals are secure, clean and protected from water. Ask for advice if you don't know how to do this.
  Check your cars manual for instructions for your model.
• Lost your keys
  If you've locked yourself out of the car then you will need the spare! Keep it somewhere sensible - if you lose that too you'll need a new key from an authorised dealer.
  
• Problems with tyres and wheels
  We now learn on the driving test about checking the car over before starting a journey. Turning the wheel and checking either side of the tyres will help you spot any problems in advance.
  Check your spare tyre is ok too. Check pressures and tyres for baldness.
• Alternator
  Can cause odd electrical problems like lights being dim when engine is idle. Needs urgent inspection.
• Starter motor.
  Main problem will be the car not starting.
• Fuel problems,
  Make sure you have enough fuel for your journey. Refill in plenty of time and don't under estimate how much you can use stuck in jams.
  Check you're putting the right stuff in at the filling station too!
• The clutch
  You'll notice the clutch losing its bite as it wears. Vital to have it working.
• Spark plugs
  Check car manual for replacement time.
• HT leads
  Your garage should check these for you at the service.