Top 3 causes of a breakdown and how to avoid it

Nobody wants a breakdown

In modern society, everything is lavish and extremely advanced and it’s just the world we live in. Things are evolving at the fastest rate ever and that includes the design of our cars. A lot of drivers get put off doing simple checks on their car because they assume it’ll be too difficult to understand. It is important to at least know the causes of a breakdown. Doing a bit of research could save you a lot of time, money and hassle. Here are 3 checks you can run to avoid being stuck on the side of the road, continue reading to find out more.

1. Overheated engines

It’s thought that overheated engines are a very common reason as to why people get stranded on the side of the road every summer. This is due to hotter temperatures which mean that your car’s coolant system has to operate in warm conditions. The problem with this is that is can expose any weaknesses in the system.

Tip: To avoid this you should check your car’s coolant levels regularly – you can find the reservoir by referring to your vehicle handbook. If it’s running low we recommend getting it checked over at your local garage.

2. Flat batteries

There is a common misconception that car batteries only go flat in the winter months because of the cold temperatures. But there is just as much chance of it happening in summer too. This can be due to using things such as air conditioning and the car sound system. All of this can drain your car battery a lot quicker too.

Tip: To prevent your car battery from going flat we recommend driving your car regularly. If you don’t, your car won’t have an opportunity to regenerate its charge. We suggest driving your car at least once a week for a minimum of 30 minutes. And if your car battery is five years or older you should consider getting it changed.

3. Tyre punctures

Tyres are easily one of the most neglected parts of our cars and are also one of the most important. Flat tyres can be avoided most of the time by doing simple checks – if you don’t all it takes is a small piece of glass or a sharp stone to leave you on the side of the road.

Tip: Checking the air pressure and tread depth on a regular basis can help you keep your tyres in good condition. It can also minimise the chance of acquiring a puncture. We recommend checking your spare tyre regularly too and making sure you have the right tools to change a tyre sitting in the back of your boot (it’s always best to be prepared)!

These are three of the biggest culprits of a breakdown – nobody wants to experience them during their holidays. By following these simple tips you can minimise your risk of a breakdown over the summer. Contact us at Fir Tree Autocentre or book online today! today!