The first Monday of the New Year is notorious for car breakdowns. It’s a day when thousands of drivers return to work after the holiday season, only to be met with the frustrating reality of a vehicle that won’t start. Historically, this day sees record numbers of breakdowns. For instance, on January 4th last year, over 10,388 vehicles were reported as broken down.
The main culprit? Batteries drained from inactivity over the festive period. If you want to avoid being part of this growing statistic, preparation is key. At Car Breakdown Recovery Services, we’ve identified common issues and preventative measures to help you navigate the New Year smoothly.
Why Do Cars Break Down After the Holidays?
Cars left idle for extended periods, especially during cold weather, are more susceptible to breakdowns. Here’s why:
- Battery Discharge
- Batteries gradually lose charge when a car isn’t driven regularly.
- Cold weather amplifies this, as the electrical system works harder to power heating and lighting.
- Increased Electrical Strain
- During winter, starting a car requires more energy due to colder engine components.
- Accessories like heaters, defrosters, and lights drain the battery further.
- Lack of Maintenance
- Vehicles left unchecked during the holidays often develop unnoticed issues, from low oil levels to tyre pressure problems.
Proven Tips to Avoid New Year’s Car Troubles
- Keep Your Battery Charged
- Drive Regularly: Take your car for a 20–30 minute drive at least once a week during the holidays to keep the battery charged. Families with multiple cars should alternate usage.
- Garage Parking: If possible, park your car in a garage to protect it from extreme cold, which can weaken the battery.
- Check and Test Your Battery
- Age Matters: If your battery is over four years old, have it tested to ensure it can hold a charge.
- Inspect Terminals: Ensure battery terminals are clean, tightly connected, and free from corrosion.
- Avoid Quick Starts: Don’t just start your car and turn it off—it won’t fully charge the battery and may cause more harm than good.
- Switch Off Electrical Systems
- Before turning off your car, make sure all systems like lights, heaters, fans, and infotainment devices are off. Leaving these on can drain the battery.
- Fuel Up Early
- Avoid Last-Minute Fill-Ups: Fuel your car a day or two before your first commute to save time and avoid queues at petrol stations.
- Charge While Driving: Use this trip as an opportunity to charge the battery by letting the engine run for a longer duration.
- Inspect Fluids and Tyres
- Fluid Levels: Check oil, coolant, and washer fluid levels. Ensure there are no leaks under the vehicle.
- Tyre Pressure: Cold weather can cause tyres to lose pressure, so inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended levels.
Car Breakdown Recovery Services’ Guidelines for a Smooth Start
At Car Breakdown Recovery Services, we’ve dealt with thousands of New Year’s Day breakdowns, and our patrol teams have the experience to help you avoid joining this statistic. Here’s what we recommend:
- Pre-Holiday Checks: Schedule a service before the festive season to identify any issues.
- Day-Before Prep: Start your car and take it for a short drive to ensure it’s running smoothly.
- Emergency Kit: Keep jump leads, a flashlight, and a portable battery charger in your car for added peace of mind.
The Importance of Preparedness
A little preparation can save you from the stress of starting the New Year stranded on the roadside. The holiday season may be over, but the impact of neglecting your vehicle lingers well into January.
If you find yourself in need of help, remember that Car Breakdown Recovery Services is just a call away. From jump starts to towing, we’re here to ensure your journey starts without a hitch.
Don’t let New Year breakdown blues ruin your return to routine. Follow these tips, stay prepared, and drive into the New Year with confidence.