Common Causes of Roadside Breakdowns and How to Prevent Them
Breaking down while on the road cause major problems. You could find yourself stuck on a highway surrounded by heavy traffic or at the side of the road in the middle of nowhere. Below is a guide to some of the most common causes of roadside breakdowns and ways you can prevent them.
Car Battery
Problems with your car battery will normally prevent you from starting the car engine; however, it is possible for battery problems to affect your car mid-drive. The most likely cause of battery problems when out on the road are loose connections or battery clamps. If the cables which carry the power from your battery to the rest of the car or which connect your car's alternator and the battery become loose, it is possible you will lose all electrical power. To prevent this, you should periodically check that your car battery's connections and clamps are securely fastened.
Fuel
Running out of fuel is a leading cause of roadside breakdowns. Before setting out, you should ensure you have adequate fuel for your journey. If you are travelling in remote outback areas, to prevent your car from running out of fuel, you should stop to refuel your car at every opportunity. Another cause of roadside breakdowns is a fuel line leak. Fuel leaks present a fire hazard and create an environmental hazard. You should have you car serviced on a regular basis to ensure that the fuel line is in good condition.
Air filter
If the air filter on your car becomes dirty, this can cause engine emissions to re-enter the engine system. This creates additional strain on the engine, which can cause it to fail. To avoid this problem, you should ask the mechanic who services your car to check the air filter and to replace it if necessary.
Tyres
A flat tyre is another common cause of roadside breakdowns. Before setting off on a long journey, you should inspect your tyres for signs of damage. If a tyre becomes flat while out on the road, you should pull over as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your car. You should carry a spare tyre in your car and familiarise yourself with how to change it.
If you have any concerns about the condition of your car, you should have it inspected by an auto mechanic. They will be able to locate any problems and carry out the necessary repairs.
