Breaking down is something we least expect to happen to us, yet it happens more often than you’d expect. At Reds Recovery, we attend callouts all over Kent, and the same issues pop up time and time again. The good news is, most breakdowns can either be avoided with a little maintenance or sorted quickly if you know who to call.
Here are the most common reasons cars break down, and a few tips on how to avoid them.
1. Flat or Damaged Tires
Tyre problems are one of the leading causes of breakdowns. Whether it’s a puncture, worn tread, or driving on underinflated tyres, they can quickly leave you stranded.
How to avoid it:
- Check your tire pressures regularly.
- Look for signs of damage or uneven wear.
- Replace tyres before they get too worn down.
If you do find yourself stuck with a flat, don’t risk changing it on a busy road. Call a breakdown recovery service in Kent like Reds Recovery, and we’ll get you to safety.
2. Dead Batteries
Car batteries don’t last forever. Cold mornings, short journeys, or just old age can leave you with a car that won’t start. This is especially common in winter when batteries are under more strain.
How to avoid it:
- If your car struggles to start or the electrics feel weak, get the battery tested.
- Avoid leaving lights or electronics running when the engine’s off.
- Replace your battery every few years before it fails completely.
If your car won’t start at home, Reds Recovery can come out and help, saving you the hassle of trying to jump-start it yourself.
3. Running Out of Fuel
Running out of petrol or diesel is still one of the most common reasons people call for help. Usuall it’s misjudging the range, sometimes it’s rushing and forgetting to stop. Either way, it leaves you stuck.
How to avoid it:
- Don’t rely on the fuel light, fill up when you hit a quarter of a tank.
- Plan your journeys if you’re driving somewhere remote.
If it does happen, our vehicle recovery team in Kent can get to you quickly and tow you somewhere safe.
4. Alternator or Starter Motor Faults
These aren’t always easy to spot before they fail, but when they do, they’ll stop your car in its tracks. The alternator charges the battery while you drive, and the starter motor gets the engine going. If either fails, you’re not going anywhere.
How to avoid it:
- Pay attention to warning lights on the dash.
- If your car is struggling to start or the electrics are flickering, get it checked by a garage.
When these faults strike, roadside repairs aren’t usually an option. That’s where a recovery truck in Kent comes in handy, we can get your vehicle to a garage that can sort it properly.
5. Overheating
Engines overheat when the cooling system fails, usually because of low coolant, a leak, or a faulty thermostat. If you ignore the warning lights, you risk serious damage.
How to avoid it:
- Check your coolant level regularly.
- Stop immediately if you see the temperature warning light come on.
- Get any leaks sorted before they cause bigger problems.
If your car overheats, don’t keep driving, pull over safely and call for recovery.
A lot of breakdowns can be avoided with basic maintenance, but sometimes things go wrong no matter how careful you are. When that happens, knowing who to call makes all the difference.
At Reds Recovery, we provide:
- Fast response times across Kent.
- 24/7 breakdown and recovery for cars, vans, and light commercial vehicles.
- Friendly, professional drivers who make a stressful situation easier.