You’d think with modern technology and engineering, cars today would be more reliable than ever, essentially bullet proof. However, it seems to be opposite. We’re seeing more and more breakdowns from software glitches, battery failures and sensor malfunctions. At Reds Recovery recover just as many brand-new cars as we do old bangers, and that surprises a lot of people So why do these supposedly newer modern vehicles break down more often?
The hidden problems with today’s cars
Modern cars are crammed with tech sensors, touchscreens, driver aids, keyless entry, the lot. While they make driving smoother, they also mean there’s way more that can go wrong. Whilst these are all great helpful additions to a car, there’s generally more to go wrong. Despite being smarter a lot of these features are more sensitive and rely on electronics of which a lot can fail very quickly. Due to complexity of modern cars people falsely believe that newer equals reliable, but that isn’t always the case. Another plethora of reasons why modern cars break down
Top 5 Reasons Modern Cars Break Down
- Flat or faulty batteries. Keyless entry, stop start and infotainment systems can drain battery even while parked and short trips don’t give the alternator enough time to recharge to the battery to full. EVs run fully on 12v Batteries and can fail too.
- Electrical or software failures. Newer cars run on as much software as they do hardware, there’s as much that can go wrong with the software as mechanical issues. Updates can cause temporary system failures and even minor bugs can cause the vehicle to go into the limp mode or even prevent startup.
- `Sensor or ECU failures. ABS, parking sensors or engine management. Just one sensor fault can disable a whole other plethora of systems. Similarly, water ingress, heat or vibration can cause ECU failures.
- AdBlue and Emissions faults. Diesel vehicles are the most common fuel systems in newer cars and will most likely have AdBlue to accompany it. Missed refills and sensor errors can trigger dashboard warnings and potentially prevent startup.
- Electric Handbrake & Locking System Issues. Electric handbrake means no cables; you’re just relying on motors and modules and a faulty electric brake system can completely immobilise your vehicle.
Why Breakdowns Are More Stressful Now
DIY mechanics isn’t a great option anymore, especially with newer cars. Drivers can’t just pop the bonnet and “have a go”. Most faults require diagnostics, so chances are you’re stuck on the motorway waiting for the roadside mechanic or recovery truck. To make things worse, dashboard warning lights are often vague or unclear, leaving drivers confused and unsure what’s gone wrong. Even when you do get it to a garage, main dealers can have long wait time, especially for software-related issues. In some cases, the vehicle won’t even move until it’s had a full system reset.
How Red’s Recovery Handles Modern Vehicles
At Reds Recovery our team is trained to handle EV’s, Hybrids and tech heavy vehicles of any size and weight. We don’t just tow, we investigate and diagnose to ensure that you can easily avoid common mistakes that most people neglect with modern cars. We offer fast stress-free recovery so you can get back on the road asap.
How to Stay Ahead of a Modern Breakdown
So how do you avoid these problems in the first place?
- One of the biggest and most important things you can do is monitor your battery health. Longer journeys will keep your battery charged and sustained.
- You can also make sure that you keep your software up to date. It’s best to update whenever your system prompts you to as it likely contains bug fixes and amendments to certain systems pertaining to the function of your car.
- Watch for subtle warning signs. Most vehicles tend to display warning lights on the dashboard to indicate when a fault is found. Other than the obvious, listen out for strange noises that you’re not used to hearing whilst driving. Listen to whether your car sounds different when starting. Check that all electrical functions are working as they should.
- Regular maintenance is still key. Don’t forget to service your vehicle regularly to avoid any unnecessary issues and keep your car in the best condition possible.
- Lastly, make sure to save Reds Recovery details before you need them.
Cars are getting smarter, but that doesn’t mean breakdowns are a thing of the past. If anything, they’re harder to deal with on your own. That’s where Red’s Recovery has your back. Fast, local, and ready for anything, from old bangers to brand-new EVs. Give us a call on 01634926801