Common Reasons for Highway Breakdowns and How to Prevent Them

Driving on the highway can be stressful, especially when you encounter unexpected breakdowns. While driving at high speeds can exacerbate certain issues, a car can break down for various reasons even under normal conditions. Understanding these common causes and taking preventive measures can help you avoid facing emergency roadside situations.

How Long Have You Got?

There are multiple reasons why a car can break down on the motorway. In many cases, these issues can occur anywhere, but the high speeds on the highway can accelerate the emergence or exacerbation of certain problems. The faster you drive, the harder your car has to work to maintain speed and stability, which puts more strain on individual components. If one part is not in optimal condition, it is more prone to malfunction.

Common Causes of Motorway Breakdowns

1. Overheating

One of the most common reasons for a car to break down on the highway is overheating. This typically results from a lack of oil or coolant, which are essential for regulating the engine's temperature. If there is a complete lack of any fluid, a leak is the usual culprit.

Solution:

Regular servicing is crucial to detect leaks and problems before you lose all the fluid and overheat. Check regularly for fluid levels and top up as necessary. Consider investing in a monitoring system to alert you to potential overheating issues.

2. Blown Tyre

Another frequent cause of motorway breakdowns is a blown tyre. The risk increases if your tyres are more than ten years old or if they show signs of damage. High-speed driving can result in tire blowouts, making regular inspections and tire replacement essential.

Solution:

Check the age of your tyres. Most tyres have a week and year of manufacture date on the sidewall (e.g., 1816 means the 18th week of 2016). Replace your tyres every 4-6 years to prevent rubber perishing and reduce the risk of blowouts. Inspect tyres for damages and replace them if necessary.

3. Engine Warning Light

The engine warning light is a sign of a malfunction, but it can be challenging to diagnose the exact issue without specialized equipment. This warning could indicate anything from a malfunctioning sensor to a serious mechanical problem.

Solution:

Contact your recovery provider for a professional diagnosis. Their diagnostic machine will help identify the problem and suggest a fix. Follow their advice to prevent further damage and costly repairs.

4. Part Breaks or Fails

Various components like the suspension, steering, spark plugs, cambelt, and brakes can break or fail if the car is not adequately maintained. Continuing to use a vehicle with these issues can lead to further damage and expensive repairs.

Solution:

Book regular services and follow the advice of the technicians. Know the replacement intervals for brake pads, clutch, cambelt, and other critical parts. Keep an eye on the condition of these components and replace them as needed.

In conclusion, while unexpected breakdowns can happen, taking preventive measures can go a long way in avoiding roadside emergencies. Regular maintenance, prompt attention to warning signals, and understanding the condition of critical components are key to keeping your car in good working order.