TL;DR: The best way to prevent a car breakdown is to keep up with regular maintenance (oil changes, battery and tire checks, etc.) and address small issues early. Safe driving habits (no hard braking or overloading) also reduce wear on your vehicle. In short, maintenance and caution are key to avoiding most breakdowns. (Need help or a policy with roadside assistance? Call Insure On The Spot at 773-202-5060.)
Few things are more frustrating (or stressful) than a car breaking down at the worst possible time, like when you’re on your way to an important appointment or a long-awaited road trip. The good news is that most breakdowns are preventable. By understanding why cars break down and following some simple preventive steps, you can greatly reduce the odds of being stranded on the side of the road. This guide will walk you through common causes of breakdowns, how to avoid them, and what to do if the unexpected still happens. Let’s dive in with a quick look at why cars break down and then cover how to keep your car running reliably.
What are the most common causes of car breakdowns?
Before we talk prevention, it helps to know why cars break down in the first place. A breakdown usually happens when some part of the vehicle fails or when driving conditions overwhelm an unprepared car. According to automotive data, battery problems are the number one cause of car breakdowns. As we discuss why that is let’s also look at other frequent culprits, like engine overheating, starter or alternator failures, and fuel system troubles in detail below:
Dead or Faulty Battery
Car batteries usually last 3–5 years. If the battery is old or its charge is drained (for example, by leaving lights on), your car might not start at all. A failing battery often gives warning signs like dim headlights or a slow-cranking engine. Since a bad battery will leave you stranded, it’s unsurprisingly the top breakdown cause worldwide.
Tire Problems
A flat tire or blowout can happen from a puncture or even improper tire pressure. Under-inflated or over-inflated tires are more prone to failure; for instance, over-inflation can lead to a blowout. Tires also wear down over time, especially if tread depth is too low or wear is uneven (possibly from poor alignment), a tire can fail suddenly. It’s no surprise that they’re the second most common reasons for breakdowns and towing calls.
Engine Overheating
An overheated engine can shut your car down in a hurry. Basically, it stems from low coolant (antifreeze), cooling system leaks, or a faulty radiator/fan. Hot weather and heavy loads (like towing) make it more likely. In fact, overheating is among the most frequent breakdown causes in summer months. If the engine temperature warning light comes on and you ignore it, you risk a breakdown and engine damage.
Alternator or Starter Failure
The alternator charges your battery while the car runs, so if it fails, the battery will drain and the vehicle can stall. On the other hand, a bad starter motor means your engine may not crank at all. Aging is what usually causes these parts to wear out. Warning signs might include electrical issues (dim lights, battery warning light on) or trouble starting despite a good battery.
Fuel System Issues
Sometimes the problem isn’t the car at all but an empty gas tank! It sounds silly, but running out of fuel or having fuel system trouble is a known cause of breakdowns. A broken fuel pump or a clogged fuel filter can also strand you, but simply running on fumes until the car dies is surprisingly common. (Modern fuel gauges aren’t 100% accurate, so it’s best not to push your luck when low on gas.)
Other Mechanical Failures
Many other parts can break and cause a breakdown, like a snapped serpentine belt, a broken clutch in manual-transmission cars, brake failures, or electronic control unit issues. You’d be surprised that even lost keys or a security system glitch can leave you stuck (lost keys actually rank among top 10 breakdown causes in some statistics). While these issues are less predictable, regular check-ups can catch many of them early.
Edge-Case: Can a brand-new car break down unexpectedly? It’s rare, but yes, even new cars can break down. Manufacturing defects or faulty parts can sometimes lead to an early breakdown (for example, a bad battery or sensor from the factory), but if you keep up with basic maintenance, a recent model should be quite reliable. It’s best not to let your guard down completely with a new car. You should still check the oil, tires, and listen for odd noises.
Edge-Case: Are electric vehicles less likely to break down than gas cars? Generally, electric vehicles (EVs) have fewer points of failure, so they tend to break down less often for mechanical reasons. EVs don’t have complex engines or transmissions with hundreds of moving parts; an EV’s drivetrain is simpler and requires less regular maintenance. A recent study in Germany found that electric cars built in the last five years had a much lower breakdown rate than their combustion-engine counterparts. That said, EVs can still break down – their 12-volt batteries can die, tires can puncture, and electronics can malfunction. Running completely out of charge (“bricking” the car) will also leave an EV stranded (similar to running out of gas). The common enemy for both EVs and gasoline cars is the battery, whether it’s a dead 12V starter battery or a depleted high-voltage battery in an EV. So while EV owners might skip oil changes, they should still care for tires, brakes, and batteries to avoid breakdowns.
What should I do if my car breaks down on the road?
If your car suddenly becomes inoperable while driving, stay calm and prioritize safety. First, turn on your hazard flashers to signal trouble to other drivers. Then carefully steer your vehicle out of traffic and aim for the right shoulder or an exit ramp if on a highway, or at least as far out of the travel lane as possible. Remember, you might instinctively go for the brakes, but rather than abruptly braking in moving traffic gently slow down and get to a safe spot. Once stopped, if you’re on a highway or high-traffic area, it’s usually safest to stay in your car with your seat belt on until help arrives (especially if you cannot get completely off the road). However, if you see/smell smoke or it’s unsafe to remain (e.g. the car is at risk of being hit), carefully exit the vehicle and move away from traffic.
After securing your immediate safety, call for roadside assistance or emergency help, like a towing company or a family member. If you have a roadside assistance membership or auto insurance that includes it, call that number. Insure On The Spot, for example, includes 24/7 nationwide roadside assistance with its auto policies. Roadside assistance can send a professional to help jump-start your battery, change a tire, or tow your car to a garage if needed.
While waiting for help, make your vehicle as visible as possible to others: keep the hazard lights on, and if you have reflective triangles or flares, set them out behind your car (at a safe distance). By doing this you can warn oncoming traffic that you’re stopped. It’s usually not advisable to try fixing a major problem on a highway shoulder because changing a tire on a busy interstate, for instance, can be extremely dangerous due to passing cars. But if you’re on a quieter road and know how to fix the issue (like replacing a flat with your spare tire), ensure you’re well off the road and work from the side away from traffic.
Finally, use this downtime to make any necessary calls (to a friend or relative to let them know the situation) and to stay inside your vehicle if it’s cold or if you feel unsafe outside. In the unfortunate event you’re stuck for a long time, having an emergency kit (with water, flashlight, etc.) in your car is very helpful. Fortunately, if you follow the prevention tips below, your likelihood of a breakdown will drop dramatically.
How can I prevent a car breakdown before it happens?
Now for the most important part: preventing breakdowns. The old saying “prevention is better than cure” is especially true for cars. Routine care and some smart habits can spare you the headache (and cost) of an unexpected tow. Here are practical tips to keep your car running reliably:
Stick to Your Maintenance Schedule
Regular servicing is the number one way to catch problems before they cause a breakdown. During a full service, a mechanic will top up or change vital fluids (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, etc.) and inspect crucial components like brakes, belts, and hoses. This means potential issues can be fixed before they leave you stranded on the roadside. Follow your manufacturer’s recommended service intervals (often every 6 or 12 months).
Check Your Battery and Electrical System
Once your battery is over ~3 years old, have it tested annually (many auto shops will test it for free). Replace the battery proactively every 4–5 years or at the first sign of trouble. Typical warning signs include the engine cranking slowly, electronics (lights, radio) working intermittently, or a battery warning light on your dash. Also, keep the battery connections clean and tight since corroded or loose terminals can cause starting problems.
Another tip for car battery maintenance is to make sure you turn off interior lights, headlights, and accessories when the engine is off to avoid draining the battery. Given that battery issues are the single biggest cause of breakdowns, a little attention here pays off greatly.
Inspect Your Tires Regularly
About once a month (and before any long trip), do a quick tire check to ensure each tire is inflated to the proper PSI (find the recommended tire pressure on the driver’s door jamb or in the manual) and look for damage or wear. You don’t want to drive on under-inflated tires and risk a blowout while also reducing fuel economy and tire lifespan. On the other hand, over-inflation is dangerous too because it increases the chance of a tire bursting if you hit a pothole or in hot weather. You can use a tire gauge to get the pressure right (including the spare tire!).
It’s also important to examine the tread. If it’s very low or unevenly worn, replace the tire or get a wheel alignment as needed. Many breakdowns can be avoided simply by catching a tire issue early, for example, spotting a nail in the rubber before it becomes a flat on the highway.
Don’t Ignore Warning Lights or Weird Noises
Your modern car is probably pretty good at telling you when something’s wrong, so pay attention! If a dashboard warning light comes on (like the check engine, oil pressure, or temperature light), never ignore it. Similarly, strange noises, smells, or changes in how your car drives should be checked promptly. For instance, a screeching noise could mean a worn belt that might snap, and a burning smell could indicate an oil leak or overheated brakes. Additionally, even something like slightly “spongy” brakes or an engine running a bit hotter than usual can forewarn a breakdown. In short, listen to your car.
Practice Good Driving Habits
How you drive day-to-day has a big impact on your vehicle’s health. Aggressive or careless driving will wear out parts much faster. For example, slamming on brakes and constant stop-and-go can overheat your brakes and wear your tires prematurely. Hitting potholes or speed bumps at high speed can damage your suspension, wheels, and alignment in one go. Racing the engine, riding the clutch (in a manual car), or accelerating hard in a high gear all put abnormal strain on the car. Over time, these habits can trigger a breakdown, perhaps a blown tire, a broken axle, or an overheated engine. The simple solution is to drive more gently and attentively. Avoid rapid starts and stops, slow down for bumps and bad roads, and don’t “redline” the engine unnecessarily. Not only does this reduce the chance of breaking something, but you’ll also get better fuel economy and your car will last longer.
Don’t Overload or Overwork Your Vehicle
Pushing your car to its limits too far can lead to mechanical failure. Excess weight puts strain on the engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension. Overloading can cause your engine to run hot and your brakes to overheat, especially on hills. It also wears out tires faster. If you drive a truck or SUV, always abide by its payload and towing capacity (for example, if your pickup can tow 5,000 lbs, do not hitch up a 7,000 lb trailer). Even in everyday use, it’s wise to lighten the load. Don’t use your car’s trunk as a long-term storage unit for heavy junk you don’t need. Removing unnecessary weight reduces strain on critical components (and improves fuel efficiency).
Plan Ahead for Extreme Weather or Long Trips
If you know you’ll be driving in extreme heat or cold, take extra precautions. Heat can push a marginal cooling system over the edge, so before a summer road trip, check your coolant level and make sure the radiator isn’t clogged. Cold weather is tough on batteries and tire pressure. A weak battery may die on the first freezing morning. Have your battery tested before winter, and keep tires properly inflated (cold air contracts, lowering tire pressure). Also, if heading on a long journey, don’t set off with any known car issues. That “funny noise” you’ve been ignoring around town could become a major failure after hours of highway driving. Do a quick pre-trip inspection to test your lights, wipers, and signals, make sure fluid levels are topped up, and carry emergency supplies. Something as simple as a spare fan belt or a bottle of coolant in the trunk can be a trip-saver.
Edge-Case: Can running out of gas cause my car to break down? Absolutely. It might sound obvious, but if you run out of fuel, your car’s engine will stop, which is effectively a breakdown. In fact, major roadside assistance clubs report countless calls from drivers who simply ran out of gas. But this is completely preventable. Make it a habit to fill up before your gauge is nearly on “E,” especially if you’re about to drive a long stretch or through areas without frequent gas stations. Also, if your fuel gauge is faulty or inconsistent, get it fixed because running on fumes can also draw sediment from the bottom of the tank into your fuel filter or pump, potentially causing clogs or damage. With that said, just don’t let an empty tank strand you. It’s an avoidable mistake that can be both embarrassing and hard on your car’s fuel system.
Does my car insurance cover breakdowns or towing?
A common question drivers ask is whether their auto insurance will cover a breakdown or the cost of towing and repairs. What you want to know is that standard car insurance generally does not cover mechanical breakdowns. Typical auto policies are designed to cover accidents, liability, theft, etc., and not the cost of fixing wear-and-tear or mechanical failures. So if your engine blows or your car simply refuses to start one day, the repair bill is usually on you (or on your car’s warranty, if it still has one).
However, many insurers offer additional coverage or services for breakdown situations. One example is roadside assistance coverage or membership. This is often an optional add-on to your policy (or included if you have certain coverage levels). Roadside assistance does help with breakdowns by covering services like towing, battery jump-starts, tire changes, fuel delivery, or lockout service. For instance, if you have Insure On The Spot insurance, you’re entitled to 24/7 emergency roadside help – a tow truck or service vehicle will be dispatched to assist you, usually at no out-of-pocket cost beyond your policy premium. This kind of coverage won’t fix a blown transmission for free, but it will get you safely off the road to a repair shop without a huge towing fee.
But what about the repairs themselves? Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI) is a special type of policy or endorsement that some insurers (and third-party providers) offer. It’s basically insurance for car repairs, typically available for newer vehicles. MBI can cover the cost of fixing certain mechanical failures (engine, drivetrain, etc.) unrelated to accidents. It functions similarly to an extended warranty. If you purchased such coverage, then yes – some breakdown repairs might be covered (after paying a deductible). But regular auto insurance (liability, collision, comprehensive) won’t pay for a new alternator just because the old one died.
For more details on what to do in accident vs. breakdown scenarios, or to explore adding roadside assistance to your policy, visit our Emergency Roadside Assistance page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Car Breakdowns
Q: What are the top causes of car breakdowns?
A: The most frequent culprits are battery failures, tire problems, and engine overheating. Battery issues (especially old or drained batteries) are consistently the #1 cause of breakdowns. Tires come next – blowouts or flats from punctures and under-inflation are very common. Engine troubles like overheating (often due to low coolant or faulty cooling systems) are also a major cause. Beyond these, alternator or starter failures, brake problems, fuel system issues (including empty gas tanks), and clutch/transmission failures in older cars round out the list of top breakdown causes. Many of these can be prevented with regular maintenance and check-ups.
Q: How can I tell if my car is about to break down?
A: Cars usually give warning signs before a complete breakdown. Look and listen for things like: dashboard warning lights (check engine, battery, oil, or temperature lights coming on); unusual noises such as knocking, squealing, or grinding; strange smells like burning oil, fuel, or coolant; or changes in performance (engine misfires, difficulty starting, loss of power, overheated engine, etc.). If the car feels “off” – for instance, if it’s vibrating excessively or the brakes feel spongy – that’s a red flag. Any one of these signs is a cue to get your car inspected ASAP. Often, addressing the issue early will prevent a full breakdown. Modern cars’ computer systems can also store error codes when something’s wrong, so a mechanic’s diagnostic scan tool can tell you if any problems are detected even before you notice symptoms.
Q: How often should I service my car to avoid breakdowns?
A: Follow your manufacturer’s recommended service intervals. For most cars, that means at least a full service once a year (or every 10,000–12,000 miles), whichever comes first. Many car owners also do minor services (like oil & filter changes) every 5,000–7,500 miles, especially if the vehicle is older or driven hard. In addition to annual servicing, you should perform basic monthly checks yourself: oil level, coolant level, tire pressure, etc. If you have a high-mileage vehicle or drive in severe conditions (extreme weather, lots of stop-and-go, towing heavy loads), you may need to service certain components more frequently (e.g., oil changes every 6 months). Always consult the owner’s manual maintenance schedule – it’s tailored to your car’s needs. Sticking to the service schedule will significantly reduce the chance of a breakdown.
Q: Do newer cars need less maintenance to avoid breakdowns?
A: Newer cars generally require the same categories of maintenance (fluids, filters, inspections), but thanks to improved technology they often can go longer between service intervals. For example, many modern cars use long-life engine oil and coolants that last 10,000+ miles, and have maintenance reminders built in. Also, parts in a new car have not experienced much wear yet, so the risk of failure is lower. That said, “low maintenance” doesn’t mean “no maintenance.” You should still follow the factory maintenance schedule even on a new car – skipping it could lead to an unexpected breakdown and might void your warranty. Think of it this way: a new car is very reliable, but only as long as you keep it in good shape. Basic things like oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks are still necessary to ensure it stays reliable. The advantage is, if you keep up with care from the start, a new car is highly unlikely to break down in its early years. Always fix any factory recalls too, as those are often issued to prevent breakdowns or safety issues.
Q: Will my car give me any warning before the battery dies?
A: In many cases, yes. A car battery near the end of its life may crank the engine more slowly on startup, or you might notice the headlights dimming when the car is idling. Sometimes electronic accessories (radio, power windows) will act sluggish or reset. Modern vehicles often have a battery warning light on the dash that will illuminate if the alternator isn’t charging properly – which can be a sign the battery is not being replenished. However, sometimes a battery can fail without much warning, especially in extreme weather. For example, a weak battery might work fine in mild temperatures, then suddenly die on the first very cold morning of winter. That’s why routine battery tests and keeping track of the battery’s age are important. If your battery is 4+ years old, consider replacing it proactively. Also, check the battery terminals for corrosion; corrosion can cause starting problems but is easily cleaned off. Overall, slight changes in how your car starts or the brightness of lights can tip you off to a weakening battery – don’t ignore those signs.
Q: Does car insurance cover towing and breakdown assistance?
A: Standard auto insurance policies typically do not cover the cost of mechanical breakdowns or general towing. Insurance mainly comes into play if there’s an accident or covered peril causing damage. However, you can get towing and labor coverage or roadside assistance as an add-on with most insurers. If you have that, then your insurer will reimburse or dispatch help for things like towing your broken-down car, changing a flat tire, jump-starting a dead battery, etc., up to the limits of your policy. Some comprehensive insurance policies or memberships (like AAA or Insure On The Spot’s roadside program) include these services. It’s important to know what your specific plan provides before you actually need it. Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (a separate product offered by some companies) can cover certain repair costs, but regular insurance won’t pay for, say, a new radiator because yours cracked on its own. In summary: if you want breakdown protection from your insurer, make sure you have opted into those services. Otherwise, towing and repairs due to a breakdown will be out-of-pocket costs.
Q: What should I keep in my car to be prepared for a breakdown?
A: It’s smart to have an emergency kit in your vehicle. Useful items include: a flashlight (and extra batteries), jumper cables or a portable battery jump-starter, a tire inflator or sealant, basic tools (screwdriver, pliers, wrench), a first aid kit, road flares or reflective warning triangles, a poncho or umbrella, and gloves. Also consider keeping a blanket or extra warm clothes (if you break down in cold weather), and water and non-perishable snacks (especially on long trips or in remote areas). A fully inflated spare tire (if your car comes with one) and the jack/tire iron to change it are essential – and make sure you know how to change a tire or have the owner’s manual handy for instructions. Having a charged cell phone is crucial for calling for help, so an extra phone charger or battery pack in the car is a good idea. Finally, keep important numbers in your phone or written down – for example, your roadside assistance hotline or insurance claims number. Being prepared with these items can turn a breakdown from a dangerous emergency into a manageable inconvenience.
Q: Can I prevent car breakdowns completely?
A: You can drastically reduce the chances, but not guarantee a breakdown will never happen. Cars are complex machines – any machine can have an unexpected failure. However, studies show that drivers who stick to maintenance schedules and address issues early face far fewer breakdowns. Regularly servicing your car, driving responsibly, and making those preventative repairs (like changing a timing belt before it snaps, or replacing an old battery) will eliminate most of the common failure points. It’s also wise to replace wear-and-tear items on schedule (tires, belts, spark plugs, filters, fluids) rather than waiting for them to fail. By being proactive, you’ll avoid the preventable breakdowns – which are the majority. What remains is the truly unforeseeable: a brand-new part failing or a hidden manufacturing defect, which is quite rare. So while no car is 100% breakdown-proof, a well-maintained car with a careful driver might go years or even a lifetime without a serious breakdown. And if something does happen out of the blue, being prepared (with a plan and emergency kit) will ensure it ends safely.
Conclusion
A car breakdown can ruin your day, but by following the guidance above, you can make such events highly unlikely. It boils down to this: take care of your car, and it will take care of you. Check the basics regularly, fix problems while they’re small, and drive with a bit of mechanical sympathy. Not only will you have a more reliable car, but you’ll also save money on major repairs and enjoy peace of mind on every drive. And remember, if the unexpected does happen, stay calm and follow the safety steps outlined here. Insure On The Spot is always here to help our policyholders with 24/7 roadside assistance and fast, friendly support when you need it most. Safe travels!