Big increase in car breakdowns as more rain falls

The AA Rescue Centre has seen an 11% increase in call-outs to broken down vehicles in October compared to September. Deterioration of older vehicles combined with very wet and windy conditions has left motorists more vulnerable to breakdowns this winter.

The AA is advising motorists to gear up as further rain is forecast for the coming week. “It’s not enough to put a bit of air in your tyres or change your window wipers” says Conor Faughnan, Director of Consumer Affairs at The AA. “Your engine is forced to work much harder in winter and a bit of maintenance can go a long way. If you were worn out and malnourished, you wouldn’t work as well as should be expected and the same can be said for your car.”

The AA saw a 27% increase in call-outs to motorists with engine problems in October compared to September. Warn-out or damaged batteries prompted a 15% increase in breakdowns, while 12% more motorists called The AA with flat tyres.

“Irish people care hanging on to their present cars for longer these days and there is no doubt that this is why we are seeing more car breakdowns.” says Faughnan. “This has been evident all year but it was striking how many car breakdowns happened in the last month that were caused at least in part by cars not being prepared for poor weather. The older a car gets the more care it needs and this is particularly important in winter.”

The AA is advising all motorists to get their car serviced before the winter weather worsens. However, there are a couple of simple checks that all motorists can carry out themselves.

• Tyres – Worn tyres can be extremely hazardous in wet or frosty conditions as a loss of traction can cause a collision or prolonged driving with weak tyres can cause a blow out. Replace tyres if necessary.
• Washer – Washer fluid is essential for winter driving to keep your windscreen clear, top it up using the correct mixture of water and washer fluid.
• Coolant – To help your engine during the cold winter months top up your coolant with anti-freeze.
•  Oil – Check your oil and top up as necessary.

Brake Fluid – Brake fluid may also need to be topped up but if you find that you have to top it up regularly it’s important to contact a qualified professional as there may be a serious problem.

“The worst of the winter weather has yet to come” advises Faughnan. “So far it has been very mild and we have yet to see much frost. Winter will still prove taxing for motorists, particularly if they’re not prepared. AA Rescue patrols attend thousands of breakdowns every month and many of these could be prevented if drivers set aside a little time for some car maintenance.”

If you join The AA today you can avail of free Rescue Plus for just €8.25 a month, for more details click here.