Vital checks to avoid a breakdown
The AA claim that 80% of car breakdowns are avoidable. They say that routine checks and regular maintenance will prevent the frustration and inconvenience of a breakdown. Take a look at their list of ten vital checks that you can carry out on your car to make sure it will behave itself.
AA Advice >

Useful route planning information
Detailed route planning services, whether you are planning to travel in the UK or abroad.
Michelin Directions >

Driving overseas - some reminders
Taking your car abroad? Remember to take:

Warning triangle
GB sticker
Headlamp converter kit
Spare bulbs
Spare keys
Toolkit
Fire extinguisher
First aid kit

You should also take the following documents but protect them carefully. Don't, for example, leave them in your car in case it is stolen. Leave photocopies at home.

Registration document
Insurance certificate
Driving licence
Contact details
Breakdown insurance cover

Don't let these ruin your day!
Here's a list of some of the most common causes of breakdown and recovery callout. Bear them in mind and don't be a breakdown victim!

Flat or faulty battery: car won't start.

Problem with keys: getting locked out of your car, or a problem with the immobilizer.

Flat tyres or damaged wheels. That deflated feeling...

Faulty alternator. Your battery won't charge.

Starter motor failure. You ain't going nowhere.

Run out of fuel (high red face rating).

Wrong fuel in tank (even redder…)

Broken clutch cable. It operates under stress, and can snap.

Problems with other parts such as split distributor cap, worn spark plugs, blown cylinder head gasket… Just be nice to your car - look after it, keep it serviced and report anything unusual.

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