AA Breakdown Advice

Breakdown repair cover - there are better ways to spend £500 than on car repairs...

We fix around eight out of ten cars by the roadside but did you know that most common faults dealt with by AA patrols can be avoided? Pre-journey checks and regular maintenance can make all the difference.

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'Flower' Power

It pays to give your car a good check over every couple of weeks.

The acronym 'FLOWER' can help you remember what to check;

Fuel, Lights, Oil, Water, Electrics, and Rubber

Download and print our Flower Power, basic car checks leaflet and keep it in the car to help you remember what to check.


In this section

What to do if you break down
How to stop safely and call for help – includes specific advice for motorways.

Filled with the wrong fuel?
Around 150,000 drivers put the wrong fuel in their car each year - what should you do if you make the same mistake?

Top ten causes of breakdowns
Knowing what causes breakdowns can help you take steps to prevent them.

Ten vital checks
Ten things you can do to make sure your car is running smoothly.

Using jump leads
How to use jump leads safely and without damaging the vehicles involved.

Flat battery?
How our patrols assess the condition of a battery.

What's in the van?
it's an office and workshop rolled into one; packed with the latest tools, equipment and information.

Common winter breakdowns
Winter is the busiest time for breakdowns but if you know what goes wrong you might be able to prevent it happening to you.

Warning lights
What does that light on the dashboard mean?

AA patrol podcasts
Including checking coolant and preparing for a journey

Got a flat?
How to change a wheel safely

Car cough clinic
Brief audio clips to help you identify some of the most common faults that can cause problems with your car.

AA Special Operations Response Team
Flood, snow and mud-busting Land Rovers to undertake vehicle rescue and recovery in floods and other severe weather.

AA Extends Two-wheeled Operations
AA Motorbike patrols are now operating in London and five other major cities.

Driver location signs
Helping to pinpoint your location on the motorway network.

Battery problems in winter
Batteries can die at any time of year but it's more likely in winter when cold temperatures affect power, load and charging

Emergency diversion routes
The Highways Agency is increasing the number of signed diversion routes to help you find your way.


Despite everything, things can and do still go wrong. If you're not already a member, you can join the AA.

Emergency breakdown number

The AA breakdown number is 0800 887766, or call from a mobile on 08457 887766.

SURVIVE - Safe Use of Roadside Verges In Vehicular Emergencies

 

3 November 2011