RAC reports increase in cold weather breakdowns

RAC spokesman Simon Williams said: "Our patrols dealt with 24% more breakdowns yesterday than expected in Scotland as the temperature plummeted to minus 12C. The North West of England saw a 17% increase while the most northern parts only saw an 11% rise in call-outs.

"Problems with burnt-out clutches topped the list of the most commonly seen cold weather faults with a 31% increase compared to the previous seven days. Flat battery call-outs were up 26% and starter motor issues were not far behind on 22%.

"With more icy weather forecast motorists need to take extra care on the road by slowing down and leaving more space behind the car in front. But as our patrols have seen for many motorists the problems begin at home with cars that just don't start. If cars are slow to start it may be time to get the battery starting and charging system checked. And, if the cold conditions are joined by fog drivers will face great difficulty on the roads on Wednesday morning."

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About RAC Media Centre

The RAC Media Centre provides journalists and news outlets with the latest motoring-related news, comment, data and research.

The RAC is an iconic UK brand, and provides complete peace of mind to nearly 14 million UK private and business drivers - whatever their motoring needs. As well as its premium nationwide breakdown assistance service – with an expert branded patrol workforce attending more than two million breakdowns every year – and European breakdown assistance products, it offers a wide range of market-leading products across insurance, legal services, vehicle inspections and service, maintenance and repair. Included in this is the first-of-its-kind nationwide Mobile Mechanics service which brings the garage to homes and workplaces. 

At the forefront of new solutions for business fleets and consumers, the RAC’s breakdown service is electric-ready with mobile EV charging technology and be called on using myRAC – its all-in-one route planner, fuel finder and breakdown reporting app

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