Flat batteries are usually at the top of the list for breakdown call-outs on first day back at work for most Irish motorists after the Christmas break.
Today, Monday 4th has been dubbed ‘Flat Battery Monday’, as leading roadside assistance provider, Allianz Global Assistance Ireland, usually gets a fifth more calls from motorists due to car breakdowns.
Drivers who haven’t used their cars over the break, typically find their cars won’t start, with flat batteries expected to be the main culprit.
On the corresponding day in January 2015 (January 5th 2015), Allianz Global Assistance saw an increase of 21% in call outs, compared to an average Monday, with the busiest time of the day between 9.00am and 11.00am.
While flat batteries are the main cause of vehicle breakdown call-outs throughout the year, puncture repairs and technical issues with the vehicle can also cause difficulties for motorists.
According to Allianz Global Assistance, the ‘Top Five’ reasons for breakdown call-outs for Irish motorists in 2015 were:
1. Flat battery
2. Wheel change (due to puncture)
3. Clutch
4. Alternator
5. Electrical fault
To help prevent more breakdowns in 2016, Allianz Global Assistance Ireland has some simple measures it recommends motorists follow:
– Check windscreen wipers for damage and replace if necessary
– Ensure there is plenty of washer fluid in the windscreen washer bottle
– Regularly clean lights and mirrors
– Check oil level
– Check that the tread depths on all car tyres are legal (at least 1.6mm across the central three-
quarters of the breadth and in a continuous band around the entire circumference of the tyre).
Also be aware that in wet weather, tyre performance drops considerably below 2mm of tread
– Check tyre pressure, over-inflated tyres are especially dangerous on icy roads
– Ensure the anti-freeze has been checked
– Short journeys using lights, wipers and heaters take their toll on batteries so ensure the car has
regular long drives to keep the battery charged
– Ensure there is sufficient breakdown cover
– Get the car serviced regularly
