Car won't start: what to check first
Simple checks by sound: clicks, slow cranking or silence, before you call for help.
27 itemsStart
Car broke down on the road: what to do
Get off the road, get everyone safe, then work out what went wrong and who to call.
Get safe first (7)
- Steer to a safe stop: car park, lay-by, service area or hard shoulderKeep rolling if you can. A hard shoulder is the least safe of these.
- Turn on the hazard lights
- Wheels turned away from traffic, handbrake on
- Everyone out on the side away from trafficOn a fast road, wait behind the barrier and well away from the car.
- Wear something bright or reflective, keep sidelights on in the dark
- Warning triangle at least 45 m behind the carOrdinary roads only. Never place one on a motorway.
- Call emergency services if you are stuck in a live lane911 US, 999 UK, 112 India and EU.
Work out what happened (5)
- Read the dashboard: a red warning light means stopRed oil or temperature light: do not restart the engine.
- Check for steam, smoke or a burning smellStay away from the car if you see smoke or smell fuel.
- Look for a flat or damaged tyre, without standing on the traffic side
- Check the fuel gauge
- Note the last thing the car did: lost power, cut out, loud bang, shaking
Get help (5)
- Find your exact location: map pin, road name, junction or marker post
- Call your breakdown cover, or the number on your insurance cardIndia: NHAI highway helpline 1033.
- Tell them the car model, the problem, and if children or anyone unwell are with you
- Ask how long they will be, and if the car will be towed and where to
- Tell someone where you are and when you expect to move
While you wait (4)
- Do not try repairs on a motorway or highway shoulder
- Keep water, phone charger and warm clothes with you
- Lock valuables out of sight and take your documents
- Check the ID of whoever arrives, and agree the price before any tow
Written from www.gov.uk