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Have you broken down?

The Top 5 Reasons Cars Break Down – And How to Avoid Them

Name: Snow Bros
Address: 69 Clyde, Whangarei
Telephone: 09 438 2822

Breakdowns rarely happen at a convenient time. Whether you're running errands in Whangarei or heading north for the weekend, getting stranded on the roadside is stressful — and often preventable.

Here are the five most common reasons cars break down, along with practical tips to help you avoid them.

1. Flat or Faulty Battery

The issue:

A flat battery is one of the most common causes of a breakdown — especially in winter or after short, infrequent trips. Age, poor maintenance, or a faulty alternator can all contribute.

How to avoid it:

Replace batteries every 3–5 years

Watch for signs of a weak battery (slow crank, dim lights)

Get a free battery health check at Snow Bros

Drive regularly or use a trickle charger if your vehicle is often unused

2. Overheating Engine

The issue:

An overheating engine can be caused by low coolant, a faulty thermostat, or a leaking radiator. If left unchecked, it can result in serious engine damage.

How to avoid it:

Check coolant levels regularly

Keep an eye on the temperature gauge

Book regular servicing to catch coolant leaks early

Never ignore signs of overheating like steam or warning lights

man-calling-for-help-with-his-overheated-car

3. Starter Motor or Alternator Failure

The issue:

If your car won’t crank or start, the issue could be your starter motor or alternator. These components wear out over time and often give warning signs before failing completely.

How to avoid it:

Pay attention to sluggish starts or clicking noises

Get your charging system tested during routine maintenance

Replace worn alternators before they cause battery drain

4. Tyre Problems

The issue:

A flat tyre, slow leak, or sudden puncture can bring your journey to a halt. Worn-out tyres are also more likely to fail, especially on Northland’s rural or gravel roads.

How to avoid it:

Check tyre pressures monthly

Inspect for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear

Keep a spare tyre and jack in good condition

Replace tyres before they reach minimum tread depth

5. Running Out of Fuel

The issue:

It might sound obvious, but running out of petrol or diesel is more common than many drivers realise — especially on long drives where stations are few and far between.

How to avoid it:

Refuel before trips, not after

Don’t rely too heavily on the fuel light

Reset your trip counter after each fill-up to track usage

Plan fuel stops on longer journeys through rural Northland

Prevent Breakdowns Before They Happen – Visit Snow Bros in Whangarei

A little maintenance goes a long way. At Snow Bros Auto & Electrical, we help Whangarei drivers avoid breakdowns with reliable servicing, battery checks, alternator testing, and expert advice.

Full vehicle checks and preventative maintenance

Battery and charging system diagnostics

Tyre pressure checks and fluid top-ups

Book your next service today at 69 Clyde Street, Whangarei, or call 09 438 2822 and speak to our friendly team.