Nearly half a million battery-related breakdowns are expected across the UK this winter, with Green Flag warning that cold weather will trigger a surge in call outs between November and January.
Analysis from the breakdown provider showed that 472,000 car battery failures are likely over the three-month period – the equivalent of five vehicles breaking down every minute due to flat or faulty batteries.
Battery-related call outs historically spiked as temperatures fell.
In November 2024, Green Flag recorded nearly 150,000 breakdowns caused by failed batteries – a 26% increase on October and the second-highest month after January.
Incidents were most common on Mondays, when cars left unused over the weekend struggled to start.
Low temperatures reduce a battery’s ability to hold charge, while cold engines require significantly more power to turn over.
With most car batteries lasting only four to five years, drivers are being urged to check or replace ageing batteries before freezing conditions set in.
Katie Lomas, managing director at Green Flag, said: “Winter conditions demand more from our cars, and a breakdown on a cold morning will more often than not be caused by a flat battery.
“Even one that performed well in warmer months can be susceptible to faltering in low temperatures.
“We encourage drivers to get their car batteries checked before frosty weather really takes hold and replace them if necessary – particularly if the battery is getting past the five-year mark.”
Green Flag issued guidance to help motorists reduce the risk of winter breakdowns, including checking battery age, inspecting for corrosion, avoiding overuse of power-heavy accessories before the alternator has had time to recharge the battery, using trickle chargers for infrequent driving, switching off electrical systems before stopping the engine, and parking in a garage during freezing weather.
With the first cold snap approaching, the organisation warns that preventative checks now could save motorists from the most common cause of winter breakdowns.
