After enough call-outs, a clear pattern emerges: the majority of breakdowns are a handful of predictable problems, and several are avoidable with ten minutes of attention a month.

1. Flat batteries

The single most common call. Heat shortens battery life, and short stop-start trips never fully recharge them.

2. Tyre failures

Broken road surfaces after rain take a steady toll. Under-inflation is the hidden culprit.

3. Running out of fuel

More common than people admit, usually an optimistic gauge plus unexpected traffic.

4. Overheating

Long idling in traffic strains the cooling system. A monthly coolant check catches most.

5. Clutch and gearbox faults

These give warning signs that are easy to ignore.

6. Lockouts

Not mechanical at all, but a large share of calls. A spare key kept elsewhere prevents it.