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What to do when your car breaks down

From quiet country roads to busy freeways, there’s never a good time for your car to break down - but it doesn't have to ruin your day. Here's what to do if your car breaks down, so you can get back on the road ASAP.
A car break down is always an inconvenience, especially when you're on your way to work, going to catching a flight, or travelling on a road trip. It can also be dangerous: several Australians lose their lives each year after being hit by vehicles when stopped in emergency lanes. For your safety and peace of mind, it's important to learn how best to handle your car breaking down unexpectedly.
How to help prevent a car breakdown
Cars don’t generally break down for no reason. Regularly servicing your vehicle can fix potential problems before they affect your car's performance. When driving, be aware of any strange noises, a change in the way the vehicle feels, a lack of power, or warning lights on your dash. If something doesn’t look, sound or feel right, pull into a service station or park well off the road and call a reputable roadside assistance provider such as RACV Emergency Roadside Assistance on 13 11 11.
You should also store some emergency essentials in your car in case of a breakdown. A torch, first aid kit, fully charged mobile, phone charger, and a bottle of water are all helpful items in the event of a car breakdown. If you regularly travel to remote locations where mobile service may not be available, it's worth investing in a satellite phone or personal location beacon (PLB), so you can call for emergency services if needed.

Try to pull your broken-down car safely off the road where possible. Image: Getty
What to do when your car breaks down

Stop your car in a safe area and keep yourself far away from moving traffic.

RACV Emergency Roadside Assistance customers in metro Melbourne receive an SMS detailing how far away the assigned van is.

When the RACV Emergency Roadside Assistance van arrives, a trained mechanic will find out what's wrong with your vehicle.