Number of Car Breakdowns Reach Record Levels In Spite of New Innovations

Car technology may advancing at a breakneck pace, but motorists stuck on the roadside due to a car breakdown continue to be a common sight. This is borne out by a recent report published in Fortune magazine that in the United States, there was a record number of 32 million breakdowns in 2015, according to figures given by the American Automotive Association (AAA). While flat tires continued to be a key culprit, one surprising cause was electronic keyless ignitions that ran out of steam as batteries were drained of charge.

There have been many advances in automotive technology like engine alerts and maintenance reminders, but the breakdown rate continues to climb.

When it comes to keyless entry fobs, AAA has advised motorists to ensure that their ‘smart’ key or fob is always at least 10 feet away from the car when it is not being used. Otherwise, battery drains are a distinct possibility. AAA has also advised drivers to avoid leaving the fob in the car unless it is necessary. Some even keep it within the garage overnight within the 10 feet range that can cause battery drain.

AAA has recommended that in order to minimize the time lost due to flat tires, the practice of carrying spare tires as standard equipment should be reinstated.

Of course, the most relevant advice that all motorists should take to heart is to carry out regular maintenance checks. While maintenance reminders and dashboard alerts are all well and good, they are of no use if drivers do not act on them.