Top 10 Common Misconceptions About Car Breakdowns
Car breakdowns are more common than most drivers realize, yet many still fall for misconceptions that leave them unexpectedly stranded.
Whether you drive a brand-new luxury car or a decade-old SUV, knowing necessary car breakdown information is key to staying safe and prepared.
This blog debunks some of the most common misconceptions about car breakdowns and useful tips to prevent them. It also explains when it's time to call in towing services or a 24/7 roadside assistance provider.
Let’s get down to busting some myths about car breakdowns.
Misconception-1: Breakdowns only happen to old cars.
Many drivers believe that only poorly maintained or old vehicles are prone to breakdowns. This myth leads new car owners to neglect checks, assuming their car is immune to breakdowns or other issues.
Reality:
Even brand-new cars can be victims of breakdowns, common causes of breakdown being battery issues, faulty sensors, flat tires or manufacturing defects. Whether your car is a year old or a decade old, regular maintenance and inspections can avoid the trouble of being stranded.
Quick Tip: Save the number of a reliable 24/7 roadside assistance provider- because no new is ever too reliable to fail.
Misconception-2: Your car doesn't need regular maintenance.
Another misconception most drivers tend to think- they can skip scheduled servicing and still avoid any car issues. Their belief that modern cars function just fine without much attention lands them into trouble more often.
Reality:
In reality, most car breakdown assistance cases come from neglecting basic maintenance routines. Old engine oil, worn-out brake pads or tyres or low coolant seem small issues but can turn into big breakdown nightmares.
What lack of car maintenance can cause:
- Brake failure
- Engine overheating
- Flat tire
- Dead battery
Quick Tip: Always follow your car’s scheduled service and keep up with monthly checks. And if you ever face an issue, a roadside assistance company like HRA can help you out.
Misconception-3: You can always fix it yourself
Handling a breakdown on your own isn’t a big deal, right? Whether a dead battery, a flat tire or an overheated engine, a toolbox and a few YouTube videos should get it sorted. Sadly, this is what many drivers assume.
Reality:
Modern cars are more complex than ever. Trying DIY fixes without expertise or the correct knowledge and tools can do more harm than good to your car. Fixing a car these days involves diagnostic systems, advanced electronics and more- and this isn’t easily repairable on the roadside.
Some reasons why Fix it Yourself can go wrong:
- Using the wrong tools may damage components.
- Jump-starting newer cars the wrong way can fry the electrical system.
- Sometimes, trying to fix it without diagnosis may cost you more than buying a yearly roadside assistance plan!
Quick Tip: If you’re unsure what’s wrong, it’s better to contact a roadside assistance company. They can quickly assess the issue and provide the right help- saving you time, money and unnecessary damage.
Misconception-4: Roadside Assistance is a waste of money
Another very common misconception in many drivers' minds: I usually drive locally, so roadside assistance is an unnecessary expense. Or, I've never broken down till now, so why bother purchasing a plan?
Reality:
Car breakdown never comes announced. It will all be good until the day
- your battery dies in the rain or
- you’re met with an accident or
- you run out of fuel on a highway with no help for miles.
In such moments, having a nearby roadside assistance company on speed dial becomes your lifeline.
Quick Tip: Choose a towing provider like HRA that offers round-the-clock support, quick service time and nationwide coverage. You get complete peace of mind for a relatively small price; it’s a win-win!
Misconception-5: Towing damages your car
Many people still believe the myth that a tow truck could scratch, dent or damage their car. Some even prefer DIY towing over professional towing services and end up doing more harm to the vehicle.
Reality:
This misconception is from reality. Modern roadside assistance companies like HRA use the latest and professional equipment to transport vehicles safely . There are even different types of towing services based on the vehicle! From flatbed or wheel-lift tow trucks to hook-and-chain towing, your vehicle is always handled with care when you call for a reliable towing provider.
Quick Tip: Want to protect your car? Avoid DIY towing. Call a trusted tow truck nearby like HRA- one of the reasons HRA is considered the best towing company in the Industry.
Misconception-6: Breakdowns only happen on long trips
Does car breakdown only happen on long drives or trips? Not really.
Reality:
A large number of breakdowns happen during the short trips. As per the study, over 60% of roadside assistance calls are made within just 10 miles of the driver’s home. Cars used mostly for short distance travel can suffer from mechanical failure, underinflated tyres or battery drain- without even leaving the city!
Useful tips to keep breakdown at bay:
- Take your car for a longer drive every ten days to keep the battery charged.
- Check the tire pressure regularly
- Get regular oil changes, even if you don’t drive much.
Quick Tip: Whether on a long-distance trip or a grocery run, always have a 24/7 car breakdown service provider near me in your contact list.
Misconception-7: You only need a tow truck in accidents
One of the most famous yet cringe misconceptions about car breakdown- tow trucks are only for accidents or major collisions. If there’s no crash, there’s no need for towing.
Reality:
Towing services are more than just for accident recovery; they are as crucial for mechanical failures. From technical issues to a car that just won’t start- there are tons of non-accident events where tow trucks come to the rescue.
Common events that require towing:
- Unexpected engine failure
- Dead battery with no jump-start option
- Engine overheating beyond a safe level
- Brake failure
Quick Tip: One of the reasons HRA leads the towing industry is its quick response time for all types of car breakdowns. No more waiting around; we’re just a call away!
Misconception-8: You can ignore warning lights until the car stops
Another myth that drivers take lightly but could become a hassle- ignoring dashboard warning lights.
Reality:
If your car displays a warning light, it means something is wrong- from low oil pressure to a potential engine fault. Ignoring these warnings can lead to breakdowns and expensive repairs. Heeding these alerts prevents more serious failures.
Quick Tip: Delaying action when a warning appears could be dangerous. If unsure, call your roadside assistance provider and get the vehicle checked before it turns worse.
Misconception-9: Cruise Control Saves Fuel On Every Road
Many drivers assume using cruise control, no matter the road or condition, always improves fuel efficiency.
Reality:
Cruise control works best for steady highways. If you’re travelling through hills or winding roads, it can actually consume more fuel as the system struggles to maintain speed.
Quick Tip: Use cruise control on open highways, not cities or mountain areas.
Misconception-10: All the towing companies are the same
One costly misconception is thinking all the towing companies are the same. This leads to many drivers skipping roadside assistance plans altogether. Ironically, a single unexpected car breakdown can end up costing more than an entire year of RSA plan!
Reality:
Towing companies vary in response time, area coverage, cost of plan, expertise in handling breakdowns, and equipment planning. While choosing the wrong one can lead to delays, the right towing service provider can solve your vehicle breakdown seamlessly.
Quick Tip: Look for a towing provider that offers a solid reputation, certified technicians, nationwide coverage and true 24/7 availability- these are the criteria that set top-tier services apart.
Conclusion:
Car breakdowns often result from common myths and overlooked maintenance. By understanding the facts and following essentiala tips to prevent breakdowns, drivers can avoid unnecessary stress, expenses, and roadside emergencies.
From the car acting up due to dead battery, misfuelling, warning light or unexpected engine trouble, having a dependable roadside assistance company makes all the difference.
Commitment to fast response, professional services, nationwide availability and wide garage network is what makes HRA the best towing company. Our expert team ensures you are shielded from the stress of breakdown- anytime, anywhere.