The number of winter breakdowns have surged in recent years (Image: Getty)
The number of car breakdowns has surged in the past four years, with ahead of the next big freeze.
New data from has found the is up a staggering 22 percent in just four years.
Officials recorded 68,893 breakdowns on UK roads between November 2023 and January 2024 last year. This was up from 56,517 breakdowns recorded by the group during the 2019/20 period.
Tyre issues were the most common reason vehicles broke down, accounting for 19 percent of all incidents.
Meanwhile, loss of power was also a common fault, with the simple issue responsible for eight per cent of breakdowns.
Motorists can protect themselves by taking precautions (Image: Getty)
Duncan Smith, executive director of operations at National Highways warned motorists had to “do their bit” to stay safe.
He said: “Preparation is key to staying safe during winter journeys and we’re already playing our part by lifting roadworks on key routes in time for Black Friday deliveries next week, helping logistics companies.
“Across the entire winter season, we have traffic officers, control operators and operations colleagues working around the clock to keep roads accessible, providing a smoother travel experience for all.
“We’re now asking road users to do their bit too. Packing the right essentials and driving cautiously in poor weather can make all the difference.”
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Lorries could be most at risk in poor conditions with National Highways previously stressing that heavy vehicles could struggle to drive up steep inclines.
In some situations, these vehicles could become stranded, running the risk of road blockages which may prevent road critters from protecting the streets.
admit they see a “sharp increase in the volume of breakdowns when the weather turns cold.”
They admit that any “underlying mechanical issues could escalate as temperatures plummet”.
It’s therefore vital that road users make sure key components are up to scratch and not on the verge of collapse.
has suggested , fluid levels and tire tread depth should all be checked ahead of a cold spell.
They added: “In the majority of tasks and activities, preparation is vital.
“Winter driving is no different, and the easiest way you can keep yourself safe or avoid a breakdown over the cold snap is by checking your vehicle over, or having it serviced or inspected beforehand.”