DRIVERS across the country have been warned of a simple mistake they might have made with their vehicles over the Christmas break – which could result in an expensive repair.
According to the RAC, Monday, 6 January 2025, is expected to be one of their busiest days for breakdowns.
This is because they are anticipating an influx of drivers starting the new year with an unexpected flat battery.
They explain that cars left unused throughout the Christmas period and left idle are likely to suffer – with households owning more than one vehicle at greater risk.
This is because many people will only use one car over the festive period, leaving the battery of the other car more susceptible to failure.
Battery issues are already the primary reason for RAC patrol call-outs, and the colder winter months often exacerbate battery strain due to the increased use of heaters, lights, and heated screens and seats.
The RAC is advising all households, especially those with a second car, to make sure their vehicles are used between Christmas and New Year.
Keeping their car’s battery topped up during this period is imperative, especially if they intend to commute on Monday, 6 January 2025.
The cost to replace a car battery can vary depending on a number of factors, including battery type – which can vary from £50 to £150.
What’s more, premium batteries, like AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) or gel batteries, are more expensive, usually costing between £100 and £300.
However, RAC patrols will fit parts free of charge and will only invoice you for the cost of the parts used, up to the value of £300.
RAC Breakdown spokesperson Alice Simpson said: “The first working day after Christmas is typically the busiest of the year for our patrols attending drivers suffering the ‘flat battery blues’.
“The first day back at work after the Christmas break is often bad enough, but it can be thoroughly depressing if nothing happens when you go to start the ignition.
“Cars left unused over the holidays, such as second vehicles left parked up, are often a breakdown statistic waiting to happen.
“Luckily, a flat battery is easily avoidable if drivers take their cars for a good run during their Christmas breaks.
“Electric vehicles are just as vulnerable as combustion engines because they also rely on 12-volt batteries, so it’s important to drive them occasionally and keep them charged above 20% in winter conditions.
“Colder weather slows down the chemical reaction in vehicle batteries, plus they have to work harder in the winter months due to greater use of the heater, lights, heated screens and seats as well as windscreen wipers.
“The starter motor also has to work harder to turn over the engine in the cold, so if your car is particularly slow to start then the battery could be about to fail.
“Drivers in any doubt about the health of their battery – especially those that are older and weaker – can book a diagnostic test on their doorstep.
“Rather than trying to find a garage that is open during the holiday period, drivers can book an RAC Mobile Mechanic to test their battery at home or work, and even install a new one in the worst-case scenario.”
