A recent survey conducted by the German petrol station network HEM reveals a striking pattern: 64% of drivers have experienced a vehicle breakdown at some point in their motoring lives, whether the disruption came as an abrupt engine failure, a smoky onset, or a punctured tyre. This snapshot highlights how common breakdowns are and serves as a reminder that many incidents are preventable with straightforward, routine practices that motorists might overlook in the rush of daily life. The data suggests a notable gender difference in maintenance habits, with some findings indicating that women may pay less attention to regular upkeep, potentially increasing the likelihood of sudden malfunctions. This nuance underscores the importance of consistent car care for all drivers, regardless of gender, and invites a broader conversation about proactive vehicle maintenance. [HEM study, March 2022]
Even though the study focuses on Germany, the underlying message resonates across regions with similar vehicle usage patterns and service ecosystems. Regular maintenance not only minimizes the risk of unexpected failures but also reduces the stress, time loss, and financial strain that can accompany roadside breakdowns. The practical takeaway is straightforward: issue prevention begins with routine checks, planned servicing, and a basic readiness mindset, all of which contribute to safer and more reliable driving. [HEM study, March 2022]
The survey reveals that a large majority, about 87%, arrange service visits after intervals of roughly 15,000 to 30,000 miles. Yet there remains a gap between this general commitment and the everyday checks that can forestall minor problems from becoming major failures. For instance, nearly nine in ten respondents regularly monitor the oil level, but only a minority (about 42%) keeps a bottle of engine oil on hand for topping up when needed. Battery health also shows room for improvement: 49% report routine battery checks, with men slightly more engaged at 60%. Belt wear, including v-belts and timing belts, is checked by 45% of drivers, with male respondents again showing higher engagement at 62%. Spark plugs and braking systems see maintenance by 49%, and 58% of men report attention in that category. These patterns point to a broader truth: proactive, regular micro-checks complement scheduled servicing and can catch warning signs before a breakdown occurs. [HEM study, March 2022]
In today’s vehicles, a multitude of dashboard indicators and warning lights act as a safety net, signaling potential malfunctions and prompting timely action. However, a notable minority still feels uncertain about what certain indicators mean. Among female drivers, 26% report not understanding all the meanings behind the lights, compared with 12% of male drivers who share that uncertainty. This gap highlights the value of familiarizing oneself with the vehicle’s dashboard and keeping a quick reference guide handy. Clear knowledge of warning signals enables quicker, more confident decisions about whether to seek service, perform a basic check, or arrange a professional diagnostic. [HEM study, March 2022]
The study, titled Car breakdown and accidents, was conducted by the gas station chain HEM in March 2022 and involved 2,518 adults aged 18 and over. The breadth of participants helps ensure the findings reflect a wide range of driving experiences and habits, offering a useful benchmark for drivers and policymakers alike who aim to promote safer, more dependable road travel. [HEM study, March 2022]