M1 and M25 to experience record number of breakdowns this summer

Data by National Highways found that 26,440 breakdowns were recorded every month on major motorways and A roads across June, July, and August last year.

This was an increase from the annual monthly average of 24,236 for the same periods in 2022 and 2021.

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Fridays reportedly have the most vehicle breakdowns with almost 53,000 incidents taking place on Fridays last year.

Sunday however saw 22 per cent fewer breakdowns than Friday, with 41,305 taking place on English and Welsh roads.

The M1 saw the highest number of breakdowns, with 43,185 happening, an average of five an hour, in 2023.

Between junction 14 and 15 in both directions along the M1 in Milton Keynes experienced 3,602 breakdowns in 2023.

Junction 11 to 12 on the M62 between Warrington and Greater Manchester had 3,340 breakdowns in both directions.

In Wales, the M4 was named the most “breakdown-prone road” with 9,154 taking place last year.

Meanwhile, the M6 saw 41,323 breakdowns in 2023 with the section between junction 14 and 15 at Newcastle under Lyme being particularly prone to incidents.

The M25, which circles London, saw 26,395 breakdowns last year with the M4 experiencing 18,830.

Katie Lomas, managing director of Green Flag, which commissioned the research, explained that major motorways and A roads are busier as people head off on summerholidays and weekend breaks.

She said: “In many cases, a few simple checks that can be carried out at home before setting out, or at a garage when filling up, could prevent a disruptive start to your summer holiday journey.

“In contrast, we tend to see more breakdowns closer to home in winter, as the cold, damp weather sees more cars failing to start.”

To avoid any potential disruption this summer, Lomas suggested that drivers should ensure their tyres are inflated correctly.

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Low tyre pressure or pressure that is too high can cause damage and increase wear and tear on tyres, she explained.

Lomas added: “The correct tyre pressures for your car can usually be found on a sticker on the driver’s door frame (when the door is open), inside the fuel filler flap or in the owner’s manual if no sticker is present.”