Motorists heading back to work tomorrow after the Christmas and New Year break are being warned to prepare for a difficult start to 2026, with thousands of cars expected to break down across the country.
Breakdown provider Green Flag has warned that Monday, January 5, is expected to be the busiest day of the year for roadside assistance, with more than 28,400 vehicles anticipated to require assistance.
That figure is around double the usual daily number of call-outs, making it one of the toughest days of the year for recovery teams and a frustrating one for drivers.
Green Flag estimated that a driver somewhere in the UK will need roadside assistance roughly every three seconds throughout the day.
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The surge is expected as millions of people return to work and attempt to start cars that may not have been driven for a week or more over the festive period.
Many vehicles have been left sitting unused throughout Christmas and New Year, and that lack of use, combined with cold winter weather, often leads to problems.
Battery failure is expected to be the most common issue, accounting for around 32 per cent of all breakdowns tomorrow.
Green Flag mechanics are also bracing for large numbers of call-outs involving flat or under-inflated tyres, as well as engines that refuse to start after being left idle.
Experts are predicting thousands of drivers to experience traffic breakdowns tomorrow
| PA/GREEN FLAGWhen cars are not used regularly, batteries gradually lose charge. Cold temperatures place extra strain on already weakened batteries, increasing the risk of failure.
Tyres can lose pressure or develop flat spots when vehicles are parked in the same position for long periods, while brake components can begin to seize if they are not used.
Fluids such as engine oil and coolant also benefit from regular circulation, something that does not happen when a car is left standing.
All of these factors mean the first working day after the festive break is traditionally one of the busiest and most challenging for breakdown services.
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Drivers should ensure tyres remain in good condition while on the road | GETTYKatie Lomas, Managing Director at Green Flag, said many drivers underestimate the impact of leaving their car unused.
She said: "That first Monday back after the festive break can be hectic as many people start their vehicles for the first time in a couple of weeks. Not only is it likely to be a busy time on the roads, but it is also expected that many people will experience issues with their cars."
She urged drivers to take last-minute steps today to reduce the risk of breaking down tomorrow. "A 20 to 30-minute drive can make all the difference," she said.
"It helps recharge the battery, circulate fluids, prevent brakes from sticking and maintain tyre health." With cold temperatures forecast overnight, Green Flag said drivers still have time today to take preventative action.
The expert has warned drivers of increased breakdowns on Monday
| PAEven a short drive can significantly reduce the chances of problems when setting off tomorrow morning, the expert warned.
Starting the engine and driving allows the battery to recharge, something it cannot do while parked. Regular use also keeps key mechanical parts in good working order and reduces the risk of unexpected failure.
Drivers have also been advised to check tyre pressures, ensure their car starts properly and watch out for warning lights before heading out tomorrow.
Green Flag, which has been providing breakdown assistance for more than 50 years and is now part of the Aviva Group, operates around the clock every day of the year. However, the company said many of tomorrow's breakdowns could be avoided with simple checks and short journeys.