Drivers issued automotive breakdown warning forward of ‘Manic Monday’ | EUROtoday

Next Monday is anticipated to be one of many worst days of the yr for automotive breakdowns, motorists have been warned.

January 5, the primary working Monday of 2026, has been dubbed “Manic Monday”, with AA anticipating a surge in calls from drivers.

This is about to come up as vehicles left idle over the festive interval are prone to be liable to points.

Last yr, the primary working Monday noticed 27 per cent extra breakdown requests in comparison with Monday February 3, highlighting the recurring downside.

Common complaints reported by motorists after Christmas embrace automobiles failing to start out and flat tyres.

With over 22 million automotive journeys projected for Monday, the AA has urged drivers to conduct important checks on their batteries and tyres beforehand.

AA skilled Shaun Jones articulated the frustration many will face.

He stated: “Nobody likes heading back to work after the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

“The mad rush in the morning getting yourself ready as well as expecting traffic jams that feel like the road to hell. Levels of rage and frustration then explode when your car won’t start or you spot a flat tyre.”

Jones emphasised these issues are sometimes preventable, including: “These ain’t no technological breakdowns, and they can easily be avoided with a bit of planning and preparation.”

Checking your automotive over the weekend and guaranteeing it’s in good working order will take a number of the stress as folks head again to work.”