RAC says ‘huge quantity’ of winter callouts are associated to 1 automobile challenge | UK | News | EUROtoday

Drivers throughout the UK have encountered quite a few winter difficulties to date in early 2026, together with frost and icy street situations. The  Royal Automobile Club (RAC) has now supplied necessary steering to assist detect points with automobiles in decrease temperatures and strategies to handle them effectively.

The RAC states that while gas programs, starter motors, alternators and even oil will be impacted by chilly climate, it is the battery that faces the most important menace throughout the winter months. The organisation disclosed {that a} ‘huge quantity’ of its winter emergency callouts are linked to battery points.

“It may just be as simple as jump-starting it or recharging the battery – let’s look at the symptoms.” Drivers ought to look ahead to warning indicators when attempting to begin their automobile.

A ‘faint whining noise’ when turning the important thing could sign a drained battery, whereas complete silence may level to a battery that is both fully flat or disconnected.

The RAC continued: “Further signs of a completely flat battery include the ignition lights on the dashboard failing to illuminate, and the car refusing to unlock via remote central locking. Knowing what to do if you have a flat battery including how to tell you have one, is an important lessons to learn for all drivers.”

Dealing with these points in a rush will be extremely irritating. However, the RAC has clarified that drivers might want to tackle this in the event that they want to proceed driving.

While jump-starting your automobile utilizing cables and one other car could also be efficient, changing the battery totally may take considerably longer. For this goal, the RAC recommends its personal Battery Fitting Service, which will be contacted on 0333 2000 999.

Nevertheless, there are strategies to forestall these issues from occurring within the first place. For motorists who often use their automobiles for brief journeys, the RAC recommends charging the battery not less than as soon as every week, notably whether it is over three years outdated.

“Cold temperatures affect the chemical process that produces and stores electricity inside the battery, slowing the battery down and reducing its ability to hold a charge,” its steering continued.

“If you are using your car regularly for short trips, it may be worth charging your battery at least once a week during the winter months, particularly if it is more than three years old.

“Knowing the right way to cost automobile batteries might help you get out of a troublesome scenario with out speedy want for a mechanic.”