One in eight motorists has suffered a vehicle breakdown in last 12 months according to the latest easytrip survey.

Mobility solutions specialist, easytrip surveyed 5,000 motorists on breakdowns and tyre maintenance in the lead up to the Christmas driving period. The research revealed that one in eight drivers had experienced a vehicle breakdown in the last 12 months.

Breakdowns can happen at the most inconvenient time but the cause of it can determine how quickly the car can get back on the road. Based on the easytrip research the most common causes of a breakdown were revealed as follows:


  1.  Engine failure - 27%
  2.  Battery failure - 24%
  3.  Tyre damage - 20%
  4.  Fuel issue - 7%

With tyre damage being a common mishap, the respondents to the research were also asked when they got a puncture what they would you do. While 64% choose to change the defect tyre themselves, 29% opted to call their breakdown cover for assistance.

A vehicles main contact with the road is its tyres and for optimum driving, effective braking and good road traction it is advised that they be inspected on a weekly basis. However, when respondents to the easytrip survey were asked how often they examined their tyres over 49% did so only every few months or even just once a year while as little as 10% were diligent carrying out weekly checks.

Respondents were also asked what the minimum legal tyre tread depth was as an important part of a tyre check and 44% of drivers admitted that they were unaware that it was at least 1.6mm. Alarmingly 69% also didn’t know what the penalty was for driving with a defective or worn tyre which is two penalty points plus a fixed charge (or fine) of €80.

Commenting on the research, CEO of easytrip Ireland, Colin Delaney said: “As we approach a busy period on our roads, we wanted to highlight common breakdown causes and the importance of checking tyres regularly as they are our main contact with the road. The average Irish car age is eight years old meaning many Irish drivers need to ensure that they carry out regular maintenance of their vehicle including their tyres to maintain optimum driving conditions.  It only takes three minutes to check tyres for any defects, bulges and to inflate them to the appropriate tyre pressure on a weekly basis.  Likewise having the added peace of mind of breakdown roadside assistance means that you can continue your day to day motoring activities in the knowledge that you have the support available in the event of an incident occurring.”