Car accidents are extremely serious events and events which many take for granted in the UK. According to recent government statistics, nearly 30,000 people were killed or seriously injured in 2021-22 alone – a damning statistic that indicates the severe risks shouldered by drivers and pedestrians alike.
Many of these accidents are down purely to human error, but many are also due to mechanical failures. The below points of failure are some of the most common in breakdown-related car accidents today. Their spread across all aspects of car mechanics illustrates well the need for a regular full car service, to ensure that a professional hand has seen to each part of the car and ensured its ongoing safety.
Brake Failure
Brake failure is one of the more terrifying entries on this list. The brakes are a fundamental aspect of driving and something that drivers use almost subconsciously. The sudden failure of braking systems can quickly result in the driver losing control, with immediate risks to all around them.
Brake failures are often caused by leaking brake fluid, which is used to hydraulically control the brake discs or drums behind the wheel. Alternatively, the brake pads themselves could be worn to failure. Brakes should be serviced every six months, and pads checked for potential replacement every three.
Tyre Issues
Tyres are easy to forget about when it comes to car maintenance. They seem less essential to worry about than brakes or the engine itself, but their need for regular replacement makes them much more of a risk. Older tyres are less flexible and offer less traction; UV exposure can lead to sidewall cracking and the threat of a blowout while driving. General wear and tear reduce the size of the tyre tread, further endangering road grip. Failure to replace old tyres can result in serious injury as a result.
Steering Failure
All modern vehicles utilise power steering as standard; power steering is a hydraulically-assisted steering system that enables the driver to turn with ease, despite high road resistance. But the addition of this system, while being overwhelmingly advantageous and safer for drivers of all stripes, adds another point of failure to the average car.
Alongside power steering failures, there are also suspension and transmission failures that can impact steering. Issues with the car’s differential can make steering difficult, while suspension failures can cause the car to veer.
Engine Failure
Finally, and most catastrophically of all, we come to engine failure. There are myriad reasons why an engine might fail, but the most common culprits relate to cooling and lubrication. Regular oil changes are essential for the engine to work as it should, and old oil can be more of an impediment than a lubricant. Meanwhile, radiator leaks or failure to top up coolant can cause parts to fail much quicker, leading to a potentially fatal road traffic incident.