URGENT UPDATE: The RAC has just announced a critical reminder for drivers as they prepare for the New Year: turn off five key devices in your vehicle to avoid flat batteries. With many motorists hitting the roads this January, the RAC emphasizes the importance of switching off your lights, heater, fan, heated rear windscreen, and radio after every journey.
According to RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader Nick Mullender, “A flat battery at the start of the new year is more than enough to drain away the last of the Christmas spirit.” This essential advice comes at a time when millions of drivers are expected to travel, particularly on Mondays, increasing the likelihood of battery-related issues.
The RAC highlights that families with multiple vehicles, especially those who may leave one car unused during the festive season, are particularly at risk. Leaving a vehicle parked for extended periods, combined with cold weather, creates the perfect conditions for what Mullender describes as the “flat battery blues.”
Importantly, this risk is not limited to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. Electric vehicles also rely on 12-volt batteries for starting, making them equally susceptible to battery drain. The RAC advises all motorists to take their cars for occasional drives to maintain battery health, ensuring high-voltage batteries remain charged above 20% during winter months.
To further prevent battery failure, the RAC recommends inspecting battery connections regularly. Ensure that terminals are secure and free from corrosion, as battery acid can be highly damaging. Drivers should also test batteries that are over four years old, as older batteries are significantly more likely to fail in cold temperatures.
As the New Year approaches, the RAC stresses the importance of giving your vehicle a thorough run before it’s needed. A proper drive not only charges the battery but also warms the engine. Simply starting the car for a brief moment can exacerbate battery drain.
In light of these warnings, drivers are encouraged to unplug any devices, such as dashcams, that could deplete battery life overnight. As many people return from holiday travels or prepare for the busy January commute, taking these precautionary steps can save them from unexpected battery issues.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to monitor this developing situation. Share this crucial information with fellow drivers to help keep everyone on the road safely this New Year!
