What to Do If Your Car Won’t Start on the Roadside in the UK
Last updated: 3 August 2025
Step 1: Prioritise Your Safety
If you’re stuck on a motorway or a busy road, your first concern should be safety. Switch on your hazard lights immediately to alert other drivers. If you’re on a motorway, pull over to the hard shoulder or emergency refuge area if possible. Exit the vehicle using the passenger side and stand well away from traffic — ideally behind a barrier.
Step 2: Assess the Situation
Check whether the car shows any warning lights, odd sounds, or smells. This can help you determine the cause. Some problems can be fixed on the spot, while others will require professional assistance.
Step 3: Try Basic Troubleshooting
- Battery – Do the dashboard lights come on? If not, the battery may be dead.
- Gear – Make sure the car is in ‘Park’ (automatic) or ‘Neutral’ (manual).
- Clutch or brake – Try pressing the clutch (manual) or brake pedal (automatic) before starting.
- Key fob – The battery in your key might be flat. Try using a spare or holding it near the ignition.
- Fuel – Sounds obvious, but check your fuel level.
If the car still won’t start, don’t keep trying repeatedly — you could cause more damage or drain the battery further.
Step 4: Call for Breakdown Assistance
If you're a member of a breakdown service like the AA, RAC, or Green Flag, call them as soon as you're in a safe location. Most services can locate you via your phone or app. If you’re not a member, some providers offer emergency call-outs for non-members — though it may cost more.
Step 5: Contact National Highways (Motorway Emergencies)
If you’re stuck on a motorway and don’t have a mobile signal, look for an emergency SOS phone. These are spaced every mile and connect you directly to National Highways. A traffic officer may be dispatched to assist or help move your vehicle to safety.
Common Reasons Your Car Won’t Start
- Flat battery (most common cause)
- Faulty starter motor or alternator
- Fuel delivery issues
- Immobiliser or key fob fault
- Engine flooding (especially in older petrol cars)
What If You're Blocking Traffic?
If your car is causing an obstruction, call 999 and explain the situation. Police or highways officers may attend to help manage traffic and move your vehicle. Don’t try to push the car yourself unless it’s safe and legal to do so — this is rarely recommended on busy roads.