Flat tyres let EVs down, not flat batteries

The most common cause for electric car breakdown call-outs is a flat tyre, says leading breakdown provider Start Rescue.

“Our data shows 29% of electric car call-outs are due to a flat tyre” says Lee Puffett, Managing Director of Start Rescue. “This is similar to petrol and diesel cars as many new cars no longer have a spare wheel fitted in order save weight and emissions, and larger puncture holes cannot always be repaired with foam sealant.”

Start Rescue’s data shows that EV battery range is not an issue for electric car drivers. However, they still need to look after the 12-volt battery that powers the same functions as petrol and diesel cars, such as the dashboard which enables the vehicle to start, as well as lights and wipers.

The good news is, from Start Rescue’s own data, EVs are less likely to suffer from a flat battery call-out than petrol or diesel cars. For EVs, this accounts for 23.7% of call-outs compared to 29.7% for petrol and diesel. Regular use will keep the 12-volt battery in good condition and avoid breakdown call-outs as EVs still need this system to open the doors and start.

Lee Puffett adds: “Like any car, EVs need to be driven to avoid the 12-volt battery going flat over time. EVs can be more complex to repair at the roadside – our data shows a petrol or diesel car is twice as likely to be fixed at the roadside – so it is vital to look after your EV’s 12-volt battery.”

If you do need to call for a breakdown, Start Rescue is the quickest to respond. In the latest What Car? Survey of Best Breakdown Cover, Start Rescue came top for best response time, reaching 77% of call-outs in 30 minutes to an hour and didn’t leave anyone waiting for more than two hours. Start Rescue also won best in the survey for performing temporary repairs that let people continue with their journeys.

Start Rescue has a 4.4-star rating on Trustpilot, a five-star Defaqto* rating and has achieved Which? Recommended Provider status for five years running. Start Rescue also has a 97% recommendation rate from customers helped at the roadside.

Launched in 2009, Start Rescue is an integral part of the nation’s fourth largest breakdown and recovery service, Call Assist, which now has more than two million UK customers.