1. RAC
2. Nick Mullender
3. UK
4. January
5. Christmas
6. Electric vehicles
7. 12-volt batteries
8. Four years (battery age)
9. Monday (upcoming date)
10. Festive period
UPDATE: The RAC has just announced urgent advice for drivers to prevent flat batteries this January. Motorists are being urged to switch off five essential features in their vehicles at the end of each journey to avoid being stranded.
As millions of drivers prepare to hit the roads, the RAC emphasizes the importance of turning off the lights, heater, fan, heated rear windscreen, and radio. The warning comes as many families take to their cars after the festive period, when vehicles are often left unused for extended times.
Nick Mullender, leader of the RAC mobile servicing and repairs team, highlighted the risk: “A flat battery at the start of the new year is more than enough to drain away the last of the Christmas spirit.” He added that drivers should unplug dashcams and other devices that can drain the battery overnight.
The RAC’s advice is especially crucial for families with multiple vehicles that may only have one in use during the holidays or for those returning from vacations where their cars have been parked for several days. The combination of a long break without use and the recent cold weather creates the perfect conditions for what Mullender calls the “flat battery blues.”
Electric vehicles are not immune to this issue. They, too, rely on 12-volt batteries for starting, making it essential for all drivers to stay vigilant. The RAC suggests that motorists should take their vehicles for occasional drives and maintain high-voltage battery levels above 20% during winter months.
To further prevent issues, the RAC recommends inspecting battery connections to ensure terminals are tight and free from corrosion. Remember, battery acid can be dangerous to both skin and paintwork. If your battery is over four years old, testing it for reliability is critical, as older batteries are more prone to failure in cold conditions.
As we head into Monday, when many will be returning to work and school, the RAC urges all drivers to take their cars for a proper drive to charge the battery and warm the engine. Simply starting the car for a brief moment can lead to even further battery drain. If your vehicle does not start, having additional time to sort out the issue could save significant hassle.
Stay prepared and avoid the inconvenience of a flat battery—follow these essential tips from the RAC and ensure a smooth start to the new year. Share this information with fellow drivers to help everyone stay safe on the roads as we transition out of the holiday season.
RAC Urges Drivers to Switch Off Five Key Features to Avoid Flat Batteries
