Car broke down on the road: what to do right now
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If your car breaks down while driving, switch on the hazard lights, pull well off the road and put on a reflective vest. Place the warning triangle behind the car. If anyone is hurt or the car is in a dangerous spot, call 112. Otherwise check the warning lights and fuel, then call your insurer's breakdown line.
Steps
- Stop safely. Switch on the hazard lights and steer onto the hard shoulder, a lay-by or a car park where you won't block traffic. If the engine has died, use the momentum you still have.
- Make yourself visible. Put on a reflective vest before you get out. Place the warning triangle far enough behind the car that other drivers have time to slow down.
- Get everyone to safety. On a fast road don't stand next to or in front of the car. Get behind the barrier or away from the road.
- Check the warning lights. Note which lights are on in the dashboard. A red oil or temperature light means you must not restart the engine.
- Do the simple checks. Is there fuel? Are the battery terminals tight? Is anything leaking or steaming? Don't try to do more than that at the roadside.
- Call for help. In an emergency call 112. Otherwise call your insurer's or breakdown service's number. Give your location, the make of car and what happened.
- Book a diagnostic check. Once the car is somewhere safe, book a diagnostic check. We read the fault codes and tell you what's wrong. Repair price depends on the work involved, generally €45 per hour.
When not to drive any further
Want a definite answer?
Bring the car to our workshop in Estonia for diagnostics. We read the fault codes, test the sensors and tell you what is wrong. Repair price depends on the work involved, generally €45 per hour.
Frequently asked questions
Can I restart a car that has broken down?
If a red oil or temperature light is on, don't. The engine can be damaged within minutes. If there are no red lights, one attempt is fine.
Who do I call when my car breaks down in Estonia?
If anyone is hurt or the car is in a dangerous place, call 112. Otherwise call your insurer's or breakdown service's number, usually printed on your insurance policy.
Can I tow the car to the workshop myself?
For a short distance, if the brakes and steering work. Cars with an automatic gearbox usually must not be towed far, because the gearbox can be damaged. Check the owner's manual.
What should I tell the workshop?
Write down what happened before the breakdown: did any lights come on, were there noises or smells? It helps us find the fault faster.