Let’s face it, while there’s never a good time for our cars to break down or need repairs, it always seems worse when it happens in winter. Cold, wet weather makes being stuck by the roadside or having to rely on public transport that much worse. To minimize the chances of it happening, there are a few simple tasks you can do. As well as preventing some problems before they happen, they’ll help you spot other potential issues so you can get them resolved quickly. Keep an eye on your windscreen Inspect your windscreen, other windows and lights regularly to make sure there are no cracks. If you spot any, get the glass fixed or replaced as soon as possible....

We hope it will never happen, and if you keep on top of routine maintenance and have your car regularly serviced, the chances are it won’t. Sometimes, though, the unexpected happens – flat tires, a broken fan belt, an accident in bad weather – and you could end up stranded by the roadside. It’s a stressful situation but follow these steps to keep yourself safe while you wait for assistance to get you back on your journey. Stay calm It’s natural to panic, especially if you’re up against a deadline such as traveling to catch a flight. Try not to let it take over, though – keep your cool and you’ll cope far better with managing what’s happened. Look after...