Drivers issued car breakdown warning ahead of ‘Manic Monday’

Drivers have been warned that next Monday is expected to be one of the worst days of the year for car breakdowns.

January 5, the first working Monday of 2026, has been dubbed “Manic Monday” and the AA has predicted an increase in calls from drivers.

This will occur because cars left idle over the festive period are prone to problems.

The first Monday of last year saw 27 percent more breakdown requests compared to Monday, February 3, highlighting the recurrence of the problem.

Common complaints reported by drivers after Christmas include vehicles not starting and flat tires.

More than 22 million car journeys are expected to be made on Monday and the AA has urged drivers to carry out basic checks on their batteries and tires beforehand.

AA expert Shaun Jones expressed the frustration many will face.

He said: “Nobody likes going back to work after Christmas and New Year celebrations.

“The frantic rush of getting yourself ready in the morning, as well as waiting for the traffic jam that feels like the road to hell. Then the anger and frustration levels explode when your car won’t start or you notice a flat tire.”

Jones emphasized that these problems are mostly preventable, adding: “They are not a technological failure and can easily be prevented with a little planning and preparation.”

“Checking your car over the weekend and making sure it’s in good working order will relieve some of the stress as people head back to work.”