What does it mean when a car breaks down?
2 Answers
Car breakdown refers to a situation where a vehicle malfunctions and stops running. The term "breakdown" originally meant a ship dropping anchor and ceasing to sail. When a car breaks down, it is also referred to as "breaking down," which is an extended meaning of the term. Solutions for a car breakdown: Turn on hazard lights: This alerts other vehicles approaching the broken-down car to slow down and be prepared to stop. Move the car to a safe location: If the car cannot be started, shift the gear to neutral (N) and, if safe, move the car to the far right side of the road or highway. Avoid parking the car in blind spots of other vehicles or hazardous areas such as intersections. Place a triangular warning sign: Place a reflective warning sign behind the car to make it more noticeable to other drivers. On regular roads, place the warning sign at least 20 meters behind the car. On highways, the distance should be at least 60 meters. Open the trunk and hood: Open the trunk and hood to further alert other drivers. Exit the car: For safety reasons, do not stay inside the car or stand around it while waiting for assistance. If you must stay near the car, stand on the side farther from oncoming traffic. Call for help: If the car breaks down on a highway and you don’t have a mobile phone, go to the nearest emergency phone booth to call for assistance. If the car breaks down in a tunnel, use the nearest emergency phone to contact the control center for help.
I experienced a breakdown during my last road trip when the engine suddenly started making a clunking noise on the highway, prompting me to pull over immediately. This sudden stalling and loss of power while driving is what we call a breakdown. The most common cause is engine failure—low oil can cause cylinder scoring, while insufficient coolant leads to overheating. Electrical systems often fail too; a dead battery or faulty alternator can cut power to the entire vehicle. Tire issues are even more dangerous—a colleague once lost control after a blowout and hit the guardrail. If your car breaks down, turn on the hazard lights immediately, place a warning triangle behind the vehicle, and move behind the guardrail to call for help. Never attempt repairs in the fast lane—it's way too risky. Regular vehicle checks can prevent 60% of breakdowns.
