An overheated engine or filling up with the wrong fuel is not responsible for the majority of telephone calls made for roadside assistance; a simple flat tyre is the most frequent culprit. That is, at least, amongst hire car drivers abroad.

Leasing company ALD Automotive has compiled a top 5 of the most frequently reported breakdown causes amongst hire car drivers abroad. According ALD, a flat tyre is top of the list because most hire cars are no longer supplied with a spare wheel. A flat battery is at number 2 and the top 3 is completed by a burnt out...