what to do when your car breaks down australia

When your car throws a tantrum, indicate early and roll to a safe spot well off the road, then kill the engine, handbrake on, and hazards flashing.

Get everyone out via the left side and stand well behind a barrier or on the verge—your paintwork is replaceable; you aren’t. Pop the bonnet to signal a breakdown and, if it’s safe, place a warning triangle; don’t play Frogger on a freeway. Call your roadside assistance (RACV, NRMA, RACQ, RAA, RAC, RACT, AANT) or 000 if there’s immediate danger, smoke, or you’re stranded in a live lane. Share clear location details—nearest exit, kilometre marker, or a landmark—and stay with the vehicle but out of traffic. Skip roadside tinkering unless you’re fully competent, and keep doors locked while you wait; your hero moment can wait for a quieter carpark.