• Breakdown Basics: Common car problems faced by UK drivers (and how to prevent them)

    Breakdown Basics: Common car problems faced by UK drivers (and how to prevent them)

    This article was published on 03 November 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Whether you’re commuting, driving between bases, or heading home on leave, a vehicle breakdown can happen at any time – day or night, weekday or weekend. While there’s never a good time for your car to stop working, understanding the most common reasons can help you prepare, prevent issues, and get back on the road faster.

    This guide highlights the top causes of breakdowns in the UK and simple steps to reduce the risks – useful for anyone in the Armed Forces community who relies on their car.

    1. Flat or Faulty Batteries

    One of the leading causes of car breakdowns in the UK is a flat or failing battery.

    Causes:

    • Ageing batteries (typically after 3-5 years)
    • Short, infrequent journeys that don’t fully recharge the battery – common for drivers using their car mainly for base-to-home trips

    Prevention Tips:

    • Recharge your battery overnight every few weeks if your journeys are short
    • Replace the battery every 3-5 years, depending on usage

    2. Alternator Failures

    The alternator recharges your battery and powers essential electrical systems.

    Warning Signs:

    • Flickering battery light
    • Dim headlights
    • Slower-than-normal windscreen wipers

     Alternators can’t be maintained, but spotting problems early can save you from being stranded.

    3. Starter Motor Problems

    The starter motor draws power from the battery to start your car.

    Prevention:

    While there’s little you can do to avoid starter motor wear, regular servicing helps catch issues before they worsen – especially before long journeys or deployments.

    4. Tyre and Wheel Damage

    Punctures, blowouts, or other tyre damage are common on UK roads.

    Prevention Tips:

    • Check tyre pressure and tread depth regularly (especially before long journeys)
    • Carry a spare wheel or puncture repair kit
    • Ensure tyres always meet MOT standards

    5. Misfuelling

    Thousands of UK drivers each year put the wrong fuel in their car – most often petrol into diesel, as the nozzle fits easily into a diesel filler neck.

    If you misfuel:

    • Do not start the car
    • Don’t turn the ignition (this primes the fuel pump)
    • Call your breakdown provider or garage for specialist help

    6. Electrical System Faults

    Modern cars have increasingly complex electrics – faults can affect everything from headlights to infotainment.

    Tip: Other than replacing bulbs, leave electrical issues to a qualified mechanic who can run diagnostics safely.

    7. Low Oil Levels

    Running with low oil can cause severe engine damage, even complete failure.

    Prevention Tips:

    • Don’t rely solely on the oil warning light
    • Check oil levels regularly with the dipstick

    8. Lost or Locked-In Keys

    Lost keys or being locked out is a frequent issue. Many modern keys contain chips, making them secure but harder to replace.

    Prevention Tip:

    • Keep a spare key at home or with a trusted family member while you’re away on duty. Alternatively, if stranded call your breakdown provider or special locksmith.

    Breakdown cover that keeps you moving from £61.60 per year.

    Provided by ERS, Forces Mutual Rescue unlike the AA or RAC, doesn’t have a fleet of branded vans, but utilises UK wide recovery specialists to rescue you 24/7 when your car breaks down.

    UK cover comes with:

    • Misfuelling cover
    • Lost keys and lock assistance
    • Home assistance
    • Onward travel provision should your car not be repairable

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    For full policy cover details including any exclusions, please call 0151 363 5290 or visit our website

    Forces Mutual Rescue (Breakdown Cover) is provided by ERS (Syndicate 218 at Lloyds).

    For your security, all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored.

    Alex Mculty

  • Electric Car Incentives: Is Now the Right Time to Make the Switch?

    Electric Car Incentives: Is Now the Right Time to Make the Switch?

    This article was published on 13 October 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    With electric vehicles (EVs) becoming part of everyday life, many UK drivers – including those in the Armed Forces and emergency services – are asking: is now the right time to switch?

    From government incentives to lower running costs, there are strong reasons to consider going electric. In this article, we’ll explore the current incentives, practical benefits, and how Forces Mutual can support you with car insurance tailored to your needs.

    Why Consider an Electric Car?

    Electric vehicles offer practical and financial benefits beyond reducing your carbon footprint:

    • Lower running costs – Electricity is generally cheaper than petrol or diesel, and EVs typically need less maintenance.
    • Clean Air Zone exemptions – EVs are often exempt from congestion and low-emission charges, saving you money on commutes or city travel, but it’s worth checking for the area which you drive in most frequently, as some exemptions will stop at the end of 2025 – e.g. London Congestion Charge exemption for 100% EVs will end on the 2 January 2026, replaced with a discount structure.
    • Government grants – While some national schemes have ended, several key incentives remain in place, detailed below:

    Current Incentives for UK Drivers

    There are numerous electric car incentives available:

    The government’s new Electric Car Grant launched in July 2025 and offers up to £3,750 off the cost of a new electric car, helping more drivers make the switch. The initiative also supports sustainable manufacturing across the automotive sector. The grant is only available for vehicles that have been approved as eligible and the list of cars/vehicles eligible for the grant can be found here: Eligible Grant Vehicles. It’s worth noting that the list is regularly updated and you don’t need to apply for it – your car dealer or manufacturer will handle this for you.

    The EV Chargepoint Grant offers up to £350 off the cost of installing a home charger, available to anyone who owns and lives in a flat or rents and lives in a residential property. Please note that is grant is not available on military bases or Ministry of Defence (MOD)-provided quarters. The MOD has been installing EV charging points at various sites to support its non-combat vehicle fleets and personnel. It may also be possible to have an EV charge point fitted at your Service Family Accommodation (SFA), but please check local availability.

    Is It the Right Time for You?

    Switching to an electric car is a personal decision, but with fuel prices remaining high and the UK’s plan for all cars to be 100% zero emission by 2035, now could be an ideal time to consider the move.

    EV technology and charging networks continue to improve, making electric driving more practical whether you’re commuting to base, travelling between stations, or planning family trips.

    Protect Your EV with Forces Mutual Car Insurance

    Whether you’re already driving electric or just exploring your options, having the right protection matters.  Forces Mutual Car Insurance is designed with the Military community in mind, giving you peace of mind, reliable cover and dedicated support.

    For more information about Forces Mutual Car Insurance and how you could benefit, visit our Car Insurance page here or call 0151 363 5290

    Forces Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS.

    Sarah Blair

  • Protect Your Car From Theft

    Protect Your Car From Theft

    This article was published on 18 August 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Car theft in the UK remains a real problem with over 61,000 vehicles were reported stolen in 2024. That’s around seven cars an hour, according to DVLA data obtained by What Car?  While this represents a modest 6% decrease from the previous year, the figures remain alarming.

    For members of the British Armed Forces and your families, your lifestyle often means parking in a mix of locations – on secure bases, at home, in public car parks, or even leaving vehicles behind during deployments. While military bases often offer a higher level of security, no location is completely risk-free. That’s why it’s important to take simple, effective steps to protect your vehicle wherever it’s parked.

    Keyless Cars: Modern Convenience, Modern Risk

    If your car has keyless entry, it’s worth knowing it can also be more vulnerable to theft – especially from relay attacks. Thieves can use devices to clone the signal from your key fob and drive off in seconds, without breaking a window or forcing entry.

    Here are some simple but effective steps, as recommended by Thatcham Research, to help protect keyless vehicles:

    • Update software: Check with your car dealer about any security updates.
    • Disable key fobs: Some key fobs can be switched off when not in use – ask your dealer how.
    • Use a signal-blocking pouch: Also known as a Faraday pouch, this can stop the signal being stolen.
    • Store keys safely: Keep them away from doors and windows – don’t leave them in easy-to-reach spots.
    • Be alert: Keep an eye out for suspicious behaviour, especially around car parks or your driveway.

    Everyday Tips to Prevent Car Theft

    Whether your car is keyless or not, there are everyday steps that can reduce your risk:

    • Always lock doors and close windows, even if stepping away for just a moment.
    • Never leave your car running unattended – not even on cold mornings.
    • Keep valuables out of sight or remove them from the vehicles.
    • Park in well-lit, secure areas when possible.
    • Use visible security devices like steering wheel locks or gear stick locks.
    • Consider a car alarm or tracking system – some may also reduce your insurance premium.

    Secure Your Driveway or Parking Space

    Even at home or on base, extra protection helps. Here’s how to make your vehicle less attractive to thieves:

    • Install a home CCTV system. Basic home systems are affordable and can deter opportunists.
    • Use motion-activated lights. Thieves prefer the dark – keep your space well-lit.
    • Be cautious with key storage. Avoid leaving keys in obvious places like hooks near the front door or in view when you’re out and about.

    Remember, the more layers of security you have, the less appealing your car is to thieves.

    Car Insurance that understands Military Life

    At Forces Mutual, we understand the demands of military life – frequent moves, deployments, or secure base living. That’s why Forces Mutual Car Insurance is designed with serving personnel and your families in mind – Cover comes with features you won’t typically find in standard policies. T&Cs apply.

    Learn more about Forces Mutual Car Insurance offering here or call 0151 363 5290 to speak with our friendly team.

    Forces Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS.

    Tereza Macegova

  • Smart Ways to Cut the Cost of Motoring

    Smart Ways to Cut the Cost of Motoring

    This article was published on 20 June 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Running a car in the UK isn’t cheap. According to NimbleFins, the average annual cost in 2025 is over £3,350. But with a few smart strategies, you could reduce your motoring expenses—without compromising safety or performance.

    Whether you’re stationed in the UK or preparing for deployment, here are some practical tips to help you save money on your vehicle.

    1. Save on Servicing

    Regular servicing keeps your car running smoothly and helps avoid costly repairs down the line. But you don’t have to pay over the odds:

    • Shop around for competitive servicing quotes.
    • Stick to the manufacturer’s service schedule to maintain performance and resale value.
    • Keep a full service history—this can boost your car’s value when it’s time to sell.

    2. Look After Your Tyres

    Tyres are vital for safety and fuel efficiency. Here’s how to extend their life:

    • Check tyre pressure regularly—incorrect pressure increases wear and fuel use.
    • Inspect tread depth and remove debris like stones.
    • Get your wheels aligned—misalignment can double tyre wear.

    Remember: UK law requires a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. Many experts recommend replacing tyres at 3mm for better grip and safety.

    3. Lighten the Load

    Carrying unnecessary weight—like kit bags, tools, or sports gear—can increase fuel consumption. Clear out your boot and remove roof racks or boxes when not in use to improve fuel economy.

    4. Drive Smarter, Save Fuel

    Your driving habits have a big impact on fuel efficiency. Try these techniques:

    • Accelerate and brake gently.
    • Maintain a steady speed—most cars are most efficient between 30–50 mph.
    • Avoid idling—use start-stop tech if your car has it.
    • Use air con and electrics sparingly—they increase fuel use.
    • Change gear early but avoid straining the engine.

    You can estimate your fuel usage using free online calculators like those at Fuel-Economy.co.uk.

    5. Choose a Car with Lower Emissions

    If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, consider one with low CO₂ emissions:

    Cars over £40,000 attract an additional annual charge of £425, unless they’re zero-emission and registered before April 2025.

    6. Prepare for Winter Driving

    Cold weather can be tough on vehicles. Get ahead of the season with these checks:

    • Lights – Clean and check all bulbs.
    • Screenwash – Use a winter-grade mix to prevent freezing.
    • Battery – Cold weather drains batteries faster—test or replace if needed.
    • De-icer and scraper – Keep them handy for frosty mornings.
    • Winter tyres – Optional in the UK, but useful if you’re driving in snow or abroad.

    7. Review Your Car Insurance

    If you’re not already insured with Forces Mutual, it might be time to switch:

    • Spread the cost monthly at no extra charge.
    • Switch anytime—we’ll cover cancellation fees up to £125 from your current insurer.
    • Tailored cover for armed forces personnel.

    Learn more about Forces Mutual Car Insurance here.

    Forces Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS.

    Sarah Blair

  • Car & home insurance – how do you make sure you get the best value for your needs compared to the cost?

    Car & home insurance – how do you make sure you get the best value for your needs compared to the cost?

    This article was published on 2 June 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Price increases and rising inflation are putting a lot of pressure on household finances. Many people are actively reviewing their finances and cutting back or eradicating expenditure where possible to make savings.

    Payments and prices will come under the spotlight. But it’s not always a case of searching out the lowest cost, you need to consider your personal needs and the value you want your policy to provide.

    Take insurance premiums for example. Car insurance is a legal requirement in the UK, but home insurance isn’t. So, at the extreme, someone could risk not insuring their home to save outgoings. But what a risk! Damage to the house structure or loss of home contents could be incredibly expensive to redress.

    So, how could you manage the amount you pay for your insurance whilst making sure it is still adequate for your needs? Options to look at could include opting to pay a higher excess in the event of a claim, or not covering your home contents for accidental damage. When considering options like this you would need to consider how you would cover any additional costs that might arise in the event of a claim. For example, consider if you could afford to pay the higher excess in the event of a claim, or how you would replace items subject to accidental damage if you decided not to take that level of cover out with your policy. 

    Some insurance policies may promote a lower headline cost, but either not include certain elements that you personally would find useful or need, or make you pay extra for elements that you want to make use of.

    Examples include:

    • You might want to consider a car insurance policy that provides a courtesy car. If as a result of a claim your car needs to go in for repairs you would need to make arrangements to remain mobile for the period that your car is being repaired.
    • You might want to consider a home or car insurance policy that doesn’t charge to make changes during the time you hold the policy with the insurer. Changes you may need to make during the year could include mileage changes, address changes, insured driver changes and provision of duplicate documents. If your job or occupation changes, you might need to change your home or car insurance cover, for instance, if you become self-employed and work from home. If your policy charges for amendments these can add costs to your original premium paid.
    • You may want to review what policy extras you actually need, being mindful that you would need to consider how you would cover any additional costs arising if you decided to exclude policy add-ons.
    • Specialist Military car insurance policies may or may not include cover on or off base, or laid up cover, just in case you get called up for duty and need to lay up your car. If you are serving military personnel, you may want to make sure your policy covers you for this.

    So, it pays to look beyond the headline cost and get a policy that works for you and your specific needs.

    Reviewing your policy could make sure you have a policy that meets your individual needs and help reduce the chances of you being hit with any unexpected costs.

    If you are reviewing your insurance premium costs as part of your household finances review, you may be interested to know that you don’t need to wait until your renewal date to review and switch your insurance policy.

    Even if you took out an annual policy paid upfront as a lump sum, you may be able get a refund on some of your premiums and switch to a new insurer of your choice. However, some insurance companies may apply a cancellation charge for moving away from them during the term of the policy. You can help protect yourself from these charges by moving to an insurer that will pay some or all of the cancellation fees charged by your old insurer.

    We don’t currently offer home insurance, but if you moved your car insurance to Forces Mutual, any cancellation fees charged by your old insurer up to a maximum of £125 will be paid. So, you can move straight away without waiting till renewal time. To give you an idea of cancellation charges, the average cancellation charge levied in 2024 (after the 14-day cooling off period) for car insurance was £55.[1] Your existing policy documents should tell you what your exact cancellation charge would be.

    You can check out Forces Mutual Car Insurance here.

    Forces Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS.

    PMGI Limited, trading as Forces Mutual is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register No. 114942. Registered in England & Wales No.1073408. Registered office: Brookfield Court, Selby Road, Leeds, LS25 1NB. For your security, all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored.

    [1] Average Cost to Cancel UK Car Insurance (2024) | NimbleFins

    Sarah Blair

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  • Electric Vehicles – a quick guide

    Electric Vehicles – a quick guide

    This article was published on 13 December 2024. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    With the UK Government pledging to reinstate the 2030 ban on the sales of new internal combustion engines (ICE) or put more simply, petrol and diesel cars/vans, we thought it would be a good idea to give you a quick guide on electric vehicles (EV).

    What is an Electric Vehicle (EV)?

    The Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology official description is:

    Electric Vehicles use electric motors to drive their wheels. They derive some or all of their power from large, rechargeable batteries. The distance an EV can drive between recharges is known as its range.

    Let’s have a look at the different types and some of the names you might have heard of:

    • All-electric EVs – where the battery is the only power source. The range (distance they can travel) will vary, according to driving style, terrain and the use of auxiliary equipment such as heating/air conditioning.
    • Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs) – can switch between running on electricity, petrol or diesel. They typically have a smaller battery, and therefore a lower battery powered range of between 10-40 miles. However their maximum range is equivalent to a petrol or diesel car. Both Plug-in Hybrid and all-electric EVs are recharged by plugging them in to the electricity grid.
    • Hybrids (HEVs) – which do not plug in, such as the Toyota Prius, have a much smaller battery which is recharged while driving. HEVs can drive in electric mode for a few miles and then revert to using petrol or diesel.
    • Fuel Cell Vehicles – generate their own electricity on-board from a fuel such as hydrogen, and do not need to plug in to the electricity grid to recharge. Re-fuelling is similar to a petrol or diesel car.

    Which type of EV is best for me?

    This is a personal choice and will be dependent on a number of factors including, affordability, the type and distance of journeys you make and charging infrastructure where you live.

    According to a UK Government report, 99% of car journeys in England are under 100 miles, so most could be made by an EV without needing to recharge.

    How much do EVs cost?

    Currently EVs cost more to buy than a comparable petrol or diesel vehicle. While they have less mechanical parts than a conventional vehicle, battery prices are a substantial cost. Many modern EVs use lithium-ion batteries and it takes a lot of time and effort to turn raw lithium into something that can be used. Some manufacturers offer incentives and lease plans for the battery, so include this in your car purchase research.

    As EVs become more popular and manufacturers produce more vehicles and models, plus technology improvements, prices are anticipated to reduce.

    Vehicle range

    While vehicle range isn’t an issue with hybrids, as they will run on petrol and diesel, in addition to electric, vehicle range has always been a concern for drivers. It’s therefore encouraging to hear that according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the average electric range for new EVs launched in 2023 was nearly 300 miles, compared to 210 miles in 2020. Of course, some of this will be reflective of the driving conditions, roads and the way you drive, plus use of aircon and technology within the vehicle.

    Charging points

    The term “range anxiety” describes a very real fear of running out of battery and knowing where to charge it up.

    While you can have a charger fitted at home, clearly there will be times when you need to recharge when out and about.

    The good news is that, the number of charging points is increasing. According to Zap Map the number of charging points grows by the day and at the end of October 2024, there were 71,459 electric charging points across 36,060 charging locations (UK only). This represents a 38% increase in the total number of charging devices since October 2023.

    In October 2024, 1,025 new charging devices were added to the Zap-Map database. You can view local ones to you or your journey at zap map live – you might not have even known they were there!

    What about insuring your EVs

    Do I need specialist insurance?

    The simple answer is no. Whilst you can buy specialist insurance for your EV, most major insurers now cover electric cars.

    Does it cost more to insure an EV?

    This can depend on the EV you choose, but according to wepoweryourcar.com, on average, insurance is more expensive than petrol and diesel vehicles in the UK.

    This could be linked to expensive parts, higher repair costs and the availability of garages with qualified mechanics. While electric cars have fewer moving parts than petrol or diesel vehicles, some components like the lithium-ion batteries are very expensive to repair if damaged.

    As EVs become more commonplace this may change, but also remember that electric cars may benefit from other savings, such as congestion charges and zero vehicle road tax, but it is worth noting that from April 2025, EVs will pay Vehicle Excise Duty (VED).

    Car insurance from Forces Mutual

    Forces Mutual Car Insurance offers policies for a range of EVs. You don’t need to buy a special EV policy and you can get a quote in the usual way.

    You can either call us on 0151 363 5290 or go online at www.forcesmutual.org/car

    Forces Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS.

    PMGI Limited, trading as Forces Mutual, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register No. 114942. Registered in England & Wales No. 1073408. Registered office: Brookfield Court, Selby Road, Leeds, LS25 1NB.

    For your security, all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored.

    WC CI WEB 0003/0004 v 2 29.11.24

    Tereza Macegova