Company car drivers are being urged to conduct maintenance checks on their vehicles over the holidays to minimise the risk of a breakdown when they return to work. 

The warning comes as some people opt to extend their Christmas break, returning to work on 5 January 2009, leaving vehicles parked for long periods and, in some cases, left unused.

Frank Flynn, information manager for RAC technical, said: “The lack of use of vehicles between Christmas and New Year, as well as wintry conditions, makes a breakdown far more likely.

"We’re encouraging fleet drivers to conduct basic checks to their vehicles and factor in extra time when they return to work.

“In preparation for the potential extra demand, RAC has increased the number of patrols on duty by 20% more than on an average Monday in January to meet demand where necessary.”

RAC has put together some tips to help fleet drivers avoid the risk of a breakdown:

• Start and drive the vehicle the day before starting back to work, to ensure the battery has sufficient charge and allows the driver to check that all systems are working correctly - e.g. screen wash, wipers, lights etc.
• If fleet drivers have a garage, encourage them to use it, or leave the vehicle undercover.
• Check oil and water levels to ensure they are topped up correctly, paying particular attention to the anti-freeze content of the cooling system. Information on the correct anti-freeze should be listed in vehicle’s handbook.
• If a battery has been sluggish, fleet drivers should have it checked before it is too late. Most accessory shops and garages offer free testing.
• Avoid queues at petrol stations by filling up the tank before the morning you go back to work.