Drivers issued car breakdown warning ahead of Manic Monday'

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"Next Monday is expected to be one of the worst days of the year for car breakdowns, motorists have been warned. January 5, the first working Monday of 2026, has been dubbed Manic Monday, with AA anticipating a surge in calls from drivers. This is set to arise as cars left idle over the festive period are likely to be prone to issues."

The Independent covers reproductive rights, climate change and Big Tech and funds on-the-ground reporting to parse facts from messaging. Reporting and analysis remain freely accessible without paywalls and are financed through donations from those who can afford it. The outlet produces investigations and documentaries, including work on Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC and 'The A Word' about American women fighting for reproductive rights. January 5, 2026, dubbed Manic Monday, is expected to see a surge in car breakdowns as holiday-idle vehicles become prone to battery and tyre issues. Last year's first working Monday recorded 27% more breakdown requests than a comparison Monday, and over 22 million car journeys are projected. Drivers are urged to check batteries and tyres before setting off.

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