A comprehensive study by Therman Law Offices has uncovered why America’s breakdown crisis is accelerating, and it comes down to two key issues: neglected maintenance and aging cars.
In 2023, there were 69 million vehicle breakdowns nationwide, costing Americans $44 billion annually. Behind these numbers is a record-breaking vehicle age average of 12.6 years, a symptom of economic pressures that have kept older cars on the road longer than ever before.
An Aging Fleet Under Strain
Of the 286 million registered vehicles in the U.S., 44% were built in 2014 or earlier. Many of these cars rely on outdated parts and worn-out systems that can’t withstand extreme conditions.
AAA data shows that vehicles over 10 years old account for two-thirds of all roadside calls and 81% of vehicles that require towing. With Americans driving older cars longer, breakdowns have become an everyday occurrence rather than a rare inconvenience.
Top Breakdown Causes
Mechanical degradation is the primary factor:
- Battery failure: 30% of all breakdowns.
- Cooling system malfunction: 11% of cases.
- Tire issues: Cause 82,000 crashes annually.
Routine maintenance could prevent many of these issues, but 35% of drivers admit to skipping recommended service, often due to cost or lack of urgency.
Seasonal Breakdown Trends
Breakdowns spike during summer, when heat strains cooling systems and batteries. AAA responded to 8.3 million calls during the summer months, followed by 8.1 million in winter. The third quarter (July–September) alone represents 27% of all annual breakdowns, confirming late summer as the riskiest driving period.
Recalls Add to the Risk
Beyond mechanical wear, vehicle recalls remain a serious concern. Over 1,000 recalls in 2023 affected 32 million vehicles, many involving braking, steering, and fuel systems. Yet 25% of recalled vehicles remain unrepaired, leaving millions of drivers exposed to breakdowns, or worse.
Ford and Chrysler led the list of recalled vehicles, together accounting for nearly 30% of all recalls.
A Costly Cycle for Consumers
Economic factors have forced Americans to drive older cars longer, creating a cycle of deferred maintenance and recurring breakdowns. “Drivers are stretching their vehicles further than ever, but the mechanical systems simply aren’t designed to last indefinitely,” the report says.
Legal and Safety Takeaways
Therman Law Offices urges drivers to take recalls seriously and to pursue legal remedies if vehicle defects or unrepaired recalls result in breakdowns or crashes.
“With over three decades of experience, our firm has seen firsthand how neglected recalls and mechanical failures can lead to devastating injuries and financial loss,” the firm stated.
“Routine maintenance is no longer just about keeping your car running, it’s about keeping you safe.”
