Electric Vehicle Breakdown Recovery — What’s Different and What to Expect

Electric vehicles are now a significant presence on UK roads, and with that comes a new type of breakdown situation. EV breakdowns differ from petrol and diesel in some important ways — here’s what every EV owner needs to understand.

The Most Common EV Breakdowns

Running out of charge. The EV equivalent of running out of fuel. Unlike a petrol car, you can’t carry a jerry can of electricity. If you’ve misjudged your range and run flat, you need recovery to a charging point or destination.

Charging system fault. The car may have charge but the onboard charging system isn’t accepting power. These faults are usually resolved by the manufacturer’s technical team or a dealership.

12V auxiliary battery failure. Almost all EVs still have a small 12V lead-acid battery that powers the electronics, lights and door locks — separate from the main traction battery. This smaller battery can fail just like in any other car and leave you unable to start the vehicle or sometimes even unlock it.

Traction battery warning. A fault in the main battery pack will usually trigger a warning and put the car into a reduced-power mode. The car may need recovery to a specialist.

Mechanical faults. Tyres, brakes and suspension are the same as any other vehicle. EV-specific features don’t make these go away.

EV Recovery — The Critical Difference

Most EVs cannot be towed with one or more wheels on the ground. Unlike an ICE vehicle where neutral gear allows the drivetrain to freewheel, in many EVs the electric motors generate a braking resistance (regenerative braking) when the wheels turn without power. Towing with wheels down can damage the motor.

Always request flatbed recovery for an EV. The car must be transported with all four wheels off the ground. If a recovery operator suggests towing your EV on a traditional two-wheel tow, decline — and call Jam’s instead.

We use flatbed transport for all EVs as standard. This isn’t a premium option — it’s simply the correct way to recover an electric vehicle.

Running Out of Charge

If you run out of charge, you can’t simply add a splash of electricity at the roadside. Your options are:

• Recovery to a rapid charger
• Recovery to your destination
• Recovery home

Some recovery operators carry mobile charge units, but this is rare and slow. The practical answer is usually a flatbed to the nearest compatible rapid charger.

What to Tell Recovery When You Call

If you’re calling about an EV:

• Confirm it’s electric (not hybrid)
• Tell them the make and model
• Confirm it needs flatbed recovery
• Tell them approximately how much charge remains
• Note any specific recovery requirements from your manufacturer’s handbook

Call Jam’s for EV Recovery

We provide flatbed EV recovery across Milton Keynes, Northampton, Bedford and surrounding areas. Call 07369 205 703 and tell us it’s an electric vehicle — we’ll confirm our equipment is suitable and give you an ETA and price.

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*Jam’s Breakdown & Recovery provides EV-compatible flatbed recovery across the Milton Keynes area. Available 24/7 on 07369 205 703.*