Top 5 Most Common Reasons for Breakdowns in Anchorage — and How to Avoid Them
Breakdowns never happen at a convenient time. Whether it is a freezing morning on the Glenn Highway or a grocery run that ends in a parking lot call to a tow truck, vehicle issues can strike anywhere. For Anchorage drivers, harsh weather and rough roads make certain problems more common than others. Understanding these issues and how to prevent them can keep you off the shoulder and on schedule.
Here are the top five causes of breakdowns in Anchorage and a few practical tips to help you avoid them.
Dead Batteries
Cold temperatures are tough on batteries. As temperatures drop, the chemical reaction that generates power inside your battery slows down, reducing performance. Many Anchorage drivers discover the issue only when their car refuses to start on a frosty morning.
How to avoid it:
Have your battery tested before winter.
Replace it if it is more than three to four years old.
Keep jumper cables or a portable jump starter in your vehicle.
Flat Tires and Tire Damage
Anchorage roads can be unpredictable, especially after the winter thaw or during spring construction season. Nails, screws, and sharp debris are common causes of punctures. Potholes also significantly affect tire and wheel damage, particularly after heavy freeze-thaw cycles. A deep pothole can bend rims, break tire belts, and throw off alignment, leading to uneven wear and a higher risk of blowouts.
How to avoid it:
Check tire pressure weekly, especially during temperature swings.
Inspect your tires for bulges, cracks, or uneven tread.
Slow down when you cannot safely avoid a pothole, and have your alignment checked after any hard impact.
Overheating and Cooling System Issues
Even in cold climates, overheating can occur. A failed water pump, leaking coolant, or broken radiator fan can cause the temperature to spike quickly. Long drives on mountain grades in summer can push an already weak system to failure.
How to avoid it:
Inspect hoses and belts for wear before long trips.
Check coolant levels and top off as needed.
Have your cooling system flushed according to your manufacturer’s recommendations.
Running Out of Fuel
It happens more often than drivers admit. Long stretches of highway between Anchorage and outlying areas leave few refueling options, and winter storms can trap vehicles on the road longer than expected.
How to avoid it:
Refill when your tank is one-quarter full instead of waiting for the warning light.
Keep an emergency fuel can in your trunk if you travel frequently outside the city.
Plan routes with known gas stations if you are heading toward remote areas.
Electrical and Starter Problems
Electrical issues, from faulty alternators to corroded battery terminals, are a leading cause of no-start situations. These problems often manifest as dim lights, slow cranking, or intermittent power loss.
How to avoid it:
Watch for warning signs like flickering lights or dashboard errors.
Clean your battery terminals and have your charging system tested annually.
Schedule professional service if your vehicle struggles to start more than once.
Keeping Anchorage Drivers Moving
While not every breakdown can be prevented, routine maintenance and awareness go a long way. Potholes, temperature swings, and long winter nights all take a toll on vehicles in Alaska, but most problems start small before becoming emergencies.
If you find yourself stranded, Vulcan Towing & Recovery is here to help. From flat tires to dead batteries and emergency tows, our team provides fast, professional service across Anchorage and the surrounding area.
Stay prepared, drive safely, and keep your vehicle ready for whatever the road throws your way.