Rising or volatile diesel fuel prices can change how you plan journeys and manage running costs, and they can increase the chance of being stranded if you delay refuelling. This short guide explains practical steps UK drivers can take to reduce the risk of a diesel-related breakdown and what to do if you do run out or have a problem on the road.
Before you set off
- Check the fuel gauge and plan refuelling stops for longer journeys. Keeping the tank at a sensible minimum (for example, avoiding regularly running very low) reduces the chance of being stranded between stations.
- Plan your route and note likely fuel stations using mapping apps or the sat-nav so you aren’t routing through long gaps between services.
- Carry contact details for your recovery provider and breakdown cover. If you’re away from home, save the recovery number in your phone and pin the provider’s contact page for quick access.
- Keep up basic vehicle checks (oil, coolant, tyres and warning lights) — a mechanical problem can become more serious if you run low on fuel while trying to nurse a vehicle home.
If you run low on diesel or stop because of a fault
If you are able to move your vehicle, get to a place of relative safety — a parking area, lay-by or service area is safest. On motorways, the Highway Code advises leaving the carriageway at the next exit or pulling into a service area where possible; if you can’t, move into the left lane and stop as far left as possible, then get to safety away from traffic when it is safe to do so.
Follow these key safety steps from the Highway Code if you break down:
- Warn other traffic by using your hazard warning lights and, where appropriate, sidelights.
- Where it is safe, get yourself and passengers well away from the vehicle and moving traffic; use high-visibility clothing if available.
- Do not attempt repairs on a motorway or busy high-speed road; use the emergency telephones or call for assistance.
- Do not place a warning triangle on a motorway.
- If you cannot exit your vehicle safely, stay inside with seat belts and hazard lights on and call the emergency services if necessary.
These steps reflect the Highway Code rules on breakdowns and incidents; see the official guidance for full detail: The Highway Code – Breakdowns and incidents (275–287).
When to call a recovery service
- If you cannot reach a safe place, cannot restart the vehicle, or feel unsafe, contact a recovery service rather than attempting roadside repairs.
- If you have broken down on a motorway and cannot leave the carriageway safely, use the emergency telephone, press your vehicle SOS button if fitted or call 999 for the police.
- Keep the recovery provider informed of your exact location — marker posts, driver location signs and app coordinates are helpful on high-speed roads.
If you need professional help, UK Breakdown Recovery provides 24‑hour roadside assistance, motorway recovery and accident recovery across London and key routes such as the M4, M40 and M25 — see our service details and contact page for assistance.
For a closer look at how fuel issues can affect motorists and recovery planning, see our article on diesel rationing and breakdown recovery: Diesel rationing and breakdown recovery: how UK motorists can prepare.
Need help now?
If you are stranded or require recovery, please contact our team via the UK Breakdown Recovery contact page: Contact UK Breakdown Recovery.
