First, make sure you’re safe. Switch on your hazard lights, pull over if you can, and stay inside your vehicle with your seatbelt on — unless it’s more dangerous to remain there.

Then, call for help. Call 1300 627 742 for Marshall Batteries and get 24/7 roadside assistance anywhere in Australia. No membership required.

Marshall can jump-start your car, replace a dead battery, bring fuel, or tow you if needed — and we’ll come to you, rain, hail or shine.

Read on for a full breakdown of what to do in any situation — including night-time breakdowns, motorways, and travelling with kids or pets.

Stay calm, follow these steps, and you’ll be back on the road in no time.

Pull Over Safely and Stay Visible

If your vehicle is still moving, steer it to the left-hand shoulder or into a breakdown bay if available. Avoid stopping abruptly.

• Turn on your hazard lights immediately.
• If visibility is low (rain, fog, night), turn on parking and interior lights.
• Use reflective triangles or flares if you have them.

Check Whether It’s Safer to Stay In the Car or Exit

• If on a motorway or near traffic, it’s usually safest to stay inside the vehicle with seatbelts on.
• If you must exit, do so from the passenger side, and move yourself and passengers well away from traffic.

Pets or kids in the car? Make their safety your priority — move them only when it’s safe and secure.

Don’t Try to Fix It Yourself

Unless you’re in a safe, off-road location and the issue is simple (like a flat tyre or you know how to jump start your car), don’t attempt DIY repairs. It’s not worth the risk — especially near fast traffic.

Call for Roadside Help (Even If You’re Not a Member)

Not all providers require a membership. Marshall Batteries offers pay-as-you-go roadside rescue across Australia.

We can help with:

• Flat battery jump starts or replacements
• Emergency fuel delivery
• Minor mechanical help
• Towing if needed

Call us on 1300 627 742 — rain, hail or shine.

Stay With Your Vehicle – But Stay Safe

Wait either inside the car (with seatbelt fastened) or at a safe distance behind a barrier if it’s safer to exit.

Don’t:

• Stand next to or behind your vehicle
• Try to wave down traffic
• Leave the scene (especially on a motorway)

Get Prepared For Next Time

A well-stocked breakdown kit can turn a disaster into an inconvenience.

Recommended emergency car breakdown kit:

• Torch or headlamp
• High-vis vest & reflective triangles
• Jumper leads or portable jump starter
• First aid kit
• Water, snacks, and blanket
• Phone charger (car or battery pack)

Marshall tip: Keep our number stored in your phone now → 1300 627 742

Know When It’s a Battery Problem

If your car won’t start but lights or radio still work — or if it struggles to turn over — there’s a good chance your battery needs replacing.

Marshall Batteries offers on-the-spot battery testing and installation. No tow required.

Use our battery finder to get a same-day quote from your local retailer.

FAQs

What should I do if my car breaks down on the motorway?

Turn your hazard lights on, pull to the far left if possible, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened, and call for help.

Can Marshall Batteries help if I’m not a member?

Yes — no membership required. Just call 1300 627 742 for immediate assistance.

How do I know if the battery is the issue?

If your engine is slow to crank or won’t start at all, but lights or radio still work, it’s likely a battery problem.