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As thousands prepare for next week’s pilgrimage to Glastonbury Festival 2025, the RAC has issued a stern warning to revellers: don’t let vehicle trouble ruin your weekend.
New data released by the RAC’s mobile servicing team has revealed the top breakdown causes at last year’s festival — with clutch problems, brake failures, and EV battery depletion topping the list.
Top Glastonbury Breakdown Causes
- Burnt-out clutches from stop-start traffic
- Brake wear and failure
- Low or flat EV batteries
- Punctured tyres and oil shortages
- Fuel leaks and engine faults
When to Travel: Avoiding Peak Gridlock
Traffic congestion is expected to build up from Tuesday evening, especially along the M4, M5, A303, and A361.
The RAC reports:
- M5 to A361 queues doubled between 8–9pm last year
- A37 southbound delays grew from 30 mins at 10am to 2+ hours by early afternoon
- A39 from Bridgwater saw half-hour delays as early as 7am
Pro Tip: Arrive early on Wednesday (before 7am) or later in the evening. Avoid peak traffic from 7am–2pm.
EV Drivers: Plan Your Charge
EVs running flat were a common issue last year. The RAC urges drivers to charge en route, not after arrival, as on-site charging may be limited and crowded.
“Charge points on site will be extremely busy. Ensure your battery has enough range to leave the festival, not just get there,” said RAC technician Tristan Kirk.
Apps like Zapmap or myRAC can help drivers locate nearby chargers or affordable fuel stations.
Car Park Access Tips
- Use the Blue Route from the A303 > A37 – shorter queues, more space
- Avoid the A39, which last year saw multi-hour delays
- Remember: car park queues alone can add hours to your journey
Leaving the Site: Monday Gridlock Warning
More than 210,000 attendees are expected to leave on Monday 30 June, with peak exit times between 8am–5pm.
In 2024:
- Delays to the M5 were up to 90 minutes longer
- A37 routes to Bristol/Chippenham saw queues by 7am
- Best exit windows: 1am–7am Monday, only if safe to drive
RAC’s On-Site Emergency Services
The RAC has teams stationed at the festival and can carry out repairs like:
- Broken suspension springs
- Torn tyres
- Faulty fuel injectors
- For fastest help, use the myRAC app or call RAC if not a member.
Final Checklist Before You Go
- Check oil, coolant, tyre pressure, and tread
- Inspect brakes and battery condition
- EV drivers: fully charge before local roads
- Pack essentials: water, snacks, charging cables, breakdown kit
Don’t let an ironic breakdown spoil the festival. Plan ahead, arrive early, and drive smart.
