No matter how experienced a driver you are, the road is full of surprises — and not all of them are pleasant. From flat tyres and unexpected warning lights to forgotten appointments and locking yourself out of the car, even the best-prepared motorists can find themselves in a bind. Some of these mishaps are minor inconveniences, while others can cause serious delays and stress. The key is knowing how to respond quickly and sensibly, without letting panic take over.

One of the more common — and frustrating — moments is realising you’ve misplaced your car keys. It’s something most drivers will experience at some point, and it can happen when you’re in a rush or not paying close attention. If you’re not sure where to begin, here’s a practical guide on what to do if you lose your car keys, including steps to take immediately and how to get back behind the wheel without unnecessary hassle.

But keys aren’t the only thing that can throw a wrench in your day. Below, we explore some of the most common everyday driving problems and how to handle them with confidence.

1. Flat tyres on the go

A sudden flat tyre is never ideal, especially when you’re en route to work or picking someone up. If your tyre pressure warning light comes on or you notice a change in the car’s handling, pull over safely as soon as possible. It’s a good idea to keep a small emergency kit in your boot — including a tyre repair kit or portable inflator. If you’re not comfortable changing a tyre yourself, roadside assistance can usually sort the issue quickly.

To avoid future problems, check your tyre condition regularly and don’t ignore slow punctures or bulging sidewalls.

2. Running out of fuel

This one happens more often than people like to admit. Maybe you underestimated how far your tank would get you, or maybe you forgot to fill up the day before. Either way, running out of petrol or diesel can be a serious inconvenience, especially on a busy road or remote route.

If it happens, switch on your hazard lights and steer to the side of the road if possible. Most breakdown services will deliver enough fuel to get you going again. To prevent it in the future, make it a habit to top up once you hit the quarter-tank mark, rather than waiting for the warning light.

3. Dead batteries in the morning

You’re ready to leave the house, but the car doesn’t respond when you turn the key or push the button. A dead battery is a common issue, especially during colder months. Leaving interior lights or accessories on overnight is often the culprit.

If you have jump leads and another vehicle available, you can attempt a jump-start. Otherwise, a mobile mechanic or breakdown service is your best bet. It’s worth having your battery tested regularly — particularly if it’s over three years old — and consider replacing it if you’ve experienced more than one flat battery in a short space of time.

4. Dashboard warning lights you don’t recognise

Modern cars are filled with sensors and warning systems designed to keep you informed — but all those icons can be confusing. A flashing engine light, a tyre pressure symbol, or a message about emissions can leave you wondering what’s urgent and what can wait.

The owner’s manual will often clarify things, and many newer vehicles offer descriptions on-screen. However, when in doubt, it’s best not to ignore warnings. Driving with unresolved engine or brake issues could cause further damage or compromise your safety.

5. Getting locked out of your car

There’s a unique kind of frustration that comes from realising your keys are inside the car — and you’re not. This often happens when the boot or front door gets closed with the keys still on the seat, especially in vehicles with manual locks or no remote entry.

In these cases, it’s important not to attempt breaking in yourself, which could damage the vehicle. Instead, contact a professional locksmith or roadside service. Having a spare key stored in a secure but accessible location (like with a trusted friend or in a magnetic key box at home) can save time and stress.

6. Forgetting where you parked

It may sound trivial, but in large car parks or multi-level garages, it’s surprisingly easy to forget exactly where your vehicle is — particularly if you’re tired, distracted, or in a hurry.

Take a photo of the level and section number when you park, or use your phone’s GPS tagging feature to drop a pin. Some navigation apps even offer a “find my car” feature if you’re connected to your vehicle’s Bluetooth or Android Auto/Apple CarPlay.

7. Items left on the roof or boot lid

It’s easy to place your coffee, phone, or bag on the roof “just for a second” — and forget it’s there. Many drivers don’t realise until they hear an unexpected thud or clatter while pulling away. While this mistake can lead to property loss or damage, it’s also a safety risk if objects fall into traffic.

Make a habit of checking your car roof or boot before you set off, especially when loading up or talking to others during your routine.

8. Dealing with minor scrapes or bumps

Parking mishaps happen — even to confident drivers. A tight space, low visibility, or a distracted moment can result in a scratch or minor dent. If another car is involved, always exchange details, take photos, and record the situation clearly. For solo incidents, assess the damage and check whether it’s cosmetic or something that could affect driving safety.

Even if you don’t intend to claim on your insurance, it’s smart to keep a record in case a problem arises later on.

Staying calm is key

Most day-to-day driving mishaps can be resolved with a bit of patience and planning. Whether it’s learning how to handle a warning light, carrying the right emergency gear, or knowing what to do if you lose your car keys, preparation is your best defence against panic.

A cool head and a logical checklist will help you get back on the road quickly — and keep the day running as smoothly as possible.