Preparing your university bound ‘children’ for their new lives away from the family home is emotionally tough and there are so many things to think about trying to educate them in for one last time, such as personal hygiene and being able to ‘drink in moderation’!

Most will fall on deaf ears but one thing you can make sure they are protected against is a car breakdown by taking out a breakdown policy for them.

It is also sensible to go over the essential points of basic car care with them such as checking and maintaining tyres and how to change a wheel.

Because they have been living at home they will probably never have had to think about what to do if they suffer a car breakdown or they get a flat tyre and a quick lesson could save them money and time.

They should also be made aware of when and where they should be getting their car serviced, while also keeping an eye on the top breakdown causes of not putting the wrong fuel in the car or not keeping the oil and fluids topped up.

You may also find it useful and calming to find a good garage near their university so that if they do have a car breakdown problem they can simply take it there and you know it will be in safe hands.

And if you are really well prepared (or concerned) it may be wise to pull together a little breakdown rescue kit, including their car breakdown policy number and phone number, a blanket, shovel for the winter and blankets.

For more advice on preparing you child’s car for university contact the Rescue My Car team on 0800 0199519.