The RAC is to launch a ‘magic box’ for members which will remotely communicate with base to provide diagnostic information which could identify certain vehicle faults before they result in a stressful and inconvenient breakdown.

The revolutionary RAC Advance early warning system builds on current telematics technology but utilises the latest diagnostic software to build a comprehensive picture of how a vehicle’s systems are performing. In the event of a breakdown it will alert the RAC’s response team who can remotely connect with its onboard diagnostic software to identify the fault and give an accurate location for the motorist, enabling the rescue service to swiftly despatch a patrol pre-armed with the information and any necessary parts to solve the problem at the roadside.

RAC Advance will also act as an instant alert to the rescue service in the event of a serious accident using sophisticated recognition software and provide a useful time and location record for the motorist of the event.

All 1,700 RAC patrol vehicles have already been fitted with first generation devices and more than 35,000 fleet vehicles in the UK are already using the technology.

The device will be available to all existing and new RAC members during 2013 and will offer a host of additional functionality that will help to make motoring safer, easier and more affordable. It will also enable them to save up to £620 a year by helping them monitor their own driving efficiency resulting in better fuel economy and potentially rewarding them with a significant discount on their car insurance premium.

The device - the size of a matchbox - can be self-installed in minutes and can be accessed via a mobile app on the driver’s phone, enabling them to check multiple levels of performance, including their own driver score, accurate ‘taxman friendly’ mileage records, GPS tracking and other key information.