Subject: Leaving early. Hi [Manager], My car has broken down and I'll need to leave by [time] to sort it; I'll finish the essentials first. Thanks, [Name].
By email
How to Email Your Boss About A car breakdown
When your workplace expects things in writing, a short email about a car breakdown keeps a clear record. Put the key facts up front.
Say what you need, briefly
A breakdown can strand you or force you to deal with recovery. Say your car has broken down, with a time and plan.
Structure it as a short email
In an email, lead with a plain subject line, put the day and leaving time in the first line, add one line on how your work is covered, and keep a courteous sign-off. An email should be shorter than a chat message, not longer.
Example messages
Subject: Leaving early. Hi [Manager], I'm waiting on breakdown recovery and may need to leave at short notice; I'll stay reachable. Thanks, [Name].
Subject: Leaving early. Hi [Manager], Car trouble means I need to head off by [time]; I can pick up quieter tasks from home once sorted. Thanks, [Name].
Mistakes to avoid
Don't write a long paragraph or bury the ask. Put the day and leaving time in the first line so it's seen at a glance.
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This page shares wording ideas, not legal or HR advice. Follow your own employer's time-off policy.
Common questions
Do I need to give details?
No. A car breakdown is a complete, understandable reason.
Email or a quick message?
Use email where a written record is expected; a chat message is fine elsewhere.