Frequently Asked Questions
Breakdown cover is also sometimes called as breakdown recovery, breakdown insurance, emergency roadside repair or roadside assistance.
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Breakdown cover is like insurance that covers you for assistance in the event of a vehicle breakdown. A breakdown cover company will provide repairs to your vehicle at the roadside or tow your vehicle to a garage if necessary.
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Breakdown cover is not meant to be used as car maintenance but you will be covered for the following:
- Mechanical breakdown
- Accident damage
- Vandalism
- Fire
- Theft/attempted theft
- Flat battery
- Electrical failure
- Flat tyres
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Different companies include different benefits in their policies. You also have the option of a selection of add-ons such as Home Start or Onward Journey cover. Think about what you’ll actually need rather than just signing up for the biggest, most expensive cover.
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Yes, but check the provider’s terms and conditions for details.
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Most companies allow 14 days for you to cancel, but check the terms and conditions for details.
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The three companies listed above do offer online discounts, as do some of the smaller companies. Discounts typically range from 15-25 per cent.
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If you have person based cover then you’ll be covered for driving another vehicle. If you have vehicle cover then your car will be covered if someone else is driving it.
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Most policies don’t cover you at home unless you have added Home Start to your policy. Otherwise you’ll have to be a minimum of Ľ mile from your home to receive assistance, depending on the company you’re using. You might also be able to pay extra for assistance at your home when needed.
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You will receive a discount on your renewal fee (see Can I earn no claims discounts on my breakdown cover?)
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You do. Your breakdown policy covers you for roadside repairs or a tow. Any repairs carried out at a garage must be paid for by you.
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Most new cars come with a year’s breakdown cover so make sure you don’t end up buying something you already have.
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No, your car insurance doesn’t cover roadside assistance or tows unless you’ve had an accident. Do double check with your insurer though.
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No. You have to get specialist cover for a horse trailer.
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You can get breakdown cover for company vehicles but will have to get specific cover.
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Many companies actually offer discounts to Orange and Blue badge holders. They also offer assistance via a Minicom service for deaf/speech impaired drivers, and some also accept call-outs via text message.
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Check the details of your policy carefully, but many firms offer coverage for a range of vehicles including vans, towed caravans or trailers and even motor homes.
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Some breakdown policies cover European travel while others have the option of adding it on for the dates that you’re away, which is a good idea.
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Call both your insurer and your breakdown company who will advise you on exactly what to do, and make sure that you get any third party details.
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