Car breakdown cover is essential for any driver who wants to ensure they are protected in the event of a breakdown. It is a service that provides assistance to drivers when their vehicle experiences a mechanical or electrical fault, leaving them stranded on the side of the road. In this article, we will discuss what breakdown cover is, how it works, who needs it, how much it costs, and why it’s important to compare breakdown cover to get the best deal.
What is breakdown cover?
Breakdown cover is a service that provides assistance to drivers when their vehicle breaks down. This can include towing the vehicle to a garage, providing roadside assistance, and arranging for alternative transport to help the driver continue their journey.
How does breakdown cover work?
If your car breaks down, you can call your breakdown provider’s emergency number, and they will send out a technician to your location. The technician will try to fix the problem at the roadside, but if they can’t, they will tow your vehicle to a nearby garage. Depending on the level of cover you have, the breakdown provider may also offer alternative transport to help you continue your journey.
READ: Breakdown cover guides
Who needs breakdown cover?
Anyone who owns a car can benefit from breakdown cover. Even the most reliable cars can break down unexpectedly, and without breakdown cover, you could find yourself stranded on the side of the road with no help in sight.
How much does breakdown cover cost?
The cost of breakdown cover varies depending on the level of cover you require and the provider you choose. On average, basic cover can cost as little as £20 a year, while more comprehensive policies can cost upwards of £100 a year.
Can I add breakdown cover to my car insurance policy?
Some car insurance policies include breakdown cover as standard, but this is not always the case. If your policy doesn’t include breakdown cover, you can add it as an optional extra.
Why should you compare breakdown cover?
It’s important to compare breakdown cover to ensure you get the best deal for your needs. Different providers offer different levels of cover at varying prices, so it’s worth shopping around on comparison sites like Comparoo where they compare the UK’s leading breakdown providers to find you the best policy at the best price.
Breakdown cover FAQ’s:
What is covered by breakdown cover?
Breakdown cover can include services such as roadside assistance, recovery, onward travel, and home start.
What level of cover do I need?
This depends on your individual circumstances, such as how often you use your car and how far you travel. Basic cover may be sufficient for some, while others may require more comprehensive cover.
How quickly will the breakdown provider arrive?
Response times vary depending on the provider and level of cover. Some providers offer a fast response time, while others may take longer but they will prioritise vulnerable people first.
Can I choose my own garage?
Some breakdown providers allow you to choose your own garage, while others will take your vehicle to the nearest available garage.
Can I get breakdown cover for multiple cars?
Yes, many breakdown providers offer multi-car policies that cover all vehicles in your household.
Can I get breakdown cover for a vintage or classic car?
Yes, many providers offer specialist breakdown cover for vintage and classic cars.
Is breakdown cover valid if someone else is driving my car?
This depends on the policy, but most breakdown providers offer cover for any driver of the insured vehicle.
Can I get breakdown cover if my car is over a certain age?
Yes, most providers offer breakdown cover for vehicles of any age, although the cost may be higher for older cars.
Will breakdown cover affect my no-claims bonus?
No, breakdown cover is not related to your car insurance no-claims bonus.
