Motor breakdown cover is designed to provide 24/7 assistance year-round if your vehicle stops working. There are different levels of cover to choose from, meaning you can pick the car breakdown insurance policy that most suits your needs and budget. Benefit from:
- Peace of mind that you won’t get stranded if your car, van, or motorbike stops working
- Cover for electric vehicles (EVs), petrol and diesel vehicles
- Different levels of cover to suit your budget
- Monthly or annual payment options
- Completing just one form and comparing car breakdown insurance quotes online
A guide to car breakdown insurance
Breakdown cover gives you the peace of mind that if your vehicle (car, van, or motorbike) stops working, professional help will be dispatched to get you back on the road.
Depending on the level of cover you choose, your car or other vehicle will be repaired at the roadside (or at home if you have chosen a home start option). If it cannot be repaired, your vehicle will be towed to a garage if necessary.
Breakdown insurance is typically available for your car, van, or motorbike, as most standard motor insurance policies don’t automatically include this cover.
How does car breakdown cover work?
Breakdown cover usually operates on a 12-month basis, similar to a car insurance policy. When selecting your breakdown insurance, you’ll choose the level and type of cover you need and can add extras to customize your policy.
Most plans offer roadside assistance, and some may include home start.
What are the different types of car breakdown cover?
There are typically two types of breakdown insurance – personal cover and vehicle cover.
Personal cover: This type of cover is attached to a named driver rather than a specific vehicle. It allows you to request breakdown assistance when driving any vehicle (with the owner’s permission) that meets the policy conditions. With some, but not all, breakdown insurance providers, you are also covered if you are a passenger in someone else’s vehicle that breaks down.
Vehicle cover: This cover applies to a specific car, van, or motorbike, providing breakdown protection regardless of who is driving it. Any driver can use the vehicle and be covered, though they must have the owner’s permission.
What does breakdown insurance cover?
While there are different levels of breakdown cover and options, typically – and depending on which car breakdown insurance policy you choose – they may include all or some of the following elements:
- Roadside Assistance: Generally, this is the most common and often most affordable type of cover, offering help when your vehicle breaks down away from home.
- Home Start: If your vehicle breaks down or won’t start at home, home start recovery gets you moving again.
- Onward Travel: Helps you continue your journey if your vehicle can’t be repaired immediately.
- European Cover: Provides breakdown cover while traveling in Europe – this is typically not included in standard UK policies.
- National Recovery: Offers roadside assistance and transports your vehicle to any UK location if it can’t be fixed on-site.
What types of optional extras may be available with my breakdown insurance?
Different breakdown policy providers may offer different optional extras, so it is important that you always make sure you know what the cover entails. Generally, some or all of the following elements of cover may be available:
- Misfuelling – if you put the wrong type of fuel in your vehicle, this will help remove it.
- Out of fuel cover – this element of protection will get your vehicle moving again, but you will have to pay for the fuel. This can also cover electric vehicles.
- Tyre replacement – your tyre will be replaced or repaired if it is punctured.
- Key replacement – for lost, stolen or damaged keys.
- Battery replacement – in instances where your battery runs out or needs to be replaced. In some instances, the mechanic may not replace the battery but instead, give you a jump start.
- European breakdown cover – for times when you drive on the continent.
- Special vehicle cover – for example, if you tow a trailer or caravan, then you may require special vehicle breakdown cover.
Did you know?
You can tailor your car breakdown insurance policy to include only the cover you need. If you want to save money, then getting a more basic, roadside policy may be a good way to do this. You can also add additional types of protection to your breakdown insurance policy, such as cover for lost car keys or replacement tyres.
Can breakdown insurance cover vans and motorbikes?
Yes, breakdown insurance can cover vans and motorbikes. You can purchase vehicle-specific breakdown cover for these types of vehicles, ensuring that you receive assistance if they break down. When selecting a policy, make sure it’s tailored to the type of vehicle you drive to ensure proper cover.
What exclusions do I need to know when buying breakdown insurance?
When buying breakdown insurance, it’s important to be aware of certain exclusions that may apply. Here are some common exclusions to consider:
- Pre-existing issues: Breakdowns caused by issues that existed before you took out the policy are typically not covered.
- Non-roadworthy vehicles: If your vehicle isn’t roadworthy or hasn’t been regularly maintained, you may not be able to get cover.
- Breakdowns close to home: Some basic policies don’t include cover if you break down within a certain distance from where you live, unless you have home start cover.
- Repeated call-outs for the same issue: If you repeatedly call for assistance for the same problem without getting it fixed, the provider may refuse service.
- Non-mechanical issues: Problems like running out of fuel, losing your keys, or locking them inside the car may not be covered unless you have specific cover for these situations.
- Commercial use: If you’re using your vehicle for commercial purposes, such as delivering goods or driving a taxi, you will typically need a different type of breakdown cover – fleet breakdown insurance.
- Unapproved repairs: Repairs made without the breakdown insurance provider’s approval may not be covered or reimbursed.
- Exceeding weight limits: Vehicles that exceed certain weight or size limits may not be covered under standard policies.
- Misfuelling: Putting the wrong fuel in your vehicle might not be covered unless you have specific cover.
- Off-road breakdowns: Breakdowns that occur off-road, away from public highways, may not be covered.
Can I get breakdown cover with my car insurance?
Breakdown cover is typically not included with standard car insurance policies, as insurers usually treat it as a separate product. However, some comprehensive car insurance policies do include breakdown cover as a standard feature. Be sure to check your policy details to see if your car insurance includes breakdown cover.
How is the cost of breakdown insurance determined?
The cost of breakdown insurance is determined by several factors, including:
- The level of cover you choose (e.g., whether you just want roadside rescue or if you want home start or onward travel).
- Whether you opt for personal or vehicle cover.
- The age of your vehicle.
- How many vehicles you wish to cover under one policy (i.e., if you are looking for fleet breakdown insurance).
- Any additional services you select, such as home start or European cover.
Why compare car breakdown insurance quotes?
Comparing car breakdown insurance quotes is important because it allows you to find the most appropriate cover at the most attractive price. Different providers offer varying levels of service, cover options, and additional extras.
By comparing breakdown insurance, you can ensure that you get the most suitable cover for your needs, avoid overpaying, and secure what you consider is good value for your money.
How to compare breakdown insurance quotes easily
The easiest way to compare quotes for car breakdown insurance is online using our service! Simply complete a few details and cover preferences and the online comparison tools will quickly provide a list of quotes from different car breakdown insurance providers.
Look for key features such as cover levels, additional benefits, and customer reviews to find the most suitable option that meets your needs and budget.
Did you know?
If your car, van, or motorbike breaks down without vehicle breakdown insurance, you can usually still get emergency assistance by signing up there and then for cover – but it will usually cost more due to emergency call-out fees. It’s advisable to have breakdown cover in place beforehand to avoid these higher costs and ensure prompt help when needed.
Money-saving tips for your breakdown insurance
There are potentially several ways to save money on breakdown insurance. Below are some of the best:
- Pay annually: If you pay for your policy for the whole year rather than monthly, this may typically work out more cost-effective.
- Get multiple quotes: Getting multiple breakdown insurance quotes means you get a clear idea of what you should be paying for cover and allows you to select the most appropriate policy at what you consider to be a cost-effective price. Different providers offer varying prices and cover levels, so comparing can save you money.
- Bundle with car insurance: Some insurers offer discounts if you bundle breakdown cover with your car insurance policy.
- Choose the most appropriate level of protection: Only pay for the cover you need. For example, if you rarely drive long distances, you might not need national recovery.
- Check for auto-renewal costs: Auto-renewal prices may not always be the most cost-effective option, so shop around before your policy renews.
- Consider family or multi-car cover: If you have multiple vehicles or drivers in the household, a multi-car or family policy might be more cost-effective.
- Review bank account benefits: Some premium (also known as ‘packaged’) bank accounts include breakdown insurance as standard, so check if you’re already covered before purchasing separately.
If you click the button below, you’ll be able to receive multiple quotes from breakdown insurance specialists for your car, van, or motorbike.
In summary: Buying breakdown insurance
Breakdown cover provides the reassurance of knowing that in the event of your car, motorbike, or van breaking down, help will soon be on its way from a professional.
With different types of cover and levels to choose from, our online breakdown insurance comparison service enables you to select the most suitable fit for your needs and budget.
Have peace of mind that you will never be stranded if your vehicle breaks down.
Get breakdown insurance quotes now
To get breakdown insurance quotes from a panel of specialist insurance providers now, simply click the button below.
Breakdown Cover FAQs
Is breakdown cover included in my car insurance?
Breakdown cover is typically not included in standard car insurance, but it can often be added as an optional extra.
What is the difference between roadside assistance and national recovery?
Roadside assistance offers repairs where the breakdown occurs, while national recovery includes transportation of your vehicle to any location within the UK if it can’t be fixed on the spot.
What is home start cover?
Home start cover helps if your vehicle won’t start at home, getting you moving from your driveway.
Does breakdown cover extend to Europe?
Some policies offer European cover, but this is usually not included as standard and may require an additional premium.
Can I get breakdown cover for my motorbike or van?
Yes, breakdown cover is available for cars, vans, and motorbikes, though you may need a specific policy for each vehicle type.
What happens if I don’t have breakdown cover and my vehicle breaks down?
You can still get emergency assistance, but it will typically cost more due to emergency call-out fees.
How do I know what level of breakdown cover I need?
Consider your driving habits, how often you travel, whether you need home start or European cover, and choose the level that most fits your needs.
Is 24/7 customer support available with breakdown cover?
Most providers offer 24/7 customer support, but it’s good to confirm this with your chosen service.
How do I ensure I’m getting good value for money with my breakdown cover?
Compare the price against the benefits and services offered and consider customer reviews to ensure you’re getting value for your money.
How quickly will help arrive if I break down?
Response times vary by provider and location, but most aim to reach you within 30 to 60 minutes.
Can I add breakdown cover to my existing car insurance policy?
Yes, many insurers allow you to add breakdown cover to your existing motor insurance for an additional fee.
Does breakdown cover include a replacement vehicle?
Some policies offer a replacement vehicle if yours cannot be repaired quickly, but this is often an optional extra and may typically push up the cost of your breakdown insurance cover.
How many call-outs can I make every year?
The number of call-outs you can make each year depends on your breakdown cover policy. Some policies offer unlimited call-outs for a higher premium, while others may limit the number of call-outs allowed. Additionally, some insurers might refuse multiple call-outs for the same issue. Be sure to review the terms and conditions of your specific vehicle breakdown policy for more details.
Is there a mobile app available for managing my breakdown cover?
Many providers offer a mobile app for easy access to services and tracking assistance.
Can I cancel my breakdown cover at any time?
Yes, you can cancel, but whether you receive a refund depends on the provider’s terms. Some may charge a cancellation fee.
Will breakdown cover protect me if I have a mechanical failure?
Yes, breakdown cover typically protects against mechanical failures, but you should check the specifics of your policy to understand what is and isn’t covered.
Is repatriation included if I break down abroad?
Is repatriation included if I break down abroad?
Repatriation of your vehicle to the UK is often included with European cover but should be confirmed with your provider.
Is battery replacement included in breakdown cover?
Some policies include or offer battery replacement as an additional service.
Does breakdown insurance cover tyre replacement?
Tyre replacement may be included in some policies or available as an optional add-on.
Are there any restrictions on the age or condition of my vehicle?
Yes, some policies may have restrictions on older vehicles or those in poor condition.
What is onward travel cover?
Onward travel cover provides options like car hire, accommodation, or public transport if your vehicle can’t be repaired quickly.
What cover levels are available with breakdown insurance?
You can choose from basic roadside assistance, national recovery, or European cover, depending on your needs.
What’s the difference between personal cover and vehicle cover?
Personal cover protects you in any vehicle you drive, while vehicle cover is specific to a particular vehicle.