Breakdown Cover Explained

12-04-2023

As a driver, you never know when your car might break down. Whether it's a flat tire, a dead battery, or an engine failure, it's always best to be prepared. That's where breakdown cover comes in. In this article, we'll discuss what breakdown cover is, why you should have it, and what it includes.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• What Is Breakdown Cover?
• Why You Should Have Breakdown Cover
• What Does Breakdown Cover Include?
• How to Choose the Right Breakdown Cover
• How to Use Breakdown Cover
• Tips for Maintaining Your Vehicle
• Frequently Asked Questions
  • What is the difference between breakdown cover and car insurance?
  • Does breakdown cover include roadside assistance?
  • Can I get breakdown cover for my motorcycle?
  • Is breakdown cover valid in Europe?
  • Can I get breakdown cover if my car is over 10 years old?

What Is Breakdown Cover?

Breakdown cover is a type of insurance that provides assistance when your vehicle breaks down. It can be purchased as a standalone policy or added on as an optional extra to your car insurance policy.

When you have breakdown cover, you can call your provider for help if your car won't start, you have a flat tyre, your battery dies, or any other type of mechanical problem that prevents you from driving. The provider will send a technician to your location to try to fix the problem on the spot, or tow your car to a nearby garage if necessary.

Having breakdown cover can be a lifesaver if you're stranded on the side of the road, especially if you're far from home or in an unfamiliar area. It can also save you money, as the cost of a tow or a repair can be expensive without coverage.

Different breakdown cover policies offer different levels of coverage. Basic policies may only cover roadside assistance, while more comprehensive policies may include onward travel, which can cover the cost of alternative transportation or accommodation if your car can't be fixed on the spot. Some policies also offer European cover, which provides assistance if your car breaks down while you're driving in Europe.

Breakdown cover can be purchased from a variety of providers, including the AA, RAC, and Green Flag. When choosing a policy, it's important to consider the level of coverage you need and your budget. It's also important to read the terms and conditions carefully to understand what is and isn't covered.

Why You Should Have Breakdown Cover

Having breakdown cover provides peace of mind for drivers. If your car breaks down, you won't be left stranded on the side of the road. Breakdown cover can also save you money in the long run. Without breakdown cover, you may have to pay out of pocket for towing and repairs, which can be expensive.

What Does Breakdown Cover Include?

Breakdown cover typically includes the following services:

• Roadside assistance: If your car breaks down while you're driving, a breakdown cover provider will send someone to help you. They'll try to fix the problem on the spot, and if they can't, they'll tow your car to a nearby garage.
• Home start: If your car won't start when you're at home, a breakdown cover provider will send someone to help you. They'll try to fix the problem on the spot, and if they can't, they'll tow your car to a nearby garage.
• Recovery: If your car can't be fixed on the spot, a breakdown cover provider will tow it to a garage for repairs.
• Onward travel: If your car can't be fixed on the spot and you need to get somewhere, a breakdown cover provider may offer alternative transportation, such as a rental car or public transportation.
• European cover: If you're driving in Europe and your car breaks down, a breakdown cover provider will provide assistance.

It's important to note that the exact services included in a breakdown cover policy can vary depending on the provider and the level of coverage you choose.

How to Choose the Right Breakdown Cover

When choosing a breakdown cover policy, consider the level of coverage you need and your budget. It's also important to read the terms and conditions carefully to understand exactly what's covered.

How to Use Breakdown Cover

If your car breaks down, follow these steps to use your breakdown cover:

1. Call your breakdown cover provider. You'll need to provide your location and a description of the problem.
2. Wait for assistance to arrive. If you're on a motorway or busy road, stay in your car with your seatbelt on until help arrives.
3. Explain the problem to the technician. They'll try to fix the problem on the spot, but if they can't, they'll tow your car to a nearby garage.
4. If your car needs to be towed, make sure you know where it's being taken and how to contact the garage.
5. If your breakdown cover includes onward travel, make arrangements for alternative transportation if necessary.

Tips for Maintaining Your Vehicle

While breakdown cover can provide assistance when your car breaks down, it's always best to prevent breakdowns from happening in the first place. Here are some tips for maintaining your vehicle:

• Get regular oil changes and tune-ups.
• Check your tyre pressure regularly.
• Keep your gas tank at least a quarter full.
• Replace worn-out tyres and brake pads promptly.
• Listen for unusual noises or vibrations and have them checked out.

By taking care of your vehicle, you can reduce the risk of breakdowns and ensure that you're not left stranded on the side of the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between breakdown cover and car insurance?

Car insurance covers damages to your vehicle and liability in case of an accident, while breakdown cover provides assistance when your car breaks down.

Does breakdown cover include roadside assistance?

Breakdown cover typically includes roadside assistance.

Can I get breakdown cover for my motorcycle?

There are many breakdown cover providers offering coverage for motorcycles.

Is breakdown cover valid in Europe?

Many breakdown cover policies include European cover, but it's important to check the terms and conditions of your policy to make sure.

Can I get breakdown cover if my car is over 10 years old?

Many breakdown cover providers offer coverage for older vehicles, but it's important to check the terms and conditions of your policy to make sure.

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