Protection Insurance
:: Breakdown Cover
Guide
Breakdown Cover Guide
With so many different types of Breakdown Recovery policies on
offer, it can be difficult knowing which is the right one for
you to choose.
The following Frequently Asked Questions should answer any
queries you have, meaning you can make an educated decision
when choosing a policy. While the following information is general,
you should make sure you check out the individual policy terms
and conditions, as these can vary from company to company.
Breakdown Insurance FAQs
What are the different levels of cover?
Generally, there are four different levels of cover available.
‘Roadside’ or ‘Roadside Assistance’ policies will cover you
only if your car breaks down when you are out on the road and
at least 0.5-1 mile away from your home (companies vary). A
mechanic will try and fix the problem at the roadside and if
they are unable to, they will tow you to the nearest garage
or back to your home (whatever is nearer), within a set radius.
The next level - normally called ‘Roadside & Relay’, ‘Roadside
& Recovery’ or similar - will cover you at the roadside
and, if your vehicle can not be repaired, you and up to a pre-defined
amount of passengers, will be transported to your home or any
other single UK mainland destination.
The third level - look out for the words ‘At Home’ or ‘Home
Start’ - provides the cover as described above, plus a mechanic
will come out to your home if your vehicle breaks down.
Comprehensive policies offer all of the above, plus additional
benefits – for example, a replacement car; overnight accommodation
or onward travel arrangements if local repair is not possible
within a reasonable time.
How much will it cost?
This depends on the provider and the level of cover offered
but average prices range from circa £25-£45 for
a basic personal membership. For comprehensive cover, single
membership costs around £150, with Family Cover costing
circa £200.
It’s important that when comparing prices you read the small
print, and look at each policy on a like-for-like basis carefully.
Use our directory of providers to compare prices and terms and
conditions.
What is European Cover?
European Cover – basically cover on the continent - is offered
by some of the larger companies, and you will need to pay an
additional premium for this cover. It’s worth knowing that if
you travel abroad and your vehicle breaks down, you should be
aware that recovering a car from the South of France to London
could cost up to £1,000.
What is the difference between ‘personal’ cover and
‘vehicle-based’ cover?
Some of the larger providers offer this option of insuring the
car or the driver.
Vehicle-based Membership covers the named vehicle regardless
of who is driving. It normally costs less than personal membership.
Personal cover will cover you, no matter what car you are in
and whether you are the driver or the passenger.
If I take out ‘single’ cover does that mean my partner
is not covered, even if we drive the same vehicle?
Yes, the policy would cover just you, and not the vehicle. To
cover you and your partner (who has to live at the same address),
you would need a Joint membership.
A brief explanation of terms follow:
“Single” covers you as the driver or passenger in any vehicle.
“Joint” will cover you and another person, living at the same
address.
“Family” offers cover for family members in the same household
(up to a pre-defined limit)
How do I know which policy is right for me?
Decide what type of cover you need, then look for policies that
meet those requirements while offering the best deal.
Consider whether you want a company with an established reputation
or whether you do not mind trying an unfamiliar one. For example,
some of the lower-priced providers will not have their own team
of qualified, endorsed mechanics (unlike the AA or RAC) and
tender out their business to local garages. Consider what would
make you feel more comfortable in the event of your vehicle
breaking down.
Look at your own circumstances – if you drive alone a lot,
for example, you may want the security of knowing you’ll reach
your destination if your vehicle breaks down. In this instance,
you would opt for a “Rescue, Recovery and Onward Travel” type
policy.
A person who is quite knowledgeable on cars and does not travel
very far in their vehicle may just need a “Rescue” only policy.
And a family who go on driving holidays in the UK and abroad
may favour a comprehensive “Rescue, Recovery, At Home, Onward
Travel and European” type-combination.
What do I need to consider?
Be fully aware of the type and level of cover you want
and ensure the policy fully matches your requirements. Some
key considerations are:
