It’s often said that the one time you don’t have breakdown cover is the one time your car decides to let you down.
No matter how well maintained your vehicle is, breakdowns can happen unexpectedly. Having the right breakdown cover in place can provide valuable peace of mind and help you get back on the road as quickly as possible.
In this guide, we’ll explain the different types of breakdown cover available and help you decide which option may be right for you.
Types of Breakdown Cover
There are two main types of breakdown cover available:
Vehicle Cover
Vehicle cover protects a specific vehicle, regardless of who is driving it.
If the vehicle breaks down and cannot be repaired at the roadside, recovery services can arrange for it to be transported elsewhere.
Depending on your policy, this may include:
- Local recovery, which typically covers transportation to a nearby garage.
- National recovery, which allows your vehicle to be transported to a destination of your choice anywhere within the UK.
Vehicle cover is often the most cost-effective option if you only drive one car.
Personal Cover
Personal cover protects you rather than a specific vehicle.
This means you’re covered whether you’re driving your own car, travelling as a passenger, or even using someone else’s vehicle.
Personal cover can be particularly useful if:
- You regularly drive multiple vehicles.
- There are several cars in your household.
- You frequently travel as a passenger.
Although personal cover can sometimes cost slightly more than vehicle cover, it offers greater flexibility.
How Does Breakdown Cover Work?
The exact level of assistance depends on your chosen policy.
In most cases, if your vehicle breaks down, you’ll contact your breakdown provider using a dedicated emergency number. They will then arrange for an engineer or recovery operator to attend.
If the issue can be fixed at the roadside, you’ll usually be able to continue your journey immediately.
If repairs aren’t possible, the vehicle may be recovered to a garage or another agreed location.
Optional Extras
Many providers also offer additional benefits, including:
- Onward travel assistance
- Home start cover
- European breakdown cover
- Courtesy vehicle provision
- Overnight accommodation
These extras can be valuable depending on how and where you drive.
Does Car Insurance Include Breakdown Cover?
In most cases, no.
Car insurance and breakdown cover are separate products.
- Car insurance helps cover costs associated with accidents, theft and damage.
- Breakdown cover provides assistance if your vehicle suffers a mechanical or electrical failure.
Some insurers offer breakdown cover as an optional add-on, so it’s worth checking your policy documents before purchasing separate cover.
Where Can You Get Breakdown Cover?
Breakdown cover is widely available from several different sources, including:
Insurance Companies
Many insurers offer breakdown cover as part of their insurance packages or as an optional extra.
Banks
Some premium current accounts include breakdown cover as one of their account benefits.
Vehicle Manufacturers
Many new vehicles include complimentary breakdown cover for a fixed period, often ranging from one to three years.
Pay and Claim Policies
Some providers operate on a pay-and-claim basis. This means you arrange and pay for recovery yourself before reclaiming eligible costs from your provider.
What Type of Breakdown Cover Do You Need?
Choosing the right policy depends on your individual circumstances.
When comparing breakdown cover, consider:
- The age and condition of your vehicle
- How often you drive
- The distances you typically travel
- Whether multiple people drive the vehicle
- Whether you regularly drive other vehicles
- Whether you require UK-only or European cover
You should also check:
- Annual policy costs
- Excess charges
- Callout limits
- Recovery distances
- Included extras
Some policies limit the number of callouts you can make each year, while others provide unlimited assistance.
Explore More Motoring Advice
Visit our maintenance guidance hub for practical guides covering vehicle ownership, maintenance, insurance, breakdowns and everyday driving tips.
Keeping Your Vehicle Reliable
While breakdown cover provides valuable protection, regular maintenance remains the best way to reduce the likelihood of a breakdown.
Checking your tyres, battery, oil levels and coolant regularly can help identify problems before they become expensive repairs.
If you’re concerned about engine issues, you may find our guide on White Smoke From Your Exhaust useful.
For additional vehicle security advice, take a look at How to Protect Your Car From Theft.
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