The RAC is one of the UK’s best-known breakdown providers, helping millions of motorists with roadside assistance, recovery services, and vehicle support every year.
But just how long has the RAC been around, and how did it become such a familiar name on British roads?
Where It All Began
The RAC, originally known as the Royal Automobile Club, was founded in 1897 by Frederick Richard Simms. With well over a century of motoring history behind it, the organisation has grown alongside the British car industry itself.
Today, the RAC has more than eight million members across the UK and remains one of the country’s largest motoring organisations.
From its earliest days, the RAC focused on supporting motorists and improving the driving experience. As cars became more common on UK roads, the organisation expanded its services to include roadside recovery, technical support, and vehicle inspections.
RAC Breakdown Services
The RAC now attends millions of breakdowns each year, offering roadside assistance, at-home cover, vehicle recovery, and onward travel support.
Depending on the level of breakdown cover selected, drivers may receive benefits such as:
- Unlimited callouts
- Roadside repairs
- Nationwide recovery
- Hire car assistance
- European cover
- At-home breakdown support
The RAC also provides vehicle history checks, helping buyers identify whether a used car has been stolen, written off, or still has outstanding finance attached.
More Than Just Breakdown Cover
Over the years, the RAC has expanded beyond traditional roadside assistance.
The company now offers a range of motoring services including:
- Vehicle inspections
- Insurance products
- Legal support
- Traffic and travel updates
- Route planning tools
- Telematics and vehicle diagnostics
Modern technology has also enabled the RAC to develop remote diagnostic tools that can help identify faults before patrols even arrive at a breakdown scene.
Team RAC and British Touring Cars
In 2006, the RAC partnered with West Surrey Racing to create Team RAC in the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC).
The bright orange RAC-branded touring cars quickly became recognisable to motorsport fans and achieved several championship successes during their time in the series.
Supporting UK Motorists
The RAC has also been involved in campaigns designed to support drivers and improve transparency in the motoring industry.
One example is its Fuel Watch campaign, launched in 2015, which aimed to encourage fairer fuel pricing and improve transparency around wholesale fuel costs.
And if learning about the RAC’s long history has you thinking about keeping your own vehicle in top condition, our maintenance guidance hub covers the essential checks every driver should know.
Final Thoughts
After more than 125 years, the RAC remains one of the UK’s most recognised motoring organisations. From traditional roadside recovery to advanced vehicle diagnostics and driver support services, it has continued to evolve alongside changing technology and driver needs.
If you’re thinking about changing your vehicle, you may also find these guides useful:
- Read our guide on How to Avoid a Winter Breakdown
- Check out our article on Cold Weather Car Problems that Everyone Has Experienced
And if it’s time to move on from your current car, Jamjar.com makes valuing your car simple. Compare offers from trusted UK buyers, get a free online valuation, and sell your car quickly without the hassle.