Do You Need a Car Breakdown Cover?

Imagine you're on your way to an important meeting, and suddenly, your car stalls on a busy highway. The frustration, anxiety, and inconvenience can be overwhelming. You start looking online for any auto shop open around the area; some even demand a down payment before coming. The mechanic takes forever to get there, and now you have to cancel your meeting.

However, this won't happen if you have a breakdown cover. All you need to do is notify the provider, and they will send help immediately. Depending on the cover, they might even provide transportation to your destination if the car cannot be fixed immediately. Are you still wondering if you need a breakdown cover? Read on to find out.

What is a car breakdown cover?

A breakdown cover is a service that provides help when your vehicle breaks down. This can include various services, from simple roadside repairs like a puncture to towing your car to a garage if it cannot be fixed on the spot.

These policies vary significantly depending on the provider and the type of cover. For instance, basic breakdown covers only provide a mechanic who will fix your car where it is. If the mechanic cannot repair it, they will provide towing service to the nearest auto shop. However, you will pay for the parts used and the auto shop bill.

Nevertheless, if you have a premium package, in addition to the services provided in the basic package, you will also get a ride to your destination. Keep in mind that most covers have a call-out limit on how many times you can use the service per year.

Types of car breakdown cover

There are several types of breakdown covers to choose from. Whether you just need basic assistance in the event of an emergency or comprehensive onward travel cover to help you continue with your journey, there's a cover tailored to your needs. Here are the four main types of breakdown cover.

Roadside assistance

Roadside assistance is the most basic breakdown cover. As the name suggests, it helps if your car breaks down while on the road. However, this cover will not help if the breakdown occurs at home or near home. The distance will differ between providers, but for most providers, you must be more than a quarter of a mile away from your home.

The cover will provide a mechanic to fix your car. If the vehicle cannot be fixed, they'll tow it to the nearest auto shop chosen by your insurer. Keep in mind that the cost of the parts used will be on you, and they won't provide alternative transportation if the car is not fixed immediately.

Home start breakdown cover

A home start breakdown cover, also known as at-home recovery, covers you if your car breaks down at your home address. When you have a home start breakdown cover, a mechanic will come to fix your car if it fails to start when you are home. If they are unable to fix it, it will be towed to the nearest garage authorized by your insurer. It also covers breakdowns close to home, but the exact distance varies between providers.

Vehicle recovery breakdown cover

The vehicle recovery breakdown cover provides everything in a basic road assistance package. However, if the vehicle cannot be repaired at the roadside, it will be towed to a nearby garage or your chosen destination. The main difference is that with this package, you decide where the vehicle will be towed. It can even be to your home garage, even if you are across the country.

Onward travel breakdown cover

With an onward travel breakdown cover, a mechanic will be sent to fix your car. If they need to tow the vehicle to be fixed in a garage, they will provide you with means to get to your destination. This can be through a car hire, or they can cover your public transport fee.

Apart from the above covers, you can also take a personal or vehicle breakdown cover.

Personal vs. vehicle breakdown cover

A personal breakdown package covers you in whatever car you are traveling in, while a vehicle breakdown package covers your car regardless of the driver. A personal breakdown cover is suitable for people who use different vehicles, whether borrowed or hired. A car breakdown cover is ideal if multiple people use your car.

Benefits of a breakdown cover

• Cost savings: The costs of a tow truck, emergency repairs, or even alternative transport are usually high. A breakdown cover will save you a lot of money in case you get a breakdown.
• Time and convenience: A breakdown can disrupt your day, causing delays and stress. However, with a breakdown cover, you can get back on the road faster, as professional assistance is just a phone call away. This service can also save you the hassle of finding a reliable mechanic or tow service in an unfamiliar area.
• Peace of mind: One of the most significant benefits of a breakdown cover is the reassurance it provides. Knowing you're protected in case of a breakdown allows you to drive confidently, whether on a short journey or a long road trip.
• National-wide coverage: Breakdown cover typically provides global assistance, whether you are close to your home or on a cross-country road trip, reducing the stress of unfamiliar regions.
• 24/7 assistance: A breakdown usually operates around the clock, meaning help is available no matter the time or location.

Drawbacks of breakdown cover

Breakdown cover offers numerous benefits, but it's important to consider potential drawbacks. Here are the two main disadvantages of a breakdown cover.

• With a standard breakdown cover, you will still incur the costs of buying replacement parts and covering your transport if the vehicle is not fixed.
• Call-out limits: Most covers limit the number of times you can get the service. If you exceed this limit, you will have to pay out of pocket.

Who needs a breakdown cover?

Unlike auto insurance, drivers don't need breakdown coverage since it is not a legal requirement. However, you can opt to buy a breakdown cover, even if it is just road assistance, as it can make a breakdown a less stressful and inexpensive experience. Here are some of the people who may need a breakdown cover.

• Regular commuters: When you spend more time on the road, you have more chances of experiencing mechanical issues. A breakdown cover can give you peace of mind and ensure you are not stranded if you eventually get a breakdown.
• Owners of older vehicles: Older vehicles usually experience more mechanical issues than new ones. A car that is out of warranty and several years old may need a breakdown cover.
• Families and long-distance travelers: Onward breakdown cover can be beneficial if you get a breakdown when traveling with kids. Unlike adults, children cannot wait several hours until the car is fixed.

When you might not need a breakdown cover

• You have a new vehicle. The manufacturer's warranties have similar benefits.
• You don't drive frequently.
• You have a comprehensive insurance policy that has similar benefits.
• You only travel locally.

How to choose the right car breakdown cover

Ensuring you can get back on the road swiftly when you have a breakdown is every driver's dream. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a breakdown cover.

Assess your needs

Think about your driving habits before settling on a breakdown cover. How often do you drive? Do you frequently travel far from home? Do you travel with kids? What's the age and reliability of your car?

For instance, an onward travel breakdown cover is ideal if you regularly travel with kids. You should also review your existing policies, including travel insurance, as some may include breakdown cover as an add-on.

Compare providers

Don't settle for the first provider when shopping for a breakdown cover. Get quotes from several providers to see which offers more value at a fair price. Furthermore, look for companies with positive customer reviews and a history of reliable customer service.

Read the fine print

Don't be quick to sign the contract. Carefully review the terms and conditions of any policy you're considering. Look for exclusions, such as limits on the number of call-outs per year, and understand what services are included in your plan.

Do you really need a car breakdown cover?

Although a car breakdown cover is not mandatory, it can be beneficial if you get a breakdown. You don't have to worry about being stranded. All you have to do is call your provider, and help will arrive in no time. However, a breakdown cover may not be necessary if your car is under the manufacturer's warranty or you have a comprehensive insurance policy.

Final thought

Car breakdowns don't happen regularly, especially if you service your car as required. However, they can be quite stressful when they do. They can delay you from getting to your destination on time. Fortunately, the right car breakdown cover can quickly solve the issue. The provider will send you a mechanic to fix the car where you are and tow the vehicle if needed.