When your car breaks down, the last thing you want is to be left stranded without any help. Breakdown insurance is designed to get you back on the road as quickly as possible, but with so many options available, how do you know which one is right for you? In this ultimate guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about choosing the right breakdown insurance, so you can drive with confidence knowing you’re covered when things go wrong.
What is breakdown insurance?
First, it’s important to understand what breakdown insurance is and why you need it. At its core, breakdown insurance provides assistance if your car breaks down on the road. This could include services like roadside assistance, towing, and help with basic repairs. Some policies also cover additional services such as fuel delivery, helping with a flat tyre, or even providing a replacement vehicle or accommodation if your car needs extensive repairs. Without breakdown cover, you’d be left to figure out how to deal with a breakdown and could face high out-of-pocket expenses for recovery, repairs, and alternative transport.
What level of cover do you need?
Breakdown insurance typically comes in three main levels: roadside assistance, home start, and comprehensive cover.
Roadside Assistance is the most basic level of breakdown cover and is usually enough if you don’t travel far from home. Roadside assistance means that if your car breaks down, help will be sent to the location to either fix the problem or tow your vehicle to a nearby garage. This type of cover is ideal for short journeys and local driving.
Home Start covers if your car breaks down at home, this cover extends to include assistance right on your doorstep. If you’ve had problems with your car starting at home in the past, this is a good option to consider. It offers a little more peace of mind if you’re worried about being stuck in your driveway, unable to get your car going.
Comprehensive Breakdown Cover is the most comprehensive option, covering you for breakdowns at home, roadside assistance, and nationwide recovery. With comprehensive cover, you also often get access to additional services such as a hire car, accommodation, or onward travel arrangements if your car can’t be repaired quickly. If you travel long distances or frequently take long road trips, this level of cover ensures that you’re fully protected no matter where you are.
Additional services to consider
Once you’ve decided which level of coverage you need, think about whether you want additional services like vehicle recovery, hire cars, or cover for multi-car households. If your car breaks down while you’re on a long journey or far from home, vehicle recovery ensures that your car is towed to a garage or back home, and some policies even include a hire car so you can continue with your plans while your car is being repaired. Additionally, if you have multiple cars in your household, you might want to look for policies that offer multi-vehicle discounts or cover for all the cars you own under one plan.
Consider your car’s age and condition
Another key consideration is the age and condition of your car. Older cars or cars with a history of mechanical issues may be more likely to break down, so you might want to opt for more comprehensive breakdown insurance that covers repairs or recovery. Be sure to check the exclusions in the terms and conditions, as many policies don’t cover breakdowns caused by wear and tear or lack of regular maintenance. It’s essential to ensure your car is in good working order and that the breakdown cover you choose aligns with your car’s age and condition.
Review policy exclusions
Don’t forget to review the exclusions and terms of service in the fine print of any breakdown policy. While breakdown insurance covers a wide range of situations, it often comes with exclusions. For example, if your breakdown is due to poor maintenance or negligence (such as driving with worn-out tires), it may not be covered. Always check that the policy includes the services you need and that you’re comfortable with the exclusions listed.
Compare breakdown cover prices
Lastly, compare prices to ensure you’re getting the best value for your needs. Breakdown insurance can vary in cost, depending on the level of cover, the services included, and the insurer you choose. It’s important to balance the cost with the level of protection offered. Don’t just go for the cheapest option—consider what’s included and how much support you’ll receive in the event of a breakdown.
In conclusion, choosing the right breakdown insurance comes down to understanding your needs, the level of coverage you require, and what’s included in the policy. Whether you need just roadside assistance for short trips or comprehensive cover for long journeys, there’s a policy out there for you. MoneySpider makes it easy to compare breakdown insurance policies, helping you find the right cover at the best price. Start your search today and drive with confidence, knowing you’re protected when the unexpected happens.
