Compare Car Breakdown Insurance

What is Car Breakdown Insurance?

Here’s what you need to know about breakdown insurance in the UK:   

• Breakdown insurance is a type of coverage that assists in the event of a vehicle breakdown. This can include car breakdown insurance but can also cover other vehicles. Issues such as a flat tyre, engine failure, or running out of fuel often result in breakdowns.   
• Breakdown insurance typically includes services like towing, jump-starting, and tyre changes.   
• You can purchase Breakdown Insurance as an add-on to your auto insurance policy or as a standalone product. 
• Breakdown insurance aims to help drivers get back on the road as quickly as possible and minimise the inconvenience and expenses associated with a breakdown.   

What Types of Breakdown Covers are there? 

When it comes to breakdown cover, there are several types available to suit different needs and budgets. Here’s an overview of the five main types of breakdown cover you can consider:   

1. Roadside Assistance   

This is the most basic level of breakdown cover. It typically includes:   

• Help if your vehicle breaks down at least a quarter of a mile from your home.   
• If your car cannot be fixed on the spot, you can make basic repairs at the roadside or have it towed to a nearby garage.   

1. Vehicle Recovery   

Building on roadside assistance, vehicle recovery offers more extensive options, such as:   

• It is towing your vehicle to any location within the country if it cannot be repaired at the roadside.   
• Transportation for you and your passengers to a chosen destination.   

1. Home-Start   

Also known as “home assistance,” this type of cover is ideal if your car is prone to problems when starting at home. It includes:   

• Assistance if your vehicle won’t begin to be parked at or near your home.   
• It tows your vehicle to any location within the country if you cannot repair it at the roadside. 

1. Onward Travel   

Onward travel cover ensures you and your journey aren’t disrupted by a breakdown. This cover might include:   

• A replacement vehicle to continue your journey.   
• Overnight accommodation if your car needs extensive repairs.   
• Costs of public transport to reach your destination.   

1. European Cover   

European breakdown cover is ideal for those who frequently travel abroad on international trips. This cover typically includes:   

• Roadside assistance and recovery across various European countries.   
• Additional benefits include repatriating your vehicle to the UK if it cannot be repaired abroad.   

Choosing the correct breakdown cover type depends on your needs, driving habits, and budget. Compare different policies with Insuro to ensure you get the best coverage.   

Is Car Breakdown Insurance Covered Within General Car Insurance in the UK?

It depends on the specific car insurance policy.    

Some car insurance policies include breakdown cover as a standard or optional benefit, while others do not. If you are still determining whether your car insurance policy includes breakdown coverage, it’s best to check with your insurance provider or read the policy documents carefully.   

Sometimes, you can add breakdown coverage to your car insurance policy for an additional premium. Alternatively, you can purchase a separate breakdown insurance policy from a different provider.   

Why Buy Car Breakdown Insurance?   

There are many reasons why car breakdown insurance is helpful to have. Here are our top three:   

1. Immediate Assistance When You Need It Most   

• Car breakdown insurance provides immediate support to stranded drivers when their vehicles fail. Professional assistance can get you back on the road quickly, helping you and your vehicle safely arrive at your chosen destination.   

2. Avoid Expensive Towing Fees   

• Without breakdown insurance, you might face hefty fees from towing companies if your car breaks down and requires transport to a garage. Breakdown insurance typically covers these costs, saving you from unexpected expenses that can add up quickly. This financial protection means you won’t have to worry about the high towing or roadside repairs costs.   

3. Comprehensive Coverage Options   

• Breakdown insurance policies offer a range of coverage options tailored to different needs and budgets.   
• From essential roadside assistance to comprehensive plans that include onward travel, home start, and even European coverage, you can select a policy that best fits your driving habits and requirements. This flexibility helps you stay protected, no matter where or how you drive.   

What Should Be Considered with Breakdown Insurance?   

When considering breakdown insurance, there are several factors to keep in mind:   

• Coverage: Ensure you understand the policy’s coverage, including the types of breakdowns, locations, and circumstances.
• Exclusions: Familiarise yourself with the policy’s exclusions, such as pre-existing mechanical issues or wear and tear.   
• Roadside Assistance: Find out what roadside assistance is provided, such as towing, jump-starting, or fuel delivery.   
• Response time: Check the estimated response time for assistance in case of a breakdown.   
• Cost: Compare the policy’s price with other breakdown insurance providers and consider the potential savings against the cost of not having coverage.   
• Reputation: Consider the importance of the provider and read customer reviews to see what others have experienced with the service.   
• Claims process: Ensure you understand the process and what you must do in case of a breakdown.

It is essential to carefully consider these factors and weigh the benefits against the cost to decide whether breakdown insurance is right for you, alongside your car insurance.   

What are the Most Common Reasons for Car Breakdowns? 

Understanding the common reasons for car breakdowns can help you prepare and take preventative measures.

Here are some of the most frequent causes of vehicle issues on UK roads:   

• Battery Issues: Batteries can fail due to age, poor maintenance, or leaving lights on, leading to insufficient charge to start the engine.   
• Tyre Damage or Punctures: Tyres can become damaged or punctured for various reasons, such as road debris, poor road conditions, or wear and tear, causing flat tyres or blowouts.   
• Alternator Faults: The alternator charges the battery while the car is running, and faults can lead to battery drain and electrical component failures.   
• Starter Motor Problems: The starter motor initiates engine ignition, and faults in this component can prevent the engine from starting.   
• Clutch Issues: The clutch engages and disengages the gearbox from the engine, and wear or damage can lead to gear engagement problems.   
• Engine Overheating: Overheating can occur from coolant leaks, radiator problems, or water pump failures, risking severe engine damage.   
• Fuel Problems: Incorrect fuel, clogged filters, or fuel pump issues can impede engine performance and prevent starting.   
• Lost Keys: Misplaced or damaged keys can prevent vehicle or ignition system access.   
• Gearbox Issues: Problems with the gearbox can lead to difficulty changing gears or complete transmission failure.   
• Electrical Faults: Wiring issues, faulty sensors, or electronic control unit (ECU) problems can affect various vehicle functions.   

Please note: SEOPA provide quotes on insuro.co.uk for breakdown insurance. The information contained within this page is for editorial purposes, and any content included on this website is not intended to be financial advice. ntent included on this website is not intended to be financial advice.  

Disclaimer:

You could pay from £15.49 per year*
*Based on quote data provided by Seopa Ltd during May 2025. This quote was provided to the majority of customers. The quote price you could achieve is dependent on your individual circumstances.