Breakdown cover from just £5 a month

- 4/5 call-outs fixed at roadside
- No hidden costs
- 5 star Defaqto rated
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In a nutshell, yes. You never know what could happen out on the roads, and if your car suddenly packs it in, you don’t want to be stuck on the roadside. It’s also particularly relevant for you if you’re driving an older vehicle, as those are more likely to have mechanical faults (but note that cover is rarely offered to cars older than 15).
Having breakdown cover means that you have someone you can call for help, either by fixing your car, helping you get to a garage or helping you back home.
You may find that breakdown cover is already written into your car insurance policy, so first check your policy documents to make sure you’re not spending unnecessarily.
There is nothing worse than needing a tow and realising your breakdown policy doesn’t cover you for it. There are different types of breakdown cover out there so make sure you understand what you’re signing up to.
There are typically five types of breakdown cover available:
You can either take out breakdown cover for a vehicle or a person. Prices for personal breakdown cover tend to be higher, but if you’re someone who drives more than one car, then it may suit your needs.
Some companies also offer family breakdown policies, which can cover your entire family in case any of them break down on a journey.
There are a few tips and trick to think about before you sign the dotted line. We want you to get the best price for your cover so check out our handy hints below:
This can mean you have to fork out on overnight accommodation, a hire car or public transport to continue your journey.
Some exclusions might also relate to breaking down with animals in the vehicle or on private land.
Another option is to call Green Flag, who offers a breakdown service, on 0800 400 600; or the AA, who offer instant cover, on 0800 88 77 66. This will involve paying an emergency call-out fee, which can be expensive, but might still be more economical than the alternatives.
Note that your insurance company might have policy exclusions relating to using your van for business purposes, so, if this is relevant to you, double-check the small print.
Policies that cover you for caravans, trailers, and similar vehicles are available. You can find out more information in our guide to caravan insurance.
That said, classic car breakdown cover is available, but might require some shopping around to find a good deal.
Things to consider when you shop around include:
Remember that cheapest isn’t always best, so make sure to read the policy details so that you’re not left out of pocket if your car breaks down.
Ronny Lavie is a deputy editor at Finder, specialising in insurance content. She has almost a decade of experience writing about financial topics, including five months spent as the interim managing editor for the Fintech Times newspaper. Ronny has a Master of Arts in Creative Writing from London Middlesex University and is currently working on her first book.
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