What are the benefits of motor breakdown insurance?

Motor breakdowns can be a frustrating and unexpected ordeal for any driver. Whether you’re stranded on a quiet country road or stuck in the middle of a bustling city, a breakdown can disrupt your plans and cause unnecessary stress.

This is where motor breakdown insurance could help you.

Motor breakdown insurance is a valuable safety net that provides peace of mind as well as benefits for motorists. In this article, we will delve into what motor breakdown insurance is, its benefits, where to get it, and why every UK driver should consider having it.

In this article we’ll cover:

• What is motor breakdown insurance?
• What are the benefits of motor breakdown insurance?
• When are breakdowns most likely to occur? 
• Choosing the right motor breakdown insurance 

What is motor breakdown insurance? 

Motor breakdown insurance, also known simply as breakdown cover, is a type of insurance policy that provides assistance to drivers when their vehicles break down unexpectedly.  

This coverage typically includes services such as roadside assistance, vehicle recovery and repair, to help ensure that you’re not left stranded in the event of a breakdown. 

This type of policy is designed to minimise the inconvenience and financial burden associated with unexpected vehicle issues. 

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What are the benefits of motor breakdown insurance? 

Imagine you’re on a long drive and your car breaks down unexpectedly. That’s when your breakdown could come in useful.  

Exactly what your motor breakdown insurance covers will depend on the provider you’ve chosen, as all policies differ slightly.   

However, here’s an idea of the types of benefits you might appreciate when purchasing this type of policy: 

Peace of mind 

Perhaps the most significant benefit of motor breakdown insurance is the peace of mind it can offer.  

Knowing that you have professional assistance at your disposal in case of a breakdown can alleviate some stress and give you peace of mind for your journey. 

Roadside assistance 

If your vehicle breaks down, you’ll have access to a trained technician who will assess the issue and attempt to repair your vehicle. This service can save you from both the hassle and stress of finding a reputable technician and since you’ve already paid the premium, potentially costly repair bills. 

Vehicle recovery 

If your vehicle cannot be repaired at the roadside, breakdown cover typically includes vehicle recovery services.  

In this instance, your car will usually be towed to a nearby garage for repairs and transportation home (within a certain radius) if transport to a nearby garage isn’t possible.  

Alternative transportation 

In some cases, motor breakdown insurance may provide alternative transportation options such as a courtesy car or reimbursement for public transportation costs while your vehicle is being repaired. This ensures that your daily life is minimally disrupted. 

Home start 

Many policies offer a home start option for an additional cost. This means that assistance is available even if your vehicle breaks down at your residence.  

This is particularly useful for those who rely on their cars for commuting to work. 

National and European coverage 

Depending on the level of cover you choose, motor breakdown insurance can provide assistance not only within the UK but also in Europe, making it an excellent choice for those who frequently travel abroad. 

Cost savings 

Without breakdown cover, the cost of towing and repair services can be substantial, sometimes up to £150 (Household Quotes, 2023). Motor breakdown insurance can help you save money in the long run by covering these expenses. 

For example, a Motor Breakdown policy from Save More Money starts at £24.88, meaning just one claim could save you over £120. 

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When are breakdowns most likely to occur? 

Understanding when breakdowns are most likely to occur can help drivers prepare and take preventative measures, meaning, that even though it’s impossible to completely eradicate the risk of breakdowns, you’re less likely to find yourself stuck without a vehicle.  

Here are some examples of when you’re most likely to breakdown: 

Seasonal variations:  

Breakdowns are typically more common during the winter months as cold weather can put additional stress on a vehicle’s battery and mechanical components, leading to a higher likelihood of breakdowns. 

However, both extreme cold and hot temperatures can increase the risk of vehicle breakdowns. For example, in the summer breakdowns can be caused by overheating vehicles and tyre blowouts. 

Rush hour traffic: 

It’s not surprising that breakdowns are more likely to occur during rush hour traffic when roads are congested, and vehicles are running at low speeds or idling.  

This can lead to overheating and other mechanical issues. 

Neglected maintenance: 

Failure to adhere to a regular maintenance schedule significantly increases the risk of breakdowns as overlooking oil changes, brake inspections, and tyre rotations can lead to mechanical failures.

Tyre issues:

Flat tyres and blowouts also contribute to breakdown statistics. Therefore, proper tyre maintenance, including checking tyre pressure and tread depth, can reduce the likelihood of tyre-related breakdowns.

Choosing the right motor breakdown insurance 

When selecting motor breakdown insurance, it’s important to understand that there is no one policy that is suitable for every individual’s needs as all policies differ slightly, as do personal requirements.

So, it’s essential to consider your specific needs, budget and driving habits before making a decision.

Here are some factors to keep in mind:

• Coverage level: Determine the level of coverage you require. Basic roadside assistance may be sufficient for some, while others may opt for more comprehensive coverage with added perks.
• Cost: Compare quotes from different providers to find the best value for your money. Keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always provide the necessary coverage.
• Additional services: Consider any additional services or benefits offered by the policy, such as European coverage, home start, and alternative transportation options.
• Exclusions and limits: Pay attention to any exclusions or limitations within the policy, as well as any excess fees you may need to pay when making a claim.

The bottom line

Motor breakdown insurance is often considered a valuable safety net for UK motorists, offering peace of mind, convenience, and financial protection in the event of a breakdown.

With various coverage options available, including roadside help and vehicle recovery, it can provide the confidence that you can continue your journeys knowing that help is on hand and you’ve already taken care of the finances (minus your arranged excess fee).

In the end, having motor breakdown insurance can make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major disruption when your vehicle encounters unexpected problems on the road.

So, if you’re looking for a motor breakdown insurance policy that not only offers a variety of cover types and could even save you money in the long run, Save More Money might just have the right option for you from £24.88 a year.

Are you a taxi or private hire driver looking to save more money? See our Hire and Reward Breakdown Insurance which offers cover from £49.77 a year.