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What’s Included in a Breakdown Cover Policy?

Choosing a breakdown policy for your car can be a great option, especially if your car is older or more susceptible to faults on the road. Breakdown cover can benefit both old and new cars, and give you peace of mind if you ever find yourself stranded far from home. Before purchasing a breakdown cover policy, you should make yourself aware of what is and isn’t included to ensure you’re getting the most out of your policy.

Our guide will cover what you can expect from your breakdown policy here at ALA, as well as what isn’t included, and the level of breakdown cover you should choose. We will also explore whether breakdown cover is the best choice for you, as well as answer some frequently asked questions.

What Can I Expect from a Breakdown Policy?

What’s included in your breakdown policy depends on the breakdown cover provider and the level of cover you choose. All breakdown policies are different, which is why looking around for the best policy and quote is essential. At ALA, we offer breakdown cover on four levels: Roadside Assistance, Roadside and Recovery, Total UK and Total UK and Europe. As standard, all breakdown cover policies include:

  • Roadside repair: if the car breaks down more than one mile from the home address, we will cover call-out fees and labour costs.
  • Recovery of the vehicle: if the vehicle cannot be repaired at the roadside, we will pay the cost of taking it, you (the driver) and any passengers to a local garage.
  • Caravan or trailers included: any attached caravan or trailer that is no more than three metres in length will be entitled to the same service as the broken-down vehicle
  • Messages: we will pass messages onto family and colleagues to let them know about the breakdown

Higher levels of cover cost more, but they include other benefits, including home start, alternative travel or accommodation. You can find out more about what each of our policies include here.

repairer transports car that is broken down

What Isn’t Included in a Breakdown Policy?

Like most policies, there are restrictions and elements that won’t be insured. At ALA, we won’t insure:

  • Any costs of servicing that is not arranged by the Breakdown Control Centre
  • Any costs other than the recovery of the vehicle as a result of misfuelling
  • The cost of any parts, components or materials used to repair your vehicle
  • Any ferry charges, congestion charges or toll fees
  • Any request for service if the vehicle cannot be reached due to snow, mud or flooding
  • Any request for service if the vehicle has no traction other than as a result of a breakdown
  • Any more than two call-outs in a single period of insurance (only relevant to roadside level of cover).

There are other restrictions to be aware of before purchasing a breakdown cover policy, such as a maximum of seven passengers being transported by the vehicle, and the driver must have taken all necessary steps to try and prevent a breakdown. You can read more about our breakdown cover restrictions in our roadside policy document here.

Which Level of Breakdown Cover Should I Choose?

The level of breakdown cover you choose depends on several factors, such as your budget and what you need from your breakdown policy. Our four breakdown policy levels cover a range of scenarios, so it is important to read through the policy documents to choose the best option for you.

If you only need basic roadside assistance and local garage recovery, then our roadside assistance policy might be the best choice for you. If you need more comprehensive coverage, such as home start and cover across Europe, our robust Total UK and Europe policy would be best suited.

If you’re worried about your budget, get yourself a bespoke quote on our website today.

mechanic performing maintenance on a car battery

Is Breakdown Cover Right for Me?

Deciding whether or not to opt for breakdown cover depends on your personal preferences. The benefits of having a breakdown policy in place are:

  • Roadside assistance: get professional help quickly if your car breaks down, whether due to a flat battery, puncture, or mechanical fault.
  • On-the-spot repairs: many issues can be fixed at the roadside, helping you get back on the move without delay.
  • Vehicle recovery: if your car can’t be repaired at the scene, it can be towed to a nearby garage for further inspection.
  • Home start cover: perfect if your car breaks down on your driveway
  • National recovery: be covered for breakdowns anywhere in the UK, with recovery to your chosen destination.
  • Onward travel options: depending on your policy, you may receive a courtesy car, alternative transport, or overnight accommodation if your journey can’t continue.
  • Peace of mind: avoid the stress, inconvenience, and potential cost of being stranded on the roadside.

Ready to get covered? Enquire further about our breakdown cover policies here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Breakdown Cover Usually Include Roadside Assistance?

Yes, many policies include roadside assistance as standard; it is included in our basic roadside policy.

Are There Any Common Exclusions in Most Breakdown Cover Policies?

There are exclusions that many policy providers have in place to prevent fraudulent claims. These restrictions include poor maintenance, as this will make a vehicle more susceptible to breakdowns. Pre-existing faults that aren’t declared when you buy a policy or make a claim will not be covered, and any repairs due to human errors such as misfuelling will not be covered, however recovery of the vehicle will be. Different policy providers will have different restrictions, so it is important to be aware of the policy documents.

Do Breakdown Cover Policies Typically Cover Home Start?

More robust breakdown cover policies will include home start; more basic policies usually don’t cover home start.

Are Passengers Covered for Accommodation if the Car Breaks Down?

Yes, passengers will usually be included in accommodation costs if they are needed. Our Total UK and Total UK and Europe policies cover passengers.

When Does My Breakdown Cover Start?

Breakdown cover starts immediately at ALA.

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