By John Healy of Healy Insurances

A large number of insurers now include breakdown rescue or recovery on their private car insurance policies.

It is important to check your own terms as there could be limitations as to the age of vehicle that can get this cover. Also, some insurers only give breakdown with “comprehensive cover”.

Usually the following kinds of breakdown would be covered:

Mechanical breakdown, fire, theft or attempted theft, malicious damage, punctures that need help to fix or to replace a wheel, lost keys, stolen keys and keys broken in the lock or keys locked into the car.
Cover applies in the 32 counties of Ireland and in England, Scotland and Wales. There may be restrictions to cover for finishing your journey if it’s outside Ireland.

The following benefits are normally included: 

Roadside assistance:

The insurer will send a competent repairer to help you at the scene and usually provide one hour’s labour.

Towing:

Cover is provided to tow the car to the nearest motor garage or to your own garage.

Finishing the journey:

Transport can be arranged to reach the final destination. There are also benefits such as accommodation while you are waiting for repairs to be finished.

Theft of your car:

A replacement car can be provided if your car has been stolen and not recovered within 24 hours.

A claim under the breakdown section will not affect your No Claims Bonus.

It is crucial to check your own policy wording as some insurers will only cover breakdown away from your private residence. Some insurers impose maximum ages for vehicles that can benefit from breakdown cover.